Free events in Encinitas, CA

Kennel Comforters volunteers gather at San Diego Dept Of Animal Services - Carlsbad to make beds for shelter pets. This meeting is dedicated to crafting bedding so animals at the shelter have added comfort.

Gino's Astral Blues Machine brings a high energy performance to Escondido's Cruisin Grand, the car show, cruise night, and street fair. The show takes place at Maple Street Plaza.

Safety Orange performs on the rooftop bar at The Surf Club Oceanside. Presented by the venue, this free event welcomes all ages.

At Knowhere Games & Comics, players hone their skills in Magic: The Gathering’s Commander format. Entry is free.

In honor of California’s Chicano Heritage Month, the Chicano Block Party turns the California Center for the Arts, Escondido into a free, all-day celebration of art, music, culture, and community. Highlights include a lowrider car show, live music, an art market featuring local artists and printmakers, hands-on activities, pop-up installations, artist demonstrations, and a live mural created on site by José Hugo Sánchez. Presented in tandem with Amoxtlis, Sánchez’s immersive exhibition at the CCAE Museum, this gathering honors the artists, histories, and communities that have shaped Southern California’s cultural landscape. Families can connect with local creatives and enjoy art experiences spread throughout the CCAE campus.

A free live music experience for kids featuring Kathryn the Grape brings upbeat songs and interactive fun to North County Mall. Children can sing, move, and participate throughout the show while families enjoy a friendly atmosphere. It is a lighthearted way to share music and make lasting memories together.

Learn how to draw out the stories hidden in family photographs in a free class offered in a hybrid format. You will be encouraged to think about who your ancestors were, what motivated them, and how each image fits into the context of their lives. The in-person option takes place at the City of Carlsbad Faraday Administration Building in Room 173B and does not require advance sign-up. The online option is offered on Zoom and requires registration.

This free, community-focused dance party at The Shoppes at Carlsbad invites young children to sing and move with Kathryn the Grape. The program blends interactive songs with simple movement activities that encourage learning and participation. The Shoppes at Carlsbad sponsors the event in support of family-friendly entertainment.

A free summer carnival at Frontwave Arena is part of the Frontwave Arena Summer Series presented by True Care. Guests can enjoy classic games like plinko and cornhole, face painting, inflatables, photo ops, upbeat music, and family-friendly entertainment. Mascots, raffles, and plenty of activities for kids help create a lively atmosphere while parents relax. Food and beverages will be available for purchase, including popcorn, cotton candy, hot dogs, and more, for a classic carnival experience the whole community can enjoy.

Experience a weekly listening lounge where music fans, neighbors, and friends can unwind with carefully curated live performances. This free series, created in collaboration with Barn Time Music, spotlights local talent and features a different musician each week. It takes place inside Haven Farm + Table at Fox Point Farms. While the restaurant’s kitchen is closed, the bar serves drinks and guests can enjoy food from Huerta Taco Stand and Fox Point Pizza throughout the night. A special is available with any three fresh tacos plus a beer or select nonalcoholic beverage for $20. See who is playing by checking posts on FB and IG. No RSVP is required, and attendees are welcome to drop in for a short visit or stay longer to enjoy the music and community.

Enjoy a lively dance party with Kathryn the Grape where kids can move to live music, meet new friends, and burn off some energy. It is free and open to all ages, taking place in Center Court on level 1.