Looking for fun, exciting, and family-friendly things to do in Lake Forest, California? You’re in for a treat! Nestled in the heart of Orange County, Lake Forest is a peaceful yet vibrant city that balances natural beauty with a growing community spirit. Whether you’re a local parent searching for weekend ideas or a visitor planning your stay, this blog is your go-to guide for all the kid-approved and family-favorite activities coming up in Lake Forest.
From concerts in the park to science and robotics workshops, and from scenic hikes to movie nights under the stars — Lake Forest has something for every age group and interest.
So pack your calendar and get ready to explore the Top Family-Friendly Things to Do in Lake Forest – Featuring Upcoming Events that will light up your kids’ faces with joy and curiosity!
1. Concerts in the Park – Dance, Sing, Picnic!
Location: Pittsford Park
Date: Every Thursday in July
Time: 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Cost: FREE
Kick off your summer evenings with live music, delicious food, and good company at the Lake Forest Summer Concert Series. These community concerts are held at Pittsford Park, one of the city’s most loved green spaces. Families bring picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks to relax while local bands perform everything from classic rock to country hits.
Kids can dance on the grass, enjoy food trucks, or get their face painted at one of the activity booths. The vibe is festive, the music is loud, and the energy is just right for a family night out.
Tip for parents: Arrive early to grab a good spot and bring glow sticks for added kid-fun once the sun sets!
2. Movies in the Park – Watch Under the Stars
Location: Lake Forest Sports Park
Upcoming Movie Night: “Kung Fu Panda 4” – July 19, 2025
Time: Movie starts at dusk (~8:00 PM)
Cost: FREE
Looking for a cozy, magical experience with your little ones? Movies in the Park offers just that. Settle down with a blanket and popcorn as a giant outdoor screen lights up the night sky. This year’s lineup includes animated hits and family-friendly favorites, and the event is completely free!
You’ll also find craft stations, bounce houses, and snacks for sale. Some families even come in themed costumes for extra fun!
Parent tip: Bring bug spray and jackets for chilly evenings. And don’t forget the popcorn bucket!
3. Moonpreneur’s In-Person Robotics Event
Location: Hilton Garden Inn Irvine Spectrum Lake Forest, 23131 Lake Center Dr, Lake Forest, CA 92630, United States
Next Workshop: July 19, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Ages: 7–14 years
Cost: Free
This is a must-do for curious kids and future innovators!
Moonpreneur’s Robotics Workshop offers a perfect hands-on learning experience for kids who love building, coding, or just figuring out how things work. These sessions are designed to make STEM learning exciting, engaging, and impactful. Kids will explore robotics, electronics, and programming, all while working on creative projects.
The best part? No prior experience is needed. The expert mentors from Moonpreneur break down complex topics into fun, age-appropriate activities that spark imagination and boost confidence.
Parents often describe this workshop as a game-changer that introduces kids to future-ready skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork.
Bonus: They also offer trial classes and longer-term programs for tech-loving kids!
👉 Tip: Register early, as these sessions fill up fast!
4. Kids Fishing Derby – Reel in the Fun
Location: Lake Forest Sports Park Pond
Date: August 10, 2025
Time: 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Ages: 6–15
Cost: FREE (registration required)
Bring your tackle box and join dozens of young anglers at the Lake Forest Fishing Derby, a unique and fun-filled event where kids can experience the joy of fishing—some for the first time!
Prizes are awarded in several categories including “Biggest Catch” and “Most Enthusiastic Angler”. Volunteers are on hand to assist the little ones, and rods are available if you don’t have one.
It’s not just about fish — it’s about patience, connection, and outdoor fun!
5. Family Hikes and Nature Walks – Explore Whiting Ranch
Location: Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park
Open Daily
Cost: $3–5 for parking
For families who enjoy nature, Lake Forest is home to one of the most scenic hiking spots in Orange County: Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park. With over 17 miles of trails, this park is perfect for easy family hikes, bike rides, and nature walks.
You might spot deer, rabbits, lizards, and even hawks soaring overhead. Some kid-friendly trails include Borrego Canyon Trail and Red Rock Canyon (perfect for a weekend Instagram-worthy adventure).
Don’t forget your sunscreen and water bottles!
6. Bubblepalooza – A Bubbly Blast for All Ages
Location: Etnies Skatepark, Lake Forest
Date: August 3, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cost: FREE
Bubblepalooza is exactly what it sounds like — a morning packed with giant bubbles, bubble art, bubble stations, and all-out bubbly fun. Kids run wild chasing bubbles of all shapes and sizes, while music and interactive bubble games keep the party going.
The event includes bubble wands, foam zones, and even a bubble science station to sneak in some learning!
Perfect for ages 2–10.
7. Storytime at Lake Forest Library
Location: Lake Forest Library
Days: Every Tuesday and Friday
Time: 10:30 AM
Cost: FREE
Introduce your toddler or preschooler to the magic of books with interactive storytime sessions hosted by the Lake Forest Library. Each session features storytelling, songs, puppet shows, and craft activities tailored to young minds.
The cozy, welcoming environment helps build early literacy skills while keeping your child engaged and social.
Parent tip: Stay back and browse the children’s section. You’ll find excellent STEM picture books and beginner readers to take home!
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8. OC Great Park – Balloon Rides & Carousel Fun
Location: Irvine (15 mins from Lake Forest)
Open Daily
Cost: FREE entrance, small fees for rides
Just a short drive away, OC Great Park offers a memorable day trip for families. Kids can ride the giant tethered helium balloon that lifts you 400 feet in the air — safely and smoothly! There’s also a kid-friendly carousel, art studios, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
The farmers market on Sundays is also a hit, with snacks, fruits, and fun street performers.
Tip: Go early to beat the weekend crowd and enjoy a picnic under the trees.
9. Crafts & Clay at Lake Forest Community Center
Location: Lake Forest Community Center
Monthly Craft Workshop: July 13, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Ages: 5–12
Cost: $5
Is your child a mini-artist in the making? Lake Forest’s monthly craft sessions are a hit with creative kids who love painting, making clay models, and trying out new art techniques. All materials are provided, and each month features a new seasonal theme.
July’s theme: “Under the Sea” — create your own clay sea creatures and paint ocean-inspired canvases!
Parents can join in or sip coffee while the kids get messy (in the best way).
10. Back-to-School Bash – Celebrate the End of Summer
Location: Lake Forest Sports Park
Date: August 24, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Cost: FREE
Before the school bell rings, join the Lake Forest community for an end-of-summer celebration packed with live DJ music, inflatable games, obstacle courses, and giveaways.
It’s also a great way to meet other families, learn about after-school programs (like Moonpreneur’s tech workshops), and enjoy one last hurrah with your kids before homework season starts!
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Bonus: Kid-Friendly Eateries in Lake Forest 🍕🍦
After all the fun, your little adventurers will be hungry! Here are a few spots where kids are welcomed with open arms (and sometimes free meals!):
- California Pizza Kitchen – Kid-sized pizzas and coloring menus.
- Yogurtland – Let them build their own frozen treat.
- The Habit Burger Grill – Great for casual outdoor seating and kid combos.
- Panini Kabob Grill – Fresh Mediterranean and kid-approved rice bowls.
In Summary
Whether your child dreams of flying drones, painting sea monsters, watching movies under the stars, or catching their first fish — Lake Forest brings joy, learning, and community together beautifully. With safe spaces, friendly events, and enriching workshops like Moonpreneur’s robotics classes, the city makes it easy for families to stay connected and inspired.
So the next time your weekend feels like a question mark, come back to this list — your answer is right here in Lake Forest!
Moonpreneur is on a mission to disrupt traditional education and future-proof the next generation with holistic learning solutions. Its Innovator Program is building tomorrow’s workforce by training students in AI/ML, Robotics, Coding, IoT, and Apps, enabling entrepreneurship through experiential learning.
