Family events in Lompoc, CA

Sea Center staff and volunteers present a 15-minute ocean-themed storytime inside the Dive In exhibit. All ages are welcome, with content especially engaging for children 10 and under. Participation is included with Sea Center admission, and members are free. All Sea Center spaces are ADA accessible.

The Santa Barbara Greek Festival returns beside the California coast with a spirited celebration of Greek food and culture. Taste traditional dishes, treat yourself to freshly made pastries, and enjoy live performances throughout the festivities. It is a festive community gathering with something for everyone.

This annual family picnic hosted by the Elks offers an afternoon of activities for all ages. Music is provided by DJ 1o, with a bounce house, an inflatable water slide, face painting, kids games, and mule drawn wagon rides. Children can enjoy complimentary soft serve ice cream. Food is available, with hot dogs, cheeseburgers, chips, soda, and water offered for purchase. The event is open to Elks members and their guests of all ages.

Step into a living butterfly garden for a brief portrait experience that captures the season’s color and charm. Each private 20-minute mini session is led by Kristen Smith of Veils & Tails Photography, whose relaxed approach and expertise support natural, lasting images. Sessions are open to individuals of any age and to groups of up to six. Wear whatever suits your style, from jeans to wedding attire. Please note that flowers and pets are not permitted. The $350 reservation includes a 20-minute private session in the Butterflies Alive pavilion, ten high-resolution photos delivered two weeks after the session, and the option to purchase the full set of images directly from the photographer. Reservations are required.

An expert guide leads a playful safari through Prehistoric Forest that imagines a step back in time to the age of dinosaurs. Young explorers learn where different species lived, what they ate, and how scientists uncover these details through paleontology. The tour sets off from beneath the big oak tree at the center of the museum map. It is recommended for children ages 5 to 9, though all adventurers are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Participation is included with museum admission, free for members, and no additional RSVP or registration is required.

Slow down and tune your senses to birdsong, blossoms, and the small creatures all around during a relaxed nature journaling session that fosters mindfulness, careful observation, and connection with the natural world. Geared toward nature lovers ages eight and up, this installment begins with a 30-minute introduction in the Santa Barbara Gallery, then moves to the Museum Backyard to observe and record insects through casual writing and sketching. Participants may come and go as they wish or stay for the entire session, and the series welcomes attendance at a single date or all three. Instructors certified through the Wild Wonder Foundation share tips and guidance, and paper, clipboards, and pencils are provided. Personal sketchbooks or other preferred supplies are welcome. Participation is included with general museum admission, and members are admitted at no additional charge.

This weekly community market brings lively energy to Pismo Pier Plaza next to the PISMO BEACH sign. Explore over 40 local artisans, sample a variety of delicious food, and enjoy live performances by local musicians with the ocean just steps away. Families will find face painting and a small play area located just a few steps from the event. It offers a welcoming way to support small local creators in a beachside setting. For event inquiries, use the official Pismo Summer Market Facebook page or the listed email, and stay mindful of online scams.

A casual drop-in drawing session invites participants to sketch butterflies and moths while exploring antique scientific illustrations in the exhibit The Collectors: A Life in Lepidoptera. Education staff provide support to build drawing skills and explain how artists have aided scientific research as attendees study the species depicted. This activity is suited for art enthusiasts ages eight and older. Core materials are available, and visitors may bring drawing boards and pencils only. Participation is included with Museum admission and is free for members, with no additional RSVP or registration required.

Kiwanis Music Nites turns Elings Park’s Singleton Pavilion into a summer hub for live music and community connection. This free, family friendly concert series features spirited performances, grilled favorites like burgers and hot dogs, cold drinks with adult options, community raffles, local vendors, and plenty of room to dance. Money raised supports local children and the nonprofit organizations partnered with Kiwanis, so every singalong and snack helps make a positive impact.

Six dachshund shows unfold across four days in Santa Barbara, with breeder-judges overseeing the DCC specialty and supported entry competitions. There is complimentary parking and no-cost entries for junior showmanship, plus additional specialties and special attractions. The Breeders Showcase is featured alongside the SBKC dinner for exhibitors, with award ribbons and trophies available.

The 2nd Annual Day of Hope Car Show returns outside Mission Hope Cancer Center in Santa Maria with a vibrant showcase of classic cars, custom builds, and unique vehicles. This community-focused event raises funds that go directly to local cancer patients and their families, providing essential assistance and resources.