10 Best Free Family Events in South Bay LA This Weekend

Finding fun, free things to do with kids in South Bay Los Angeles doesn't have to be hard. From the beaches of Manhattan Beach to the parks of Torrance, there are incredible free family events happening every single weekend. We've rounded up the 10 best recurring free events that South Bay families love.

1. Farmers Markets Across South Bay

South Bay is blessed with some of the best farmers markets in LA County. The Manhattan Beach Farmers Market (Tuesdays, 11am-4pm) along Valley Drive is a neighborhood institution where kids can sample fresh fruit and watch street performers. The Torrance Certified Farmers Market (Tuesdays and Saturdays) at Wilson Park brings live music and a relaxed vibe that's perfect for families. Redondo Beach also hosts a market on Thursdays at Veterans Park. Pack a blanket and make it a picnic - farmers markets are one of the best free family activities in South Bay.

2. Beach Bonfire Nights

Few things feel more like a South Bay tradition than a bonfire on the beach. Dockweiler State Beach is the go-to spot with its free fire pits available on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early on weekends (before 3pm) to snag a pit. Bring marshmallows, hot dogs, and blankets. The kids can play in the sand while you watch planes land at LAX overhead - it's genuinely magical at sunset. Free parking is available in the lot off Vista Del Mar.

3. Hermosa Beach Pier Plaza Concerts

During summer months, Hermosa Beach hosts free concerts at Pier Plaza that are perfect for families. The summer concert series runs from June through August, typically on Sunday afternoons. Grab some food from the nearby restaurants on Pier Avenue, set up a chair, and let the kids dance to live music. The beach is steps away for a post-concert swim. Check the city's events calendar for the latest schedule.

4. South Bay Bicycle Trail

The Marvin Braude Bike Trail (aka The Strand) stretches 22 miles along the coast from Pacific Palisades to Torrance Beach. The South Bay section from Redondo Beach through Hermosa and Manhattan Beach is flat, paved, and perfect for family bike rides. Rent bikes at any of the numerous shops along the Strand or bring your own. Stop at the Manhattan Beach pier for a snack or detour to the sand volleyball courts to watch a game. It's the quintessential free South Bay family activity.

5. Library Story Times

The LA County Library system offers free story times for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers throughout South Bay. The Manhattan Beach Library, Hermosa Beach Library, and Redondo Beach Main Library all run weekly programs that include stories, songs, and simple crafts. These are especially great for younger kids (ages 0-5) and a wonderful way to meet other local parents. Most sessions run on weekday mornings - check your local branch for specific times.

6. Polliwog Park Playground & Duck Pond

Polliwog Park in Manhattan Beach is a South Bay gem. This 18-acre park features an amphitheater (home to summer concerts), a duck pond where kids love to watch the wildlife, two playgrounds, basketball courts, and walking trails. The park hosts the annual Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair and regular free movie nights in summer. Pack a lunch and spend the whole afternoon - there's enough here to keep kids entertained for hours.

7. Tide Pool Exploration at Abalone Cove

For a nature-filled family adventure, head to Abalone Cove Shoreline Park in Rancho Palos Verdes. The tide pools here are some of the best in Southern California, teeming with sea anemones, hermit crabs, starfish, and small fish. Visit during low tide for the best experience (check tide charts before you go). There's a small parking fee, but the tide pool exploration itself is completely free. Wear water shoes and bring a bucket for temporary observation - just remember to put everything back.

8. El Segundo Art Walks

El Segundo Main Street hosts periodic art walks where galleries open their doors, local artists display work, and street performers entertain. These free community events are family-friendly and give kids exposure to local art. Many of the shops along Main Street offer kid-friendly activities during art walks. The vibrant downtown area also has great ice cream shops and cafes for a treat afterward.

9. Hopkins Wilderness Park

Tucked away in Redondo Beach, Hopkins Wilderness Park is 11 acres of wild, natural habitat with trails, a small lake, and wildlife observation areas. It feels like you've left the city entirely. The park offers free nature programs on select weekends, including bird watching walks and nature crafts for kids. It's a peaceful alternative to the more crowded beach parks and a great way to introduce kids to local ecology.

10. Redondo Beach Seaside Lagoon (Select Free Days)

While the Seaside Lagoon in Redondo Beach normally charges admission, they offer several free community days throughout the season. This heated saltwater lagoon is sheltered from waves, making it perfect for younger swimmers. There's a sandy beach area, playground, and volleyball courts. Follow the City of Redondo Beach social media for announcements on free admission days - they fill up fast, so arrive early.

Find More Free Events This Weekend

These are just the recurring favorites - there are dozens more free family events happening in South Bay every week. From pop-up markets to park festivals, community cleanups to outdoor movie nights, there's always something free to do with the family.

Tips for Enjoying Free Events with Kids

• Arrive early - Free events get crowded, especially in summer. Getting there 15-30 minutes before start time guarantees better parking and seating.
• Pack snacks and water - While many events have food vendors, bringing your own saves money and keeps hangry meltdowns at bay.
• Bring sun protection - Sunscreen, hats, and a pop-up shade tent are essentials for outdoor South Bay events.
• Check our events page - We update our events listing daily with new free activities in South Bay.