Family events in Palo Alto, CA

Golfland is celebrating International Miniature Golf Day with a special two-for-one offer. Purchase a round of mini golf and receive a second round free by presenting a mobile app coupon to the cashier. Download the app in advance to access the coupon and enjoy extra time on the course.

Thursday Live on Cal Ave transforms the car free stretch of California Avenue into a lively community hub with local performers, hands on activities, free giveaways, games, and themed fun for all ages. This edition highlights a Jazz and Harvest Fest theme, pairing homegrown music with a seasonal celebration along the street. Presented by the Palo Alto Recreation Foundation in collaboration with the City of Palo Alto, with support from series sponsors Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan, Stanford Research Park, and Palo Alto Weekly. Attendees are encouraged to stick around to eat, shop, and explore Cal Ave before and after the show.

JIGRAA brings an evening of high energy to Baylands Park with live entertainment, music, and moments to remember. Friends and families can look forward to an upbeat atmosphere filled with celebration and connection in the Bay Area. This single-night experience puts the spotlight on fun, community, and the spirit of JIGRAA from start to finish.

Celebrate the season with a leasing open house filled with pumpkin decorating, casual yard games, seasonal snacks and beverages, and family friendly activities. Explore the community on guided tours and learn about affordable studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom residences that are available. The gathering is tailored for teachers, school employees, and their families, and applications are open to employees of any California public school district, including community colleges. This pet friendly community offers inviting indoor and outdoor spaces, including scenic second floor courtyards and street level public plazas in a walkable, European inspired setting. It is conveniently situated with easy access to major roadways, public transportation, and Caltrain, and is within the Palo Alto Unified School District, making resident students eligible to attend local public schools. The community was developed in partnership by Mercy Housing California and Abode Communities. A back to school special features two months of free rent and a waived application fee on select homes, subject to qualifying credit, income and occupancy restrictions, and free months applied over the lease term. The application fee waiver is available with a complete and timely application packet following a tour. All specials are subject to change without notice. Contact the property for full details.

EPA-EMP Original Good Community BBQ brings together food, music, and family-friendly fun. A $10 raffle offers the chance to win a 50 inch VIZIO Smart TV, a DJ will provide music, and face painting will be available for kids. Attendees are encouraged to donate cash, desserts, watermelons, and beverages to support the gathering. Parking is $6. Volunteers are needed for set up, food service, and clean up, with signups taken by Verdell at 209-207-4088. More information will be shared soon.

Set out for a shoreline run with options for all ages and abilities. Presented by the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District, the event features a one mile Family Fun Run, a 5K at 3.1 miles, and a 10K at 6.2 miles. All courses begin and end at the Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center, offering bay views and cool coastal air along the way. Every participant receives a commemorative T-shirt and medal, and participation supports the center’s education and conservation programs. Strollers are welcome in the family fun run.

Community Food Trucks Day takes place on the fourth Sunday of the month, bringing food trucks together for a friendly community gathering.