Introduction to Free Fun in Southern California
Well, it’s officially spring, so it’s time to get out of the house and do some fun stuff, right? But what if you just paid your taxes, so you’re broke? Well, here’s a list of fun things you can do that cost nothing! Enjoy. (And here’s a list of things to do that are always free) The California Citrus State Historic Park in Riverside will host events the Third Annual Citrus Festival on April 5. (File Photo by David Allen, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin/SCNG)
April Events
April 5 — 3rd Annual Citrus Festival. Riverside
Spring fun at the California Citrus State Historic Park will include live music, citrus tastings, kids’ activities, cooking and painting demonstrations and more. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Parking shuttles available. 9400 Dufferin Ave., Riverside. californiacitruspark.com
April 5-6 — L.A. Vegan Street Fair, North Hollywood
Explore the 150 vendors and fun at the 10th annual vegan street fair. The event, featuring a live DJ, runs 11 a.m.-7 p.m. both days. Get your free ticket at eventbrite.com/o/vegan-street-fair-9035601544. 11223 Chandler Blvd., North Hollywood.
April 6 — Music and Dance of Spain, Cypress
Ecos de España: This all-ages, interactive performance will explore the multicultural roots of Hispanic performing arts. Children over 5 welcome. After the show, a workshop will teach attendees how to play castanets. The Cypress Library, 5331 Orange Ave., Cypress. 714-826-0350. ocpl.org/libraries/cypress
April 6 — Bowers Museum, Santa Ana
11-3. The Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival at the Bowers Museum’s Key Courtyard will feature live performances, face painting and snacks. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana. 714.567.3600 bowers.org/index.php/programs/festivals/japanese-cherry-blossom
April 6 — Riverside Art Museum and The Cheech
Free admission to the public and no tickets required as part of their Free First Sundays program. (Also free every First Thursday as part of the Riverside ArtsWalk.) Noon-5 p.m. 3425 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside. riversideartmuseum.org
Mid-April Fun
April 12 — Family Art, Laguna Beach
Create artwork together with instruction from LOCA artists at the Laguna Beach library. Each month, a new art project will be introduced and everyone will have fun creating their own unique art piece. All materials included. 2-3 p.m. 363 Glenneyre St., Laguna Beach. 949-497-1733. ocpl.libcal.com/event/13339159
April 12-13 — Cowboy Festival, Santa Clarita
Main festival general admission is free; other events have fees. Learn about life on the American Frontier with live performances and more. Vendors with Western gear and chuck wagons will sell barbecue. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. William S. Hart Park, 24151 Newhall Ave., Santa Clarita. cowboyfestival.org
April 13 — Cypress. Music of New Orleans
Explore the multicultural roots of New Orleans jazz music with the Jazzy Ash Trio. This is an interactive performance for all ages. 3-4 p.m. Cypress Library 5331 Orange Ave., Cypress. 714-826-0350. ocpl.libcal.com/event/14315637
Late April Events
April 19 — Free National Park Day
For the kickoff of the annual National Park Week, which for 2025 will be held April 19-27, the park service is offering free admission to its parks and monuments on Saturday, April 19. This can save you $50 or even more, but I suggest you get to the park really early. Like, really early. Learn more: nps.gov/subjects/npscelebrates/national-park-week.htm
April 19 — Japanese Taiko Drumming. Northridge
Learn about Japanese Taiko Drumming through performance and discussions of the history and cultural significance of taiko drums. Audience members will be able to try the drums themselves. 3:30 p.m. Northridge Branch Library, 9051 Darby Ave., Northridge 818-886-3640. lapl.org/whats-on/events/la-made-presents-japanese-taiko-drumming-1
April 24-27 — Southern California Spring Garden Show, Costa Mesa
This is the 35th annual show with plants, sculptures, fountains, exhibits and tons of vendors. Located at South Coast Plaza, in the Crate & Barrel & Macy’s wings. Walk over the Garden Bridgeway for shops and eateries. Find a tour of the garden and sculpture areas online, plus a guided palm tour hosted by the Sherman Library and Gardens. 3333 Bristol St., Costa Mesa. southcoastplaza.com/gardenshow/
April 26 — Cello with Chelsea, Cypress
Cellist Chelsea Wong will present an interactive performance for music lovers of all ages. 3-4 p.m. The Cypress Library, 5331 Orange Avenue, Cypress. 714-826-0350. ocpl.libcal.com/event/14315638
April 27 — Fiesta Broadway 2025, Downtown Los Angeles
This Cinco de Mayo event includes two stages with live music, Lucha Libre wrestling matches, Latin food, health resources and product samples. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 111 N Broadway, Los Angeles. fiesta-broadway.com
April 30 — See “Wicked” movie, Hollywood
The Oscar-nominated movie will be screened for free from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at the Frances Howard Goldwyn — Hollywood library. 1623 Ivar Ave.. Los Angeles. 323-856-8260. lapl.org/whats-on/events/movie-screening-wicked
Conclusion
With so many free events happening in Southern California in April, there’s no excuse to stay indoors. From citrus festivals to cowboy festivals, and from music performances to movie screenings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy without breaking the bank.
FAQs
Q: Are all events listed completely free?
A: Yes, all events listed are free to attend, although some may offer additional activities or services for a fee.
Q: Do I need to register or get tickets for any of the events?
A: Some events may require registration or tickets, which are also free. Be sure to check the event details to confirm.
Q: Are the events suitable for all ages?
A: Most events are suitable for all ages, but some may have specific age restrictions or recommendations. Check the event details to confirm.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks to the events?
A: Some events may allow outside food and drinks, while others may have vendors selling food and drinks. Check the event details to confirm.
