Family events in Escondido, CA

Spend an evening at The Wave Waterpark as it stays open later than usual. Admission is $16 per person. Birthday party reservations can be scheduled during the event at a discounted rate, and Season Pass holders receive free entry.

Downtown Escondido comes alive with a showcase of classic cars and rods alongside local retail shops and street vendors. Stroll through the displays, admire the vehicles, and browse the surrounding shops and vendor stalls for a fun, relaxed experience.

Experience a guided walk through a working regenerative farm and see how food is grown for the community. Explore three productive gardens, a diverse collection of medicinal herbs, and an orchard with more than 650 fruit trees. Farmer Rich explains how regenerative and permaculture practices build healthy soil, produce nutrient-dense crops, and support a thriving farm ecosystem. Participants gain practical ideas to use at home, with time to ask questions and enjoy the surroundings.

Connect with a rescue team and the animals they care for at a welcoming meet and greet. Talk with team members about adopting, fostering, or volunteering, and meet dogs and reptiles that are seeking new homes. Spend time with animal ambassadors while learning about responsible pet care. Guidance will be available on how to begin the adoption process and how fostering works. This is a chance to ask questions and support ongoing rescue efforts.

Enjoy a family friendly event at North County Mall where bingo and upbeat music come together for all ages. DJ MandyMixes performs a live set while participants play for prizes that appeal to every age group, creating a lively atmosphere in Center Court on Level 1. Participation is free, and the gathering takes place on the second Saturday of each month.

Escondido Cars & Coffee is a weekly, casual car gathering where all cars, trucks, and bikes are welcome. It’s family- and pet-friendly, with coffee and baked goods available (sometimes pancakes), and admission is free. Stop by for a relaxed morning of vehicles and community.

Enjoy a free live music experience for kids with Kathryn the Grape, featuring interactive moments that engage children and families alike. The event takes place at Center Court on Level 1 and offers a cheerful setting to make lasting memories together.

At Petco in San Marcos, meet adoptable rescue dogs ready to find their forever homes. Walk-ins are welcome, and appointments can be set in advance to reserve a specific pup so they will be available to meet during the event. Each dog arrives with health records and comprehensive medical care, including vaccinations, de-worming, flea and tick treatment, a microchip, and spay or neuter surgery. Adoption fees vary by dog and start at $250, considered a partially tax-deductible donation that helps support the charity’s work caring for over 500 dogs. For questions or to arrange an appointment, call or text 888.508.8943 Monday through Sunday from 8 am to 8 pm.

Affordable veterinary care is available with a wide range of vaccines designed to keep animals healthy at prices that feel easy on the budget. Most services do not require an appointment. Teeth cleaning for dogs and cats does require scheduling in advance by contacting your local store. Kahoots partners with Advanced Pet Service, a team of dedicated veterinarians and technicians who visit stores to provide these services. Offerings include individual vaccines and packages, testing, microchipping, nail trimming, and more to help keep pets in good health.

Curious kids can dive into discovery at the Children's Museum of Discovery. Each camp day features time in the exhibits, interactive projects guided by trained museum staff, and chances to build new friendships. Activities span engineering challenges, paleontology-themed investigations, and space exploration to spark imagination and experimentation. Sessions are organized by age, with one for ages 4 to 5 and another for ages 6 to 8.

Enjoy a lively dance party with Kathryn the Grape at North County Mall. Taking place in Center Court on level 1, this free, all-ages event features live music that gets kids moving, chances to make new friends, and plenty of energy-burning fun.