Family events in Vancouver, WA

At Cameo Cafe, a monthly Memory Café co-hosted by HOPE and the Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest Washington welcomes people living with memory loss and their care partners. This relaxed, judgment free gathering emphasizes connection over diagnosis and offers conversation, companionship, and gentle opportunities to participate. Activities can include art, music, conversation starters, and simple games that invite creativity and help keep minds active. Staff and volunteers maintain a calm, welcoming setting so everyone can engage at a pace that feels comfortable. Care partners can share meaningful time with their loved one or connect with others who understand similar experiences. The café is open to individuals experiencing dementia or other cognitive changes, to family members and friends, and to anyone seeking community and a positive shared experience. By reducing isolation and strengthening relationships, it creates everyday moments of joy and normalcy. HOPE and AAADSW work together to make sure the gathering remains accessible, inclusive, and grounded in dignity.

Little train lovers can enjoy a dedicated wooden railway play session at Kazoodles Toys, created with toddlers and preschoolers in mind. The setting is calm and welcoming so children ages 18 months to 5 years can explore at a comfortable pace. Building tracks and moving trains supports fine motor control, hand eye coordination, and early problem solving. Imaginative storytelling around the rails encourages language growth, and time with peers nurtures social skills such as parallel play and early turn taking. Adults are encouraged to stay and participate with their children. No registration is required.

Train in Okinawan Kenpo, the old style of karate, in a small dojo setting that emphasizes personalized instruction. Classes are led by Eric Sensei, a 9th dan Shihan in Okinawan Kenpo and Kobudo, and follow the traditional approach used in Okinawa. The program is designed for adults, and children may participate when accompanied by a parent for each class, creating a space that welcomes families. Remote participation is available for those not in the area. There are no contracts, and the first month is free.

The Parent HELP Conference is a single-day gathering in Vancouver, WA for parents, grandparents, teachers, social workers, and anyone who wants to strengthen how they support and care for the kids in their lives.

Settle into a seat at Battle Ground Cinema for a big-screen premiere featuring five-minute films created by teens for FVRLibraries’ contest. The presentation is free to attend, and film fans of all ages are welcome. Support for this event is provided by the Friends of Battle Ground Community Library and the Friends of Cascade Park Community Library.

Kids who love building, planning, and big ideas can explore entrepreneurship with the Kazoodles Entrepreneur Club. The program guides young creators through what it takes to run a business, moving from brainstorming concepts to offering real products at a monthly Kids Flea Market. Weekly activities include hands-on planning, discussion, and teamwork while covering practical topics such as money, marketing, and customer service. Participants build confidence and independence, practice creativity and problem solving, and make friends along the way. The monthly Kids Flea Market features $10-per-month booth spaces where children can sell handmade goods, toys, services, or other creations, and they keep all earnings. Space is limited.

The 5th annual CouveCon brings a flagship pop culture celebration to Vancouver Mall, featuring celebrity meet and greets, panel discussions, artist showcases, interactive activities for fans of all ages, exclusive merchandise, cosplay contests, and fandom-focused sessions that spotlight creativity and community. Attendees can explore Artist Alley and Vendor Village, dive into Games Galaxy, stop by Cosplay Corner, and enjoy Main Stage performances. The Pop Culture Pit-Stop and a special themed experience room add to the fun, with the theme to be announced. Conversations continue in the panel room. Guest appearances will be revealed soon, and details about cosplay competition categories, prizes, and registration are on the way. Check back for more information.

The Hello Kitty Cafe Truck returns to Vancouver Mall for COUVECON CHAPTER 5 with treats and merchandise available while supplies last. Find it near the entrance by Outback Steakhouse.

Enjoy a relaxed creative session at Kazoodles Toys, hosted by Kazoodles Kid Ambassador, Eleanor. A wide selection of coloring pages will be on hand to inspire artwork and encourage unhurried creativity. Kids, teens, and adults are all welcome. This event is free, and participants only need to bring their imagination for a calm, colorful experience.

A relaxed, creative session at Kazoodles offers hosted, open-ended crafting for ages 5 and up. Adults can craft alongside younger children, especially those under 7, creating a shared experience for parents, grandparents, and caregivers. Older kids can explore more independence with access to parts of the Creator Station, opportunities to make their own design choices, and space to build confidence through discovery and accomplishment. The cost is $5 per participant, plus tax and fees, and all supplies are included. Expect creativity and connection, and take home a finished project.