Family events in Chico, CA

Enjoy a free, family-friendly Friday Night Concert Series in the heart of Downtown Chico. Grab takeout from a nearby restaurant and picnic in the Plaza while the band performs. It is a great way to spend a summer evening with friends and family, whether you plan to dance along or just relax and enjoy the music.

Blü Egyptian with friends brings a free, all-ages show to The Commons Chico. Formed by four Chico students who began jamming during the pandemic, the group has evolved into a West Coast touring jam band that blends rock, funk, reggae, bluegrass, and electronic influences. Sets glide from catchy originals to timeless covers with smooth transitions. After more than 500 performances in five years, the band has drawn attention from major festivals and national touring acts and has taken the stage at notable venues along the coast. Expect an ever-evolving performance filled with lively, in-the-moment energy.

Get ready for Northern California’s horror fest with a lineup packed with vendors, cosplay, special guests, and plenty of scares. The event runs over the weekend at Silver Dollar Fairgrounds, with free parking available and activities geared for all ages.

Bring the whole crew for an all-ages paint night at Logan’s Roadhouse Chico. You’ll all paint a coordinated “Dog Daze” design together step by step with an instructor in the room. Beginner-friendly and no art experience is needed, with all the supplies included. Paint, brushes, canvas, and easels are provided, and everyone leaves with their own finished painting.

Enjoy a poolside screening of Disney and Pixar's Luca at Pleasant Valley Pool. Swim, relax on a float you bring, and take in the movie from the water. Snacks will be available for purchase. Admission is $5 per person, and children 2 and under are free.

Try new aerial hoop (lyra) and silk hammock classes at this all-day event for students ages 7 to 18. The schedule includes hoop progression at 10:30 AM, hammock progression at 11:45 AM, and an Aerial Arts Level 1 class for beginners at 3:00 PM.

BLACC presents the 5th Annual Back to School Bash at the Dorothy Johnson Center. This free community gathering supports families preparing for a new school year with a giveaway of backpacks and school supplies available while supplies last. Local organizations will be on site with educational resources and health services, and Vitalant will host a blood drive. Attendees can enjoy food, drinks, games, and other activities that bring neighbors together. The event is designed to lighten back to school expenses for local families while strengthening community connections. Support comes from California Health Collaborative’s LEAD Project, Stop the Hate, and Restoring Our Community. Opportunities are available for sharing resources and for sponsoring or volunteering through a participation form.

Slime Summer Art Camp is a fun, hands-on creative experience where kids can explore, experiment, and make their own slime in a supportive studio setting. Campers will have access to art materials and plenty of time for sensory-rich play and free creative expression.

Afternoon Kids Club is back at the Oroville Branch Library for a fun, hands-on session with fall-themed crafts. Kids can make projects like paper bag squirrels and nature crowns, along with several other activities. There’s no registration needed, and families are encouraged to bring creativity and a friend.

Inspire School of Arts and Sciences is holding a ribbon cutting to mark the opening of its new campus and the start of a new school year. The celebration features remarks from alumni, staff, and community members, plus live music and light refreshments. Families and friends are welcome as the school shares its new space with the community.