July Activities for Riverside Families - 2026 Event Calendar
July is here, and Riverside is full of activities for children! From summer reading and fireworks to splash pads and celebrating America’s birthday… there’s lots to do to have fun with your kids this summer! I've pulled together everything into one list so it’s super easy to find what’s going on every day in Riverside, and you don’t have to go hunting for things to do in Riverside with your kids!
A couple of quick notes: I do my best to keep this list accurate, but always recommend double-checking with the host before you head out… a quick look at their website or social media can save you a wasted trip.
Have an event I missed? Submit it here. Looking for another month? I'm publishing guides for all of 2026 — find them all here.
Here’s what’s going on in Riverside in July!
Wednesday, July 1, 2026 in Riverside with Kids
🆓🎈Noteworthy Puppets: Holiday Hijinks | 3pm | Main Library - we LOVE Noteworthy Puppets - so well done!
🆓⭐ Make it and Take it: Patriotic Shooting Star | All Day | Arlanza Library
🆓📚 Teen Zone | 3:30pm | La Sierra Library
🆓📚 Preschool Storytime | 10am | La Sierra Library
🆓📖 Family Storytime | 11am | Casa Blanca Library
🆓🎨 Preschool Storytime | 11am | Eastside Library at Lincoln Park
🆓🌙 Twilight Tales | 5pm | Main Library
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🍓County of Riverside Farmers Market | 8:30am-1:30pm | Corner of Lemon and 10th Street, Downtown Riverside
🆓🐾Pawsitive Readers Program | 3:30-4:30pm | RCDAS Shelter in Jurupa Valley
🆓🎆 Patriotic Concert and Drone Show | 6pm (drone show at 9pm) | Fairmount Park Bandshell | A patriotic concert with live music by the Convertibles, followed by a drone show lighting up the night sky. Early arrival suggested.
🏊🏿🆓 Free Swim Day | 1–3pm | Islander Park Pool | Swimming at this location is free today. Pools are available for open swim all summer throughout Riverside for a small fee.
🏊🏽 Rec Swim + Night Swim | 1–3pm and 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
Thursday, July 2, 2026 — Family Fun in Riverside
🆓🦎 Thor's Reptile Fun | 3pm | Casa Blanca Library
🆓🎬 🍌 Movie & Craft: Minions | 3:30pm | Marcy Library
🆓 🇺🇲 Patriotic Grab & Go | All Day | Marcy Library
🆓📖 Baby Bee Storytime| 9:30am | Main Library
🆓📚 Bilingual Storytime | 11am | Arlanza Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Orange Terrace Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Eastside Library at Lincoln Park
🆓✏️ Writing Boxes | 4pm | La Sierra Library
🆓🇺🇸🎉 UCR ARTS Celebrates America 250| 6:00 – 9:00 PM | UCR ARTS |See a rare 19th-century newspaper copy of the Declaration of Independence, make a political button, and explore current exhibitions
🆓🎨 Going Green – Artswalk | 6-9pm | Museum of Riverside booth at Main Street & University Avenue | Stop by to chat about the Museum's new green building and decorate your own reusable bag in honor of International Plastic Bag Free Day!
🇺🇸 250th Independence Day Activities | 10am-12pm | Jensen-Alvarado Historic Ranch and Museum
🆓📚 Storytime at the Frugal Frigate | 3:00-3:30pm | The Frugal Frigate children’s bookstore in Redlands | Free, all ages welcome
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🆓🎨 Riverside Artswalk | 6-9pm | Downtown Riverside | Monthly celebration of arts and culture featuring 20+ downtown venues and 120+ artisan vendors on Main Street.
🏊🏽 Rec Night Swim | 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
Friday, July 3, 2026 — Things to Do in Riverside with Your Family
Note: No Lunch at the Park/Library service today due to Independence Day weekend!
Riverside Public Library closed
🏃 Ryan Bonaminio Parkrun| 7:30am | Ryan Bonaminio Park, Mt. Rubidoux | Free | Weekly 5K walk/run, all ages & fitness levels welcome
🥕 Farmers Market | 10am-3pm | Farmhouse Collective
🍊 Free Outdoor Tours at Citrus State Historic Park | 10am | Citrus State Historic Park | Tours are free, parking $7 per car (I would call to confirm their hours today due to Independence Day weekend!)
🆓🎵 Concert for Heroes | 7pm | Riverside National Cemetery | An evening of music and fireworks. Bring a picnic!
🆓🎺 A Star-Spangled Evening of Patriotic Pops | 8pm | Redlands Bowl | Patriotic music with full orchestra and choir. Free admission — picnics welcome and part of the fun, all ages welcome!
Saturday, July 4, 2026 — Family-Friendly Activities in Riverside
Happy Independence Day and 250th Birthday of the USA! In addition to lots of fun activities happening today, keep in mind that places like the Riverside Public Library, government offices, and some stores and locations are closed today!
🇺🇸 250th Independence Day Activities | 6-9pm | Rancho Jurupa Regional Park
🚂🎆 Red, White & Rails | 10am-4pm | Southern California Railway Museum | Free admission and parking, open exhibits, scavenger hunts, crafts, toy play, and lawn games. Historic ride tickets $9-13. RSVP recommended.
🆓❤️🐾 VOLUNTEER: Furry Friends & Fireworks | 8-10pm | Riverside Animal Shelter | Read quietly to shelter dogs and cats to help comfort them during fireworks. Ages 10 and up with an adult. Advance registration required.
⭐🎨 🆓 Home Depot Kids Workshop: Go Kart (patriotic)| 9am-12pm (or while supplies last) | Free, sign up online
🆓📚 Storytime at the Frugal Frigate | 10-10:30am | The Frugal Frigate children’s bookstore in Redlands (this is listed on their web site as still happening today but I’d call ahead to save a trip in case it’s cancelled for 4th of July)
🍓Downtown Riverside Farmers Market | 8am-1pm | Main Street at 10th in Downtown Riverside (by City Hall) (I would check to confirm this is happening today due to Independence Day weekend!)
🍊 Free Outdoor Tours at Citrus State Historic Park | 10am | Citrus State Historic Park | Tours are free, parking $7 per car (I would call to confirm their hours today due to Independence Day weekend!)
🆓🎆 4th of July Riverside Fireworks Spectacular| 9pm | La Sierra Park & Mt. Rubidoux | A dazzling fireworks display honoring Independence Day, at two locations. Tune into FM 99.9 for patriotic music to accompany the show.
🎆🎪 Front Row Fireworks 2026 | 5-9:30pm | Evergreen Memorial Historic Cemetery | Watch the Mt. Rubidoux fireworks from up close and a festive (crowded!) atmosphere with a band, balloon artist, face painter, bounce houses, a scavenger hunt, and food vendors. $10 general admission; kids 12 & under and military (with ID) free. $10 parking.
🛍️👧 Kids Market: City of Eastvale's "Fourthfest" | 12-5pm | Eleanor Roosevelt High School, Eastvale | A kids market where children run their own booths to sell, and anyone can come shop. Part of the Fourthfest celebration. Check-in 11am-12pm.
🆓✈️ America's 250th Birthday Bash | 9am-3pm | Riverside Municipal Airport | A family-friendly patriotic celebration with historic warbirds on display, a classic car show, skydivers, games, bounce houses, and activities throughout the day.
Sunday, July 5, 2026 in Riverside with Kids
🆓🖼️ Free Summer Sundays | 12:00 – 5:00 PM | Riverside Art Museum / the Cheech | RSVP for confirmed entry
🆓🇺🇸 Patriotic Tours – Heritage House | 10am-2pm | Heritage House | Guided first-floor tours celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary, with lively music in the gardens decked out in red, white, and blue. (Tours are best for older kids/teens… little ones will likely get bored, and you’re not supposed to touch items).
🆓📚 Fourth of July Storytime | 12pm | Barnes & Noble Galleria at Tyler | Storytime featuring America, I'm So Glad You Were Born: Celebrating the Country We Love, plus an activity. All ages welcome.
🎨 🆓 TEENS: free Michaels craft event: Fan Fanatics Banners and Bracelets 1:00-3:00pm | Michaels Craft Stores | sign up online , must be 13+
🥕 Tyler Galleria Farmers Market| 8:30am-1pm | Tyler Mall parking lot by Barnes & Noble
🍊 Free Outdoor Tours at Citrus State Historic Park | 10am | Citrus State Historic Park | Tours are free, parking $7 per car
🌿 UCR Botanic Gardens Kids’ Activities| Free admission, parking $2/hr | 10am Storytime for ages 3–8; 11am-1pm Origami for ages 4+ - we made origami pinwheels a few weeks ago and the teacher was so kind and gentle!
Monday, July 6, 2026 — Things to Do in Riverside with Your Family
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🏊🏽 Rec Swim | 1–3pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
🌿 Origami in the UCR Botanic Gardens| 8am - 11am | Free admission, parking $2/hr. The UCR Botanic Gardens are worth visiting anytime, but when we came a few weeks ago we made origami pinwheels at the origami station and the teacher was so kind and gentle… it was a very sweet little added bonus to our visit!
🆓⚽ World Tournament Watch Party | 12pm & 5pm | Chick-fil-A Central Riverside | Watch the tournament live on a big screen with a live DJ, family activities, giveaways, and raffles. No purchase necessary.
Tuesday, July 7, 2026 — Family Fun in Riverside
🆓🫧 Full Spectrum Bubble Show| 3pm | Arlanza Library
🆓🌱 TEENS: Seed Art | 4pm | Orange Terrace Library
🆓📖 Preschool Storytime | 9:30am | Main Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Marcy Library
🆓🧸 Toddler Play | 11am | Arlanza Library
🆓🎨 Preschool Playdate | 11am | Arlington Library
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🆓🎤 The Filharmonic | 8pm | Redlands Bowl | An LA-based a cappella crew of Filipino-American singers. Free admission — picnics welcome and part of the fun, all ages welcome!
🏊🏽 Rec Night Swim | 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
🆓🎸 Summer Concert Series: B.Y.O.B. | 7-9pm | Canyon Crest Towne Centre | Live rock music from the '60s & '70s. Bring a lawn chair!
Wednesday, July 8, 2026 — Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Riverside
🆓🌸 DIY Flower Bookmarks | 11am | Marcy Library
🆓🧱 Lego Build Program | 11:30am | La Sierra Library (Lunch at the Library Performance)
🆓📚 Preschool Storytime | 10am | La Sierra Library
🆓📖 Family Storytime | 11am | Casa Blanca Library
🆓🎨 Preschool Storytime | 11am | Eastside Library at Lincoln Park
🆓🌙 Twilight Tales | 5pm | Main Library
🆓💦 Pop In Playtime | 9:30-11am | The Grove Community Church | Summer playtime with wet and dry activities for kids and fellowship for parents. Bring a swimsuit, swim shoes, and towel.
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🍓County of Riverside Farmers Market | 8:30am-1:30pm | Corner of Lemon and 10th Street, Downtown Riverside
🆓🐾Pawsitive Readers Program | 3:30-4:30pm | RCDAS Shelter in Jurupa Valley
🆓🎶 Summer Fun Concerts in the Park: Bumptown | 6-9pm | Fairmount Park | Old school and Latin music. Bring lawn chairs and enjoy family-friendly fun.
🏊🏿🆓 Free Swim Day | 1–3pm | Arlington Park Pool | Swimming at this location is free today. Pools are available for open swim all summer throughout Riverside for a small fee.
🏊🏽 Rec Swim + Night Swim | 1–3pm and 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
Thursday, July 9, 2026 — Family Activities in Riverside
🆓🐾 Doodlebug: Wild About Animals | 11am | Arlington Library
🆓 🎲 Board Games Day | 4pm | Marcy Library
🆓📖 Baby Bee Storytime| 9:30am | Main Library
🆓📚 Bilingual Storytime | 11am | Arlanza Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Orange Terrace Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Eastside Library at Lincoln Park
🆓✏️ Writing Boxes | 4pm | La Sierra Library
🆓🎭 Shakespeare in the Park: Twelfth Night | 7pm | California Citrus State Historic Park | Free Shakespeare in the Park featuring a preshow by Youth Shakespeare Theatre Camp 2026. No specific age requirement to attend, but kids 10 and up may enjoy it the most. Parking here is usually $7 unless you signed up for the free state park pass.
🎭🎵 Miss Nelson is Missing | 7pm | RCC Landis Performing Arts Center | A musical based on the beloved children's book. Rated G, all ages (everyone needs a ticket). Tickets $15-20.
🆓📚 Storytime at the Frugal Frigate | 3:00-3:30pm | The Frugal Frigate children’s bookstore in Redlands | Free, all ages welcome
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🏊🏽 Rec Night Swim | 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
Friday, July 10, 2026 — What to Do with Kids in Riverside
🆓☀️ Summer Suncatchers | 4pm | Arlington Library
🆓🌳 Bloom & Grow | 11am | Eastside Library at Lincoln Park
🆓💃 Aztec Culture & Dance | 2pm | La Sierra Library
🆓🌿 Family Storytime | 9:30am | Ameal Moore Nature Center
🆓🐝 Baby Bee Storytime | 11am | Arlington Library
🆓♟️ Chess Club | 2-4pm | Orange Terrace Library
🆓🎭 Shakespeare in the Park: Twelfth Night | 7pm | California Citrus State Historic Park | Free Shakespeare in the Park featuring a preshow by Youth Shakespeare Theatre Camp 2026. No specific age requirement to attend, but kids 10 and up may enjoy it the most. Parking here is usually $7 unless you signed up for the free state park pass.
🎭🎵 Miss Nelson is Missing | 7pm | RCC Landis Performing Arts Center | A musical based on the beloved children's book. Rated G, all ages (everyone needs a ticket). Tickets $15-20.
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🥕 Farmers Market | 10am-3pm | Farmhouse Collective |
🍊 Free Outdoor Tours at Citrus State Historic Park | 10am | Citrus State Historic Park | Tours are free, parking $7 per car
🆓💃 Leyenda Folklorico | 8pm | Redlands Bowl | Folklorico dance and mariachi music. Free admission — picnics welcome and part of the fun, all ages welcome!
🎬🆓 Movies in the Park: G-Force | Dusk (~7:30–8pm) | Reid Park| Free outdoor movie night — bring blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks!
🆓🍦Ice Cream Social | 11am | Ameal Moore Nature Center
🎶🌊The Prince of Egypt: The Musical | 7pm | Elevate Life Church | faith-based production of the Prince of Egypt, tickets required. Good for big kids/teens!
Saturday, July 11, 2026 — Family-Friendly Activities in Riverside
🆓🎪 Christopher's Circus Acts & More | 3pm | Lincoln Park
🏃 Ryan Bonaminio Parkrun| 7:30am | Ryan Bonaminio Park, Mt. Rubidoux | Free | Weekly 5K walk/run, all ages & fitness levels welcome
🆓🎲 TEENS:D & D | 3-5:45pm | Casa Blanca Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 9:30am | Main Library
🆓❤️🌍 Serve Saturday | 9am-12:30pm | Mead Valley Community Center, Perris | Pack meals for ministry partners in Uganda with the Grove Community Church. Open to all ages — sign up for a shift!
🆓🎭Shakespeare in the Park: Twelfth Night | 7pm | California Citrus State Historic Park | Free Shakespeare in the Park featuring a preshow by Youth Shakespeare Theatre Camp 2026. No specific age requirement to attend, but kids 10 and up may enjoy it the most. Parking here is usually $7 unless you signed up for the free state park pass.
⭐ Stargazing | 1 hour after sunset | Rancho Jurupa Regional Park
📚🎨 Kids Graphic Novel Book Club: Last Day Pool Party | 1-2pm | Cellar Door Bookstore
🎬📚 Screening of Matilda | 7-9pm | Cellar Door Bookstore
🎨 🆓 JC Penney Free Kids Zone Workshop: Bug or Safari Animal Magnet| 11am-12pm | JC Penney
🆓📚 Storytime at the Frugal Frigate | 10-10:30am | The Frugal Frigate children’s bookstore in Redlands
🎨 🆓 FREE Michaels Kids Club: Wooden Space Pals (or Make a Junk Journal?) 10am-12pm | Michaels Craft Stores | sign up online (the web site is a little unclear on the craft - they say it’s Junk Journal but link to Wooden space Pals. I’d call the store if it matters to you!
🍓Downtown Riverside Farmers Market | 8am-1pm | Main Street at 10th in Downtown Riverside (by City Hall)
🍊 Free Outdoor Tours at Citrus State Historic Park | 10am | Citrus State Historic Park | Tours are free, parking $7 per car
🆓🎒 24th Annual Backpack Giveaway and Resource Fair | 8am-12pm | Bordwell Park | Free backpacks filled with school supplies for K-12 students, plus community resources, arts and crafts, and vendors. Child must be present to receive a backpack; supplies limited, first come first served.
🔬🏖️STEAM Summer Activities| 10am-3pm | San Bernardino County Museum in Redlands | Fossil Cart, STEAM Lab, Collage Extravaganza (Tissue Paper Collage, Mosaics, Tessellation Quilt). + STEAM Outdoors: Beach Life at 10:30 + 11:30am (space limited.) Admission $5-10
🛍️👧 Kids Market: Jurupa Valley's 15th Anniversary | 4-8pm | City Hall, Jurupa Valley | A kids market where children run their own booths to sell, and anyone can come shop. Part of Jurupa Valley's 15th anniversary celebration.
🎶🌊The Prince of Egypt: The Musical| 2pm and 7pm | Elevate Life Church | faith-based production of the Prince of Egypt, tickets required, Good for big kids/teens!
Sunday, July 12, 2026 — Things to Do in Riverside with Your Family
🆓🖼️ Free Summer Sundays | 12:00 – 5:00 PM | Riverside Art Museum / the Cheech | RSVP for confirmed entry | today is also “Cheech’s” 80th birthday, so there will be a special event happening too (food trucks, activities, etc.) Not sure how kid-friendly it is!
🆓📚 Madeline Storytime | 12pm | Barnes & Noble Galleria at Tyler
⭐🚂 🆓 Riverside Live Steamers Public Run Day | 10am-3pm | Free steam-powered train rides at Hunter Hobby Park
🥕 Tyler Galleria Farmers Market| 8:30am-1pm | Tyler Mall parking lot by Barnes & Noble
🍊 Free Outdoor Tours at Citrus State Historic Park | 10am | Citrus State Historic Park | Tours are free, parking $7 per car
🎶🌊The Prince of Egypt: The Musical| 2pm | Elevate Life Church | faith-based production of the Prince of Egypt, tickets required, Good for big kids/teens!
Monday, July 13, 2026 — Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Riverside
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🏊🏽 Rec Swim | 1–3pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
🌿 Origami in the UCR Botanic Gardens| 8am - 11am | Free admission, parking $2/hr. The UCR Botanic Gardens are worth visiting anytime, but when we came a few weeks ago we made origami pinwheels at the origami station and the teacher was so kind and gentle… it was a very sweet little added bonus to our visit!
Tuesday, July 14, 2026 in Riverside with Kids
🆓🎭 Franklin Haynes Marionettes | 2pm | Orange Terrace Library
🆓🌱 TEENS: Plant the Seeds for Success: Building Life Skills | 3pm | Arlanza Library
🆓📖 Preschool Storytime | 9:30am | Main Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Marcy Library
🆓🧸 Toddler Play | 11am | Arlanza Library
🆓🎨 Preschool Playdate | 11am | Arlington Library
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🆓🎶 The Sweet Caroline Tour starring Jay White | 8pm | Redlands Bowl | A Neil Diamond tribute show. Free admission — picnics welcome and part of the fun, all ages welcome!
🏊🏽 Rec Night Swim | 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
🆓🐄 Cow Appreciation Day | 7am-7pm | Chick-fil-A Central Riverside | Dress like a cow and get a free entrée! No purchase necessary.
🆓🎸 Summer Concert Series: Mike Stags and the Soul Band | 7-9pm | Canyon Crest Towne Centre | Live rock covers. Bring a lawn chair!
Wednesday, July 15, 2026 — Family Activities in Riverside
🆓🤹 Michael Raynor: Found Object Juggling Show | 11am | Marcy Library
🆓 🟪 DIY Stress Balls: They're Really Neat Oh! | 3pm | Main Library
🆓📚 Preschool Storytime | 10am | La Sierra Library
🆓📖 Family Storytime | 11am | Casa Blanca Library
🆓🎨 Preschool Storytime | 11am | Eastside Library at Lincoln Park
🆓🌙 Twilight Tales | 5pm | Main Library
🆓💦 Pop In Playtime | 9:30-11am | The Grove Community Church | Summer playtime with wet and dry activities for kids and fellowship for parents. Bring a swimsuit, swim shoes, and towel.
🧺 Let's Do Laundry the 19th Century Way | 10am-12pm | Jensen-Alvarado Historic Ranch and Museum | A hands-on look at how laundry was done in the 1800s.
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🍓County of Riverside Farmers Market | 8:30am-1:30pm | Corner of Lemon and 10th Street, Downtown Riverside
🆓🐾Pawsitive Readers Program | 3:30-4:30pm | RCDAS Shelter in Jurupa Valley
🧂 Salt Painting & Mineral Cart | 3-5pm | San Bernardino County Museum in Redlands | Museum Admission $5-10
🆓💃 Summer Fun Concerts in the Park: Vilma Diaz y La Sonora | 6-9pm | Fairmount Park | Salsa and cumbia music. Bring lawn chairs and enjoy family-friendly fun.
🏊🏿🆓 Free Swim Day | 1–3pm | Shamel Park Poo | Swimming at this location is free today. Pools are available for open swim all summer throughout Riverside for a small fee.
🏊🏽 Rec Swim + Night Swim | 1–3pm and 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
Thursday, July 16, 2026 — What to Do with Kids in Riverside
🆓🌿🎨 TEENS: Paint & Propagate | 4pm | Arlington Library
🆓📿 TEENS: Beaded Plant Holder | 3pm | Casa Blanca Library
🆓📖 Baby Bee Storytime| 9:30am | Main Library
🆓📚 Bilingual Storytime | 11am | Arlanza Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Orange Terrace Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Eastside Library at Lincoln Park
🆓✏️ Writing Boxes | 4pm | La Sierra Library
🐍 World Snake Day | 10am-12pm | Heritage House | See a snake, touch a skin, make a craft, and chat with a biologist in the gardens. Free and family friendly!
🆓🎭 Shakespeare in the Park: Twelfth Night | 7pm | Fairmount Park | Free Shakespeare in the Park featuring a preshow by Youth Shakespeare Theatre Camp 2026. No specific age requirement to attend, but kids 10 and up may enjoy it the most.
🆓📚 Storytime at the Frugal Frigate | 3:00-3:30pm | The Frugal Frigate children’s bookstore in Redlands | Free, all ages welcome
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🏊🏽 Rec Night Swim | 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
🎶🌊The Prince of Egypt: The Musical | 7pm | Elevate Life Church | faith-based production of the Prince of Egypt, tickets required, Good for big kids/teens!
Friday, July 17, 2026 — Family Fun in Riverside
🆓🎨 Kyle's Draw Along | 11:30am | Main Library (Lunch at the Library Performance)
🆓🌸 Flower Origami Craft at Lincoln Park | 3pm | Eastside Library
Sensory Hour | 10am | La Sierra Library
🆓🌿 Family Storytime | 9:30am | Ameal Moore Nature Center
🆓🐝 Baby Bee Storytime | 11am | Arlington Library
🆓♟️ Chess Club | 2-4pm | Orange Terrace Library
🆓🎭 Shakespeare in the Park: Twelfth Night | 7pm | Fairmount Park | Free Shakespeare in the Park featuring a preshow by Youth Shakespeare Theatre Camp 2026. No specific age requirement to attend, but kids 10 and up may enjoy it the most.
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🥕 Farmers Market | 10am-3pm | Farmhouse Collective |
🍊 Free Outdoor Tours at Citrus State Historic Park | 10am | Citrus State Historic Park | Tours are free, parking $7 per car
🆓🎻 The Hutchins Consort | 8pm | Redlands Bowl | A violin ensemble performing Vivaldi's Four Seasonsand other string classics. Free admission — picnics welcome and part of the fun, all ages welcome!
🎬🆓 Movies in the Park: Encanto | Dusk (~7:30–8pm) | Bryant Park| Free outdoor movie night — bring blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks!
🎶🌊The Prince of Egypt: The Musical| 7pm | Elevate Life Church | faith-based production of the Prince of Egypt, tickets required, Good for big kids/teens!
👑🎼Anastasia Musical| 7:00pm | Riverside Community Players | youth community production - tickets required
Saturday, July 18, 2026 — Family-Friendly Activities in Riverside
🏃 Ryan Bonaminio Parkrun| 7:30am | Ryan Bonaminio Park, Mt. Rubidoux | Free | Weekly 5K walk/run, all ages & fitness levels welcome
🆓🐄 Barnyard's Little Critters Show | 2pm | La Sierra Library
🆓🌿🔍 Plant Scavenger Hunt| All Day | Marcy Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 9:30am | Main Library
🆓🌊 VOLUNTEER: Santa Ana River Cleanup | 9am | Martha McLean-Anza Narrows Park | Join Inland Empire Waterkeeper for a river cleanup! Registration required, kids welcome with an adult.
🎬 Movies in the Park| 30 minutes after sunset | Rancho Jurupa Regional Park
🚂🎉 Taste of Perris – Summer on the Rails | 4-9pm | Southern California Railway Museum | Free admission and parking, with open exhibits, crafts, lawn games, and more. Tickets to ride: $9-13.
🆓🚲🌟 Riverside Light Parade | fun, free illuminated bike ride | Meet 2 hours before sunset at 4050 Main Street, Riverside
🆓📚 Storytime at the Frugal Frigate | 10-10:30am | The Frugal Frigate children’s bookstore in Redlands
🍓Downtown Riverside Farmers Market | 8am-1pm | Main Street at 10th in Downtown Riverside (by City Hall)
🍊 Free Outdoor Tours at Citrus State Historic Park | 10am | Citrus State Historic Park | Tours are free, parking $7 per car
🆓🎒 Back to School Kickoff & Community Fair | 9am-12pm | Main Library | Miracles and Dreams Foundation event providing 1,000 backpacks with school supplies, plus free haircuts, health and dental screenings, and a 40-booth community fair with giveaways and family activities. Children must be present; while supplies last.
🆓🎒 Back to School Community Food Distribution & Backpack Giveaway | 11:30am-1pm | Lighthouse of Hope | Free groceries, diapers, household items, and backpacks/school supplies while supplies last. Free haircuts for elementary and middle school students, plus community vendors and family activities.
🔬 STEAM Summer Activities | 10am-3pm | San Bernardino County Museum in Redlands | Interactive Cart Talk: Biodiversity Cart, STEAM Lab, Collage Extravaganza (Tissue Paper Collage, Mosaics, Tessellation Quilt). Admission $5-10
🆓🥾 Family Hike| 9am | Ameal Moore Nature Center | A free family-friendly hike.
🎲🌙 Family Bingo Night | 5:30pm | Orange Terrace Community Center | Boards $10-30, cash only.
🎶🌊The Prince of Egypt: The Musical| 2pm and 7pm | Elevate Life Church | faith-based production of the Prince of Egypt, tickets required, Good for big kids/teens!
👑🎼Anastasia Musical| 1:00 and 7:00pm | Riverside Community Players | youth community production - tickets required
🛍️🎨 Woodcrest Market Collective| 8am–12pm | outside Woodcrest Public Library
Sunday, July 19, 2026 in Riverside with Kids
🆓🖼️ Free Summer Sundays | 12:00 – 5:00 PM | Riverside Art Museum / the Cheech | RSVP for confirmed entry
🆓📰 Summer Zine Workshop Series | 1-4pm | Riverside Art Museum | Learn to make your own zine (a little magazine). This activity is not targeted specifically for children, but I think it’d be fine for kids to join with an adult!
🆓📚 Where the Wild Things Are Storytime | 12pm | Barnes & Noble Galleria at Tyler
🥕 Tyler Galleria Farmers Market| 8:30am-1pm | Tyler Mall parking lot by Barnes & Noble
🍊 Free Outdoor Tours at Citrus State Historic Park | 10am | Citrus State Historic Park | Tours are free, parking $7 per car
🆓⚽ FIFA World Cup Final Watch Party | 12pm | Villegas Park | Watch the FIFA World Cup Final live with food, snow cones, a beer garden, and more.
👑🎼Anastasia Musical| 1:00pm | Riverside Community Players | youth community production - tickets required
Monday, July 20, 2026 — Things to Do in Riverside with Your Family
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🏊🏽 Rec Swim | 1–3pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
🌿 Origami in the UCR Botanic Gardens| 8am - 11am | Free admission, parking $2/hr. The UCR Botanic Gardens are worth visiting anytime, but when we came a few weeks ago we made origami pinwheels at the origami station and the teacher was so kind and gentle… it was a very sweet little added bonus to our visit!
Tuesday, July 21, 2026 — Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Riverside
🆓🦎 Thor's Reptile Fun | 3pm | Arlanza Library - “this entertaining and educational show features arthropods, amphibians and reptiles of all sizes”
🆓🦕 Dino Party | 11:30am | Lincoln Park (Lunch at the Library Performance)
🆓🌱 Mini Community Garden | 2pm | Orange Terrace Library
🆓📖 Preschool Storytime | 9:30am | Main Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Marcy Library
🆓🧸 Toddler Play | 11am | Arlanza Library
🆓🎨 Preschool Playdate | 11am | Arlington Library
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🆓❄️ Disney's Frozen: The Musical (Public Dress Rehearsal) | 8pm | Redlands Bowl | Musical theater based on the Disney film. Free admission — picnics welcome and part of the fun, all ages welcome!
🏊🏽 Rec Night Swim | 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
🆓🧸 Stuffed Animal Sleepover| 5-8pm | Chick-fil-A Central Riverside
🆓🥁 Summer Concert Series: Twilight Palms Band | 7-9pm | Canyon Crest Towne Centre | Live music featuring steel drums. Bring a lawn chair!
Wednesday, July 22, 2026 — Family Activities in Riverside
🆓🎨 TEENS: Recycled Mosaics | 3pm | Main Library
🆓🍓 TEENS: Strawberry Totes | 11am | Marcy Library
🆓📚 Preschool Storytime | 10am | La Sierra Library
🆓📖 Family Storytime | 11am | Casa Blanca Library
🆓🎨 Preschool Storytime | 11am | Eastside Library at Lincoln Park
🆓🌙 Twilight Tales | 5pm | Main Library
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🍓County of Riverside Farmers Market | 8:30am-1:30pm | Corner of Lemon and 10th Street, Downtown Riverside
🆓🐾Pawsitive Readers Program | 3:30-4:30pm | RCDAS Shelter in Jurupa Valley
🆓🕺 Summer Fun Concerts in the Park: Pop Gun Rerun | 6-9pm | Fairmount Park | '80s music. Bring lawn chairs and enjoy family-friendly fun.
🏊🏿🆓 Free Swim Day | 1–3pm | Reid Park Pool | Swimming at this location is free today. Pools are available for open swim all summer throughout Riverside for a small fee.
🏊🏽 Rec Swim + Night Swim | 1–3pm and 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
Thursday, July 23, 2026 — What to Do with Kids in Riverside
🆓💃 Aztec Culture & Dance | 3pm | Casa Blanca Library
🆓📖 Baby Bee Storytime| 9:30am | Main Library
🆓📚 Bilingual Storytime | 11am | Arlanza Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Orange Terrace Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Eastside Library at Lincoln Park
🆓✏️ Writing Boxes | 4pm | La Sierra Library
🆓📚 Storytime at the Frugal Frigate | 3:00-3:30pm | The Frugal Frigate children’s bookstore in Redlands | Free, all ages welcome
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🆓❄️ Disney's Frozen: The Musical | 8pm | Redlands Bowl | Musical theater based on the Disney film. Free admission — picnics welcome and part of the fun, all ages welcome!
🎬🏊 Swim-N-Cinema | 8:15pm | Drayson Center Pool, Loma Linda | Watch a family-friendly movie from the pool deck or grassy area — waterslide and diving board open all night! Concessions available. $7 online or $9 at the door.
🏊🏽 Rec Night Swim | 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
Friday, July 24, 2026 — Family Fun in Riverside
🆓🎪 Brettso the Great at Lincoln Park| 3pm | Eastside Library
🆓🌿 Garden Sensory| 2pm | La Sierra Library
🆓🌿 Family Storytime | 9:30am | Ameal Moore Nature Center
🆓🐝 Baby Bee Storytime | 11am | Arlington Library
🆓♟️ Chess Club | 2-4pm | Orange Terrace Library
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🥕 Farmers Market | 10am-3pm | Farmhouse Collective |
🍊 Free Outdoor Tours at Citrus State Historic Park | 10am | Citrus State Historic Park | Tours are free, parking $7 per car
🆓❄️ Disney's Frozen: The Musical| 8pm | Redlands Bowl | Musical theater based on the Disney film. Free admission — picnics welcome and part of the fun, all ages welcome!
🎬🆓 Movies in the Park: Bad Guys 2 | Dusk (~7:30–8pm) | Hunter Hobby Park | Free outdoor movie night — bring blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks!
🥊🌟 Arlanza Boxing Show | Doors 5:30pm, Show 6-9pm | Bryant Park | Live boxing show. $20 ages 11+, $5 kids.
Saturday, July 25, 2026 — Family-Friendly Activities in Riverside
🆓📚 Bilingual Storytime with Brillantina | 3pm | Main Library
🆓🎲 TEENS:D & D | 3-5:45pm | Casa Blanca Library
🆓🎬 Family Movie Matinee: Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days (PG) | 2pm | Arlanza Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 9:30am | Main Library
🆓💦🎉 Water Mania | after 4pm service | The Grove Community Church | Splash around at this community event after the 4pm service. Dinner available for purchase.
⭐ Stargazing | 1 hour after sunset | Rancho Jurupa Regional Park
🆓📚 Storytime at the Frugal Frigate | 10-10:30am | The Frugal Frigate children’s bookstore in Redlands
🎨 🆓 FREE Michaels Kids Club: Summer Bracelets 10am-12pm | Michaels Craft Stores | sign up online
🍓Downtown Riverside Farmers Market | 8am-1pm | Main Street at 10th in Downtown Riverside (by City Hall)
🍊 Free Outdoor Tours at Citrus State Historic Park | 10am | Citrus State Historic Park | Tours are free, parking $7 per car
🔬 STEAM Summer Activities | 10am-3pm | San Bernardino County Museum in Redlands | History Cart, Collage Extravaganza in the STEAM Lab (Tissue Paper Collage, Mosaics, Tessellation Quilt). Admission $5-10
⭐🔭 Cosmic Nights | 7-10pm | San Bernardino County Museum in Redlands | outdoor stargazing, telescope viewing and astronomy education. Admission $5-10
⭐🌿 🆓 Little Land Use Learners: Native Plants Matter| 10am-11am | Land Use Learning Center (near Mt. Rubidoux), Riverside | Free | Monthly children's nature program with activities like storytime, crafts, and nature walks.
🆓❄️ Disney's Frozen: The Musical | 8pm | Redlands Bowl | Musical theater based on the Disney film. Free admission — picnics welcome and part of the fun, all ages welcome!
🆓🌍 International Food & Music Festival | 12-9pm | Downtown Riverside | The 4th Annual festival celebrating culture through international food, a carnival, a family-friendly beer garden, cultural performances and vendors, and live music all weekend. Free admission.
🏃 Ryan Bonaminio Parkrun| 7:30am | Ryan Bonaminio Park, Mt. Rubidoux | Free | Weekly 5K walk/run, all ages & fitness levels welcome
Sunday, July 26, 2026 in Riverside with Kids
🆓🖼️ Free Summer Sundays | 12:00 – 5:00 PM | Riverside Art Museum / the Cheech | RSVP for confirmed entry
🆓📚 Knight Owl Storytime | 12pm | Barnes & Noble Galleria at Tyler
⭐🚂 🆓 Riverside Live Steamers Public Run Day | 10am-3pm | Free steam-powered train rides at Hunter Hobby Park
🥕 Tyler Galleria Farmers Market| 8:30am-1pm | Tyler Mall parking lot by Barnes & Noble
🍊 Free Outdoor Tours at Citrus State Historic Park | 10am | Citrus State Historic Park | Tours are free, parking $7 per car
🆓❄️ Disney's Frozen: The Musical | 8pm | Redlands Bowl | Musical theater based on the Disney film. Free admission — picnics welcome and part of the fun, all ages welcome!
🆓🌍International Food & Music Festival featuring Quinto Sol | 12-9pm | Downtown Riverside | Day two of the festival, featuring legendary Chicano music group Quinto Sol along with international food, a carnival, a family-friendly beer garden, cultural performances and vendors, and live music. Free admission.
🛍️👧 Kids Market: Galleria at Tyler Farmers Market | 8am-1pm | Galleria at Tyler | A kids market where children run their own booths to sell, and anyone can come shop, held alongside the Galleria at Tyler Farmers Market.
Monday, July 27, 2026 — Things to Do in Riverside with Your Family
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🏊🏽 Rec Swim | 1–3pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
🌿 Origami in the UCR Botanic Gardens| 8am - 11am | Free admission, parking $2/hr. The UCR Botanic Gardens are worth visiting anytime, but when we came a few weeks ago we made origami pinwheels at the origami station and the teacher was so kind and gentle… it was a very sweet little added bonus to our visit!
Tuesday, July 28, 2026 — Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Riverside
🆓📖 Preschool Storytime | 9:30am | Main Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Marcy Library
🆓🧸 Toddler Play | 11am | Arlanza Library
🆓🎨 Preschool Playdate | 11am | Arlington Library
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🆓🥁 TAIKOPROJECT | 8pm | Redlands Bowl | traditional Japanese taiko drumming with a modern energy. Free admission — picnics welcome and part of the fun, all ages welcome!
🏊🏽 Rec Night Swim | 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
🆓🦸 Super Hero Night| 5-8pm | Chick-fil-A Central Riverside
🆓🎹 Summer Concert Series: Nathan and the Piano | 7-9pm | Canyon Crest Towne Centre | Bring a lawn chair!
Wednesday, July 29, 2026 — Family Activities in Riverside
🆓🐄 Barnyard's Little Critter Show | 3pm | Main Library
🆓🎬🐛 Movie & Craft: Alice in Wonderland | 11am | Marcy Library
🆓🐾 Doodlebug: Wild About Animals| 11:30am | La Sierra Library - ASL interpreters available, free lunch for kids 18 and under.
🆓📚 Preschool Storytime | 10am | La Sierra Library
🆓📖 Family Storytime | 11am | Casa Blanca Library
🆓🎨 Preschool Storytime | 11am | Eastside Library at Lincoln Park
🆓🌙 Twilight Tales | 5pm | Main Library
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🍓County of Riverside Farmers Market | 8:30am-1:30pm | Corner of Lemon and 10th Street, Downtown Riverside
🆓🐾Pawsitive Readers Program | 3:30-4:30pm | RCDAS Shelter in Jurupa Valley
🆓🎤 Summer Fun Concerts in the Park: B.I.G.| 6-9pm | Fairmount Park | R&B and old school favorites. Bring lawn chairs and enjoy family-friendly fun.
🏊🏿🆓 Free Swim Day | 1–3pm | Villegas Park Pool | Swimming at this location is free today. Pools are available for open swim all summer throughout Riverside for a small fee.
🏊🏽 Rec Swim + Night Swim | 1–3pm and 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
Thursday, July 30, 2026 — What to Do with Kids in Riverside
🆓🎈 Mister Twister: Balloon Twisting | 11am | Arlington Library
🆓🌸 Upcycled Flower Pots | 3pm | Casa Blanca Library🆓📖 Baby Bee Storytime| 9:30am | Main Library
🆓📚 Bilingual Storytime | 11am | Arlanza Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Orange Terrace Library
🆓📚 Family Storytime | 11am | Eastside Library at Lincoln Park
🆓✏️ Writing Boxes | 4pm | La Sierra Library
🆓📚 Storytime at the Frugal Frigate | 3:00-3:30pm | The Frugal Frigate children’s bookstore in Redlands | Free, all ages welcome
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🏊🏽 Rec Night Swim | 7-8:30pm | Riverside Community Pools | $2–4/person, cash. Check specific pools, dates, and times here.
Friday, July 31, 2026 — Family Fun in Riverside
🆓🪄Billy Bonker's Magic Show | 2pm | La Sierra Library
🆓🌳 Bloom & Grow at Lincoln Park | 11am | Eastside Library
🆓 Sensory Hour| 10am | La Sierra Library
🆓⚡ Pokemon Club | 3:30pm | La Sierra Library
🆓🌿 Family Storytime | 9:30am | Ameal Moore Nature Center
🆓🐝 Baby Bee Storytime | 11am | Arlington Library
🆓♟️ Chess Club | 2-4pm | Orange Terrace Library
🍎🆓 Riverside SummerFeeds: Lunch at Parks and Libraries around Riverside | 11ish-1ish (times vary by location) | free lunch for those 18 and under, more info on specific locations, days, and times here
🥕 Farmers Market | 10am-3pm | Farmhouse Collective |
🍊 Free Outdoor Tours at Citrus State Historic Park | 10am | Citrus State Historic Park | Tours are free, parking $7 per car
🆓🎭 West Side Story in Concert | 8pm | Redlands Bowl | Music from the Broadway musical, featuring orchestra and the Inland Master Chorale. Free admission — picnics welcome and part of the fun, all ages welcome!
🎬🆓 Movies in the Park: Incredibles 2 | Dusk (~7:30–8pm) | La Sierra Park | Free outdoor movie night — bring blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks!
