There’s no denying we’re in the heart of summer when the calendar turns to July.
Kids are out of school and looking for stuff to do, families are planning vacations and sometimes you just have that random day off and are searching for an activity.
No need to book a flight or keep filling up that gas tank and driving for hours when we’ve got plenty of things for you to do right here in San Diego County.
We’ve compiled an extensive list of more than 100 County activities for you and your families. There are things from babies to older adults and everyone in between. There are even some creative educational activities where the kids might not even realize they’re learning while they’re having fun.
You can learn to make cheese or Indian street food, learn to quill, celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday, hike to the top of a mountain to watch 4th of July fireworks or taste the winning dish in a local Spam cook off. If you’re looking to cool down in a fun way, visit one of our three parks that have water features!
All of the events on this list are free, although some County parks have a $3 parking fee. Reminder: County libraries and some Parks facilities will be closed on July 4.
To find even more activities, visit the events calendar on County News Center.
You can jump right to activities for whatever type of activity you’re looking for:
- Animals
- Arts/Crafts/Hobbies
- Author Visits
- Cooking/Food
- Fitness
- Games and Family Fun
- Gardening/Plants
- Harry Potter
- Hiking
- Musical Performances
- Science and Education
- Storytime at the Library
- Technology
Animals
Zovargo Animal Show
Meet Zovargo’s animal ambassadors in highly interactive shows. You won’t want to miss these fun, educational and animal-filled experiences! El Cajon Library (201 East Douglas Dr., El Cajon) 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 23; Ramona Library (1275 Main St., Ramona) Tuesday, July 23 at 1 p.m.; Lakeside Library (9839 Vine St., Lakeside) Wednesday, July 10 at 3 p.m.
John Abrams Animal Magic
John Abrams presents a blend of magic, comedy, music and live exotic pets in an audience participation extravaganza guaranteed to amaze and amuse. 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 2 at the Vista Library (700 Eucalyptus Ave., Vista); Thursday, July 11, 10:30 a.m. at the Fallbrook Library; Thursday, July 25, 3 p.m. at the Imperial Beach Library (810 Imperial Beach Blvd., Imperial Beach); Tuesday, July 2 at 10 a.m. at the Vista Library, 700 Eucalyptus Ave. Vista); Ramona Library (1275 Main St., Ramona) Tuesday, July 2 at 1 p.m.
Sky Hunters
Join a representative of the Sky Hunters organization to learn about the behaviors of hawks, owls, falcons and eagles. Have you ever wondered what you would do if you found a sick or injured raptor or if there were any laws to protect these magnificent birds? This program is not only educational but also allows you to view these amazing birds closer than you normally would in the wild. Free for campers/$3 parking fee for others. Saturday, July 6 at 5 p.m. William Heise County Park (4945 Heise Rd., Julian).
Raptor Institute
Get up close with live birds of prey such as hawks, falcons and owls during the S.T.E.A.M. Team Raptor Institute presentation at the Encinitas Library (540 Cornish Dr., Encinitas) at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 17. Learn about raptor biology, natural history and conservation.
Hawk Talk
Join park rangers as they present nature’s top predators of the sky: hawks. Learn how they hunt and survive in San Diego and other wilderness areas and see them up close at Hawk Talk at Sweetwater Regional Park (3218 Summit Meadow Rd., Bonita) Sunday, July 7 at 6 p.m.
Bird & Butterfly Garden
Learn all about the butterflies and birds during a one-hour ranger-led nature walk through the Bird & Butterfly Garden at Tijuana River Valley Regional Park (2721 Monument Rd., San Diego) from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 7. Participants will learn about the many birds and butterflies that can be seen in this serene hideaway under the Pacific Flyway – in addition to learning about the native and non-native plants that attract these winged friends. Bring your binoculars.
Magnificent Metamorphosis Explorers
You can also learn about the life cyle of “King of Butterflies,” the Monarch Butterfly, during the Magnificent Metamorphosis Explorer Program at Otay Lakes County Park (2770 Wueste Rd., Chula Vista) on Sunday, July 7 at 2 p.m. RSVP is required at 619-482-7361.
Butterfly/Pollinator Garden
Every Sunday you get a guided tour of the new Butterfly/Pollinator Garden at Lindo Lake County Park (12660 Lindo Lane, Lakeside). Tours start at 2 p.m.
Holistic Vet Care
Learn about Holistic Vet Care and integrated wellness plans for your pets from the San Diego Humane Society’s Dr. Enyart. This discussion will include an in-depth look at using the best of both conventional (Western) and traditional (Eastern, natural) philosophies for our pets’ healthcare. Poway Library (13137 Poway Dr., Poway) Thursday, July 18 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Fascinating Falcons
Meet live native falcons and other birds of prey during Fascinating Falcons at 10 a.m. on Sunday, July 7 at El Monte County Park (15805 El Monte Rd., Lakeside).
Pacific Animal Productions
Enjoy an entertaining and educational exotic animal show to the Fallbrook Library (124 S. Mission Rd., Fallbrook) on Thursday, July 25 at 10:30 a.m.; Solana Beach Library (157 Stevens Ave., Solana Beach) Thursday, July 18 at 10:30 a.m.; Rancho San Diego Library (11555 Via Rancho, El Cajon) Tuesday, July 23 at 10:15 a.m.
Radical Reptiles
Enjoy an educational, hands-on experience with a variety of snakes, lizards, toads, insects and other “creepy-crawlies” at Radical Reptiles. For ages 3 and up. La Mesa Library (8074 Allison Ave., La Mesa). Friday, July 26 at 10:30 a.m.
Art/Crafts/Hobbies
Quilling
Get introduced to the surprisingly creative art form of quilling. Quilling is an art form that involves the use of strips of paper that are rolled, shaped, and glued together to create decorative designs. Supplies will be provided. Adults only. Casa de Oro Library (9805 Campo Rd., #180, Spring Valley) Sunday, July 21, 10 a.m. Also at the Poway Library (13137 Poway Rd., Poway) on Saturday, July 13 at 2 p.m. Class is limited to 15 adults. Sign up in branch or call 858-513-2900.
Crochet Corner
Learn to crochet or teach someone else at the Crochet Corner at the Alpine Library (1752 Alpine Blvd., Alpine) on Wednesdays from 3 to 5 p.m. All ages are welcome. Supplies are available or feel free to bring your own project to work on.
Light Writing Photography
Step up your Instagram game with a light writing photo! Learn this technique with professional photographers from Outside the Lens. Part of the Teen Summer Sunday Series for ages 12-18. Sunday, July 28, 3 p.m. at the El Cajon Library (201 East Douglas Ave.).
Open Mic Night
Here’s your chance to be brave at an all ages community Open Mic Night that aims to build performance skills, confidence and skills, with featured local musicians who are there to help build a positive education-based environment in the community. Bring your own instrument and gear. Casa de Oro Library (9805 Campo Rd., #180, Spring Valley) Thursday July 15, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Kingdom Quilters Sit & Sew
Spend a few hours quilting and benefit children and babies in need both here at home and abroad with the Kingdom Quilters Sit & Sew. Alpine Library (1752 Alpine Blvd., Alpine) Thursday, July 11, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. and Saturday, July 27, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Artist Kene Lohmann
Meet local artist Kene Lohmann. His exhibit, “Watercolor Passion” will be featured in the San Marcos Library (2 Civic Center Dr., San Marcos) through August 31. See a demonstration of his technique and take part in a discussion about his artistic journey on Sunday, July 14 at noon.
Author Visits
Nancy and Julia Glen
It’s a very special story time with local authors Nancy and Julia Glen. Follow Zippy and Orbit on their Encinitas Adventures and then create your own adventure in watercolor! Participants receive a watercolor paint set to take home. Both sessions are free and for families with children of all ages. Encinitas Library (540 Cornish Dr., Encinitas) Saturday, July 19 at 10 a.m. Space is limited. Stop by or call the library (760) 753-7376) to sign up.
J.R. Strayve, Jr.
San Diego author J.R. Strayve, Jr. will share his first novel, First Spouse of the United States, an “extraordinarily germane, vibrant, and timely fiction work that addresses the current socio-political firestorm sweeping the nation.” Lakeside Library (9839 Vine St., Lakeside) Monday, July 1 at 1 p.m.
April Martin Beltz
April Martin Beltz will discuss and sign copies of her book “All About Ilyas: A Story About Raising a Foster Child” (2018). El Cajon Library (201 East Douglas Ave., El Cajon) Saturday, July 20 at 2 p.m.
Cooking/Food
Cheesemaking 101
Join Sadie Rose, a blue-ribbon cheesemaker who creates cheese for some of the best chefs in San Diego for Cheesemaking 101. The class will look into how to make basic cheeses, what makes good cheese so great, where to buy it, and even how to eat it. Alpine Library (1752 Alpine Blvd., Alpine) Thursday, July 18 6 p.m.
Adult Summer Reading Club: Making Empanadas
Learn how to make delicious empanadas with Zulma del Carmen Portillo at the Vista Library (700 Eucalyptus Ave., Vista) on Saturday, July 13 at 1 p.m. Program will be presented in Spanish (presenter is bilingual so she can answer questions in English as well). This program is intended for adults.
National Macaroni and Cheese Day
Celebrate National Macaroni and Cheese Day by sampling some yummy mac and cheese while the kids make macaroni art. Sunday, July 14, 10 a.m. at Louis Stelzer County Park (11470 Wildcat Canyon Rd., Lakeside). There is a $3 parking fee.
Cooking with Spices
Madhu Velji will demonstrate how to prepare India Street Food. You’ll learn about the use of spices in Indian and non-Indian cuisine. Learn how it’s done and try samples. Fallbrook Library (124 S. Mission Rd., Fallbrook) Sunday, July 21 at 2 p.m. Seats are limited, so please RSVP starting July 1st at the reference desk or by calling 760-731-4650.
Ice Cream Socials
The annual Fletcher Hills Library event will feature ice cream and cookies plus performances by local rock band the Alternatives and Free Spirit the Clown. The event will also feature bubbles, chalk art, games and more. Fletcher Hills Library (576 Garfield Ave., El Cajon), Wednesday, July 24 from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.
The Rancho Sante Fe Library celebrates the end of the summer reading program with a social featuring ice cream, Free Spirit the Clown and juggler extraordinaire Michael Raynor. Rancho Sante Fe Community Center (5970 La Sendita, Rancho Santa Fe). Friday, July 26 from 2 to 3:30 p.m.
Cupcake Wars
Do you have what it takes to win the title of best cupcake decorator? Teens, test your skills at our Cupcake Wars challenge! Spring Valley Library (836 Kempton St., Spring Valley) Thursday, July 11 at 1 p.m.
Fahrenheit 641 Cooking Class
Learn how to make “Tapas for Life” during the Fahrenheit 641 cooking class with healthy, easy recipes! For adults only, registration required (760-891-3000). San Marcos Library (2 Civic Center Dr., San Marcos) Wednesday, July 17 1 p.m.
Teen Iron Chef
Do you have what it takes to become the ultimate Teen Iron Chef? Use the “secret” ingredient to defeat everyone else in a cooking challenge. For teens going into grades 6-12. Prizes awarded to the winners. Lakeside Teen Rec Center (9911 Vine St., Lakeside) Tuesday, July 30 from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Spam Cook Off
It’s time for the Annual Public Safety Cook Off and this year’s featured food is Spam. Imperial Beach Library (810 Imperial Beach Blvd., Imperial Beach) Wednesday, July 24 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Fitness
Feel Fit Clubs
With one hour classes that meet two to three times a week, Feeling Fit Clubs are held at 27 locations across the county. They offer older adults a comfortable environment to engage in physical activity as well as develop or maintain their level of physical fitness. There’s the fun social aspect, too!
Tai Chi
Older adults looking to improve their balance, flexibility and strength can take part in Tai Chi classes offered twice a week at seven different locations around the County. Adults of all ages can participate in Intermediate Tai Chi from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and Beginner Tai Chi from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays at the Lakeside Community Center (9841 Vine St., Lakeside).
Youth Yoga
Teenagers can join Angela, one of the youngest yoga instructors in the county, for a Youth Yoga session geared specifically for them at the 4S Ranch Library (10433 Reserve Dr., San Diego) every Sunday at 4 p.m.
Gentle Strength and Restorative Stretch
Fitness beginners are welcome at Gentle Strength and Restorative Stretch held every at 9:45 a.m. every Saturday at the Alpine Library (1752 Alpine Blvd., Alpine). Being your exercise mat and water.
Adult Wheelchair Lacrosse
Adult Wheelchair Lacrosse is a great opportunity for adults of all abilities to connect and recreate. Drop-in and play for free. Equipment is also available at no cost. 4S Ranch Sports Park (16118D 4S Ranch Parkway, San Diego) Sundays, 10 a.m.
Toddler Yoga
Toddler Yoga is stretch and play storytime for toddlers accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Bring your own yoga mat. Come early, due to room size this event is limited to 30 participants. Cardiff-by-the Sea Library (2801 Newcastle Ave., Cardiff-by-the-Sea) Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.
Healthy Aging
The Healthy Aging Series presented by Ridgeview Church highlights age-appropriate fitness with coach Sharon Meredith. Valley Center Library (29200 Cole Grade Rd., Valley Center). Wednesdays, 10 a.m.
Games and Family Fun
Summer Movies in the Park
Pack a picnic or some snacks and take part in a summer tradition in San Diego county. The fun, family-friendly and free Summer Movies in the Park series is showing 38 movies across the region during July. Screenings include “Captain Marvel,” “Aquaman,” “Incredibles 2” and classics like “The Goonies” and “Mary Poppins.” All told, there are 115 showings through Oct. 26. You can check the listings to see the movies and locations for all the screenings.
Waterfront Park
It doesn’t matter if you’re a local or a visitor, the Waterfront Park is a great place to enjoy San Diego. The park features an 830-foot-long fountain with jets for splashing around it or getting your feet wet to cool down on a hot summer day. It’s also a great place to view the fireworks on the 4th of July. There’s also plenty of green space including garden rooms with distinct themes, a vibrant children’s play zone, and several picnic areas. Park hours are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Fountain jets are on 9 a.m. – 9 p.m., daily, except 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Mondays. 1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego.
Chess
Enjoy friendly competition with other chess lovers at the Chess Club at the Borrego Springs Library (2580 Country Club Road, Borrego Springs) every Thursday from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Elementary aged chess club members can practice up for chess tournaments at the ChessKid Academy. 4S Ranch Library (10433 Reserve Dr., San Diego) from 2 to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday July 20 and 27.
Mermaid Friends Parade
Calling all mermaids, pirates and ocean creatures! Wear your costume, make embellishments at the library, and join our Mermaid Friends Parade in the park! All ages are invited and parents, you can come in costume, too! Alpine Library (1752 Alpine Blvd., Alpine) Friday, July 26 from 2 to 3 p.m.
Mini Comic-Con
Meet local comic creators, get free books and posters, play video games and more at the Lakeside Mini Comic-Con. Come dressed as your favorite character for a costume contest. Refreshments will be provided. Free for all ages. Lakeside Library (9839 Vine St., Lakeside) Tuesday, July 16 from 3 to 5 p.m.
Gardening/Plants
Teen Terrariums
Teens can Create Their Own Terrarium with ToshWerks as part of the Teen Summer Sundays Series at the El Cajon Library (201 East Douglas Ave., El Cajon). 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 7. For ages 12 to 18 and limited to the first 15 participants.
Floral Design
Adults can learn how to make a beautiful summer floral design with Suzy Long of the Vista Garden Club at the Vista Library (700 Eucalyptus Ave., Vista) on Wednesday, July 10 at 2:30 p.m. Registration required.
Vegetable Gardening 101
Taught by Master Gardener Karan Greenwald. The Vegetable Gardening 101 class will provide the basics for a successful and bountiful harvest, whether in the ground or in pots. The class will cover location, size, soil preparation, choosing vegetables, irrigation, harvesting and seed saving. La Mesa Library (8074 Allison Ave., La Mesa) Saturday, July 27 at 1 p.m.
Harry Potter
Harry Potter’s Birthday
July 31 would be Harry Potter’s 39th birthday, and you can celebrate all things witch, wizard and muggle at an activity filled party at the El Cajon Library (201 East Douglas Ave., El Cajon) on Tuesday, July 30 at 12:30 p.m.
It’s the 3rd annual Harry Potter and the Astonishing Birthday Ruckus! You’ll be amazed by the Care of Magical Creatures specimens, the carnivorous plants in Herbology, and more. Imperial Beach Library (810 Imperial Beach Blvd., Imperial Beach), Wednesday, July 31 from 5 to 7 p.m.
Celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday with magical games and crafts. Poway Library (13137 Poway Rd., Poway) Tuesday, July 23 at 10 a.m.
Page to Screen Club
July’s selection for the Page to Screen Club is “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” by J K Rowling. Read the book or watch the movie and then come for the lively discussion. Fletcher Hills Library (576 Garfield Ave., El Cajon) Wednesday, July 31 from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.
Taste of Hogwarts
Join the Santee Library and check out the Taste of Hogwarts and sample four different Hogwarts classes. For grades 6 to 12 and a permission slip is required. Santee City Hall (10601 N. Magnolia Ave., Building 7, Santee) Friday, July 26 at 6 p.m.
Potions Class
Make two different potions in Harry Potter’s Potions Class. All materials and supplies provided. Open to teens going into grades 6 – 12. Poway Library (13137 Poway Rd., Poway) Thursday, July 25 at 4 pm.
Hiking
4th of July Star Party
Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the many fireworks displays around county during our 4th of July Star Party at Volcan’s Mountain’s summit. Our friends from the Curiosity Peak Observatory and the Julian Dark Sky Network will meet us at the summit with a variety of telescopes for stargazing after the fireworks. This 5-mile round trip hike is considered strenuous. Bring a fully charged flashlight for the hike back down. Dress in layers and bring a light jacket for after dark. Bring water and snacks for the summit. Park along Farmer Road. 6 to 10 p.m., Thursday, July 4, Volcan Mountain Wilderness Park (1209 Farmer Road, Julian).
Wilderness Gardens Guided Tour
Get a guided tour through Wilderness Gardens, the County’s first open space preserve. A ranger will discuss the fascinating history of the area. Places of historic significance include a grinding stone used by Native Americans and one of the first grist mills in Southern California. Learn about the land, its wildlife and why it was such a lucrative location for early settlers. This 1.5-mile walk is easy and family friendly. After the guided portion, stick around to extend your hike or enjoy a picnic in the beautiful Pauma Valley. There is a $3 parking fee. Wilderness Gardens (14209 Highway 76, Pala), Saturday, July 6, 9 – 10:30 a.m.
Tracks and Scat, What Animal Left That?
Find traces of animal life and do a little detective work. Join a ranger on an easy hike along the creek and on the trails, looking for signs of the animals that call Flinn Springs home. See real samples of both tracks and scat. Questions and photos are encouraged! There is a $3 parking fee. Flinn Springs County Park (14787 Olde Highway 80, El Cajon) Saturday, July 6 10 a.m.
Lake Morena Night Hike
Take a Night Hike with a Ranger while learning all about our nocturnal animals! Lake Morena (2550 Lake Morena Dr., Campo) is alive with wildlife, day and night. Afterhours viewings bring some of the most interesting experiences. Friday, July 12, 8 to 9 p.m. There is a $3 parking fee.
Hike Dictionary Hill
Take a hike with park staff to the summit of Dictionary Hill Open Space Preserve (Ivy St. east of Ramona Ave., Spring Valley) on Sundays, July 14 and 28 at 9 a.m. 360-degree views of San Diego and a rare butterfly ecosystem await you at the top. RSVP required, call 619-644-5492.
Otay Lakes Saturday Hike
Explore Otay Lakes County Park with a Saturday hike. Hike to a beautiful view of Lower Otay Reservoir and Otay Valley and learn about the park’s history, animals and plants. This is an easy-to-moderate hike that spans 1.5 to 2 miles. Meet at the park office. Otay Lakes Park (2770 Wueste Rd., Chula Vista), Saturday, July 20 10:30 a.m. There is a $3 parking fee.
Dairy Mart Loop Trail Hike
Join Ranger Dale for an easy hike on the beautiful Dairy Mart Loop Trail. Learn about some of the Coastal Sage Scrub and
Riparian plants of the Tijuana River Valley and how they were used by Native Americans. You’ll also gain insight on the valley’s permanent bird species and other migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway. Tijuana River Valley Regional Park (2721 Monument Rd., San Diego), Sunday, July 21 10 a.m.
Musical Performances
Encinitas First Sunday Concert
Edward Gabrielyan returns to San Diego and will be playing with his friend, musical mentor and jazz flute icon, Holly Hofmann! Join us for an afternoon of jazz standards in an intimate duo setting. Seating is limited. Encinitas Library (540 Cornish Dr., Encinitas) Sunday, July 7, 2 to 3 p.m.
Hullabaloo
Get jamming with Hullabaloo and have a foot-stomping, wing-flapping celebration of song that will entertain families and kids of all ages. Poway Library (13137 Poway Rd., Poway) Tuesday, July 2 at 10 a.m.; El Cajon Library (201 East Douglas Ave., El Cajon) on Tuesday, July 2 at 12:30 p.m.; Lakeside Library (9839 Vine St., Lakeside) Tuesday, July 9 at 10:30 a.m.; Rancho San Diego Library (11555 Via Rancho, El Cajon) Tuesday, July 16 at 10:15 a.m.; Fletcher Hills Library (576 Garfield Ave., El Cajon) Friday, July 19 at 10:30 a.m.; Waterfront Park (1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego) Sunday, July 28 from 6 to 7 p.m..
Alpine Summer Concerts in the Park
The whole family is invited to bring a blanket or chair and enjoy the Alpine Summer Concerts in the Park. Hear the bluegrass sounds of the Blue Creek Band, on Friday, July 12 at 6:30 p.m. and Graceland featuring Bill Parneau on Friday, July 26 at 6:30 p.m. Concerts are held at the Alpine Community Center Park behind the Alpine Library (1752 Alpine Blvd., Alpine).
Fiddle Girl Celia Lawley
Celia Lawley’s high-energy show can teach you about all different kinds of instruments as well as Julian’s 1870s Gold Rush. It’s a rousing, family-friendly musical engagement you won’t want to miss. William Heise Park (4945 Heise Rd., Julian). There is a $3 parking fee. You can also see her at the San Marcos Library (2 Civic Center Dr., San Marcos) Tuesday, July 30 at 3 p.m.
Bob Freaney and Friends
Local musician Bob Freaney will play and discuss classical music with guest appearances from pianists from the area at the Fallbrook Library (124 S. Mission Rd., Fallbrook) on Thursday, July 25 from 1 to 3 p.m.
Acoustic Showcase
Albert Gonzales is a bilingual musician who will be sharing songs from both sides of the border from norteños to oldies, cumbias to country with his guitar and accordion at the Fallbrook Library (124 S. Mission Rd., Fallbrook) on Sunday, July 7 at 2 p.m.
Cowboy Jack and the North County Cowboys
Enjoy classic country favorites by artists such as Hank Williams Sr, Johnny Cash, and Buck Owens performed by Cowboy Jack and the North County Cowboys. Jack has played classic country songs at theme parks, honky-tonks and even on the Grand Ole Opry. Fallbrook Library (124 S. Mission Rd., Fallbrook) on Thursday, July 18 at 7 p.m.
Alex Koeppel
Spend an Afternoon with Alex Koeppel. After Alex was diagnosed with autism at an early age, he became driven to excel in life. Alex loves playing the piano mastering musical pieces and cover songs. He enjoys playing a variety of music, including Ragtime, Classical, Billy Joel, Beatles, Vince Guarldi, jazz and movie themes. Lakeside Library (9839 Vine St., Lakeside) Saturday, July 20 from 2 to 3 p.m.
Science and Education
Inside Out! The Bug Tour
Did you know that flies taste with their feet? What is the strongest known animal on the planet per its body weight? Check out the S.T.E.A.M. event Inside Out! The Bug Tour at the Encinitas Library (540 Cornish Drive, Encinitas) at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3. Don’t miss this awesome event and learn about many fun creatures with the League of Extraordinary Scientists!
Lunar Learning Experience
July 20, 2019 marks the 50th anniversary of the first humans landing on the Moon in 1969! Celebrate this incredible feat of Science! Join us and Dr. Sooz for this special Lunar Learning Experience at the Encinitas Library (540 Cornish Dr., Encinitas) at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31.
Science Tellers
Combine storytime with some fun science experiences at Science Tellers, Tuesday, July 9, 12:30 p.m. at the El Cajon Library (201 East Douglas Ave., El Cajon).
Robots
Kids ages 10 and up can learn basic electronics, construction and coding with the Bonita-Sunnyside Library’s new Sony Koov Robotic kits. Bonita-Sunnyside Library (Fridays, 3 to 4 p.m. Advance sign-up at the library is required to reserve a spot. Children and teens can build robots using motors and blocks at the Borrego Springs Library (2580 Country Club Road, Borrego Springs) at 1 p.m. on Friday, July 5. Tweens (grades 2 – 6) can learn about Arduino Robots and build a robot project at the RoboThink: Robotics Workshop at the Rancho San Diego Library (11555 Via Rancho, El Cajon Saturday, July 13 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registration is required as space is limited.
Star Party
Join park rangers and the San Diego Astronomy Association for an evening of stargazing, astronomy and nighttime fun at the Oakoasis Star Party at Oakoasis Preserve (12620 Wildcat Canyon Rd., Lakeside) from 8 to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 13. Arrive at sunset for a twilight hike to search for bats and scorpions! Adults can geek out on astronomy and everyone will enjoy s’mores.
Fleet Science Center: Fantastic Forces
Fantastic Forces introduces students to friction, forces, and the laws of motion. After experimenting with parachutes, students design and build roller coasters to investigate the fundamental laws of physics. For Tweens only (Grades 2-6). Space is limited and registration at the library is required. Rancho San Diego Library (11555 Via Rancho, El Cajon). Saturday, July 27 from 11 a.m to 12:30 p.m.
Deaf Night: American Sign Language Meet Up
Meet up with friends to sign and hang out at Deaf Night: American Sign Language Meet Up. Practice ASL, learn new words, and make new friends. Open to ages 12 and up. Lemon Grove Library (3001 School Lane, Lemon Grove). Thursday, July 11 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Bees and Pollinators
Jeremy Pearson, local 4H volunteer and beekeeper, will present on the importance of bees and pollinators at the Fallbrook Library (124 S. Mission Rd., Fallbrook) Thursday, July 11 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Preschool S.T.E.A.M. Storytime
Children ages 3-5 will hear stories, songs, and learn some science, technology, engineering, art, and math at Preschool S.T.E.A.M. Storytime. Kids have fun while learning early literacy skills to prepare them for Kindergarten. Lakeside Library (9839 Vine St., Lakeside). Thursday, July 18 at 10:30 a.m.
Totally Tidepools
Life is tough in the tidepools! Children will discover some of the crazy ways animals stay safe at the Live Coast’s Totally Tidepools. We will put on our claws, suction cups or feet and walk, swim or crawl to discover what amazing adaptations help animals survive. Full of movement, animal encounters and a discovery table. For tweens only (Grades 2-6). Registration at the library is required and space is limited. Rancho San Diego Library (11555 Via Rancho, El Cajon) Saturday, July 20 at 11 a.m.
Storytime at the Library
Astronaut Storytime
Go to space with Astronaut Storytime and Training Course. An astronaut themed storytime followed by an obstacle course activity. Rancho Santa Fe Library (17040 Avenida de Acacias, Rancho Santa Fe) Tuesday, July 9 at 10:30 a.m.
Baby Splish Splash
Taking reading outdoors with Baby Splish Splash. An outdoor storytime for babies and toddlers that includes water play. Please dress the child in swim wear or bring an extra change of clothing. Rancho Santa Fe Library (17010 Avenida de Acacias, Rancho Santa Fe) Wednesdays, July 10 and 24 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Doggie Tales
Storytime is going to the dogs with Doggie Tales at the Encinitas Library (540 Cornish Dr., Encinitas) at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, July 10. Kids can make furry friends and practice reading skills with certified therapy dogs.
Preschool Storytime Imagination Station
Enjoy songs and stories followed by activities to inspire creativity for ages 3 to 5 during the Preschool Storytime Imagination Station at the Alpine Library (1752 Alpine Blvd., Alpine) Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.
Kamishibai
Storybox is the American name we have given to the Japanese storytelling tradition called Kamishibai. A storyteller stands behind a little wooden theatre and reveals a series of illustrations as he narrates a story, doing all the characters’ voices and the many sound effects. Vista Library (700 Eucalyptus Ave., Vista) Thursday, July 18, 3:30 p.m. Also at the Lakeside Library (9839 Vine St., Lakeside) Wednesday, July 17 at 3 p.m. Children will hear a Japanese story through Kamishibai storytelling. Children will learn how to create their own story, learn about the Japanese culture with refreshments.
M&M Storytime
Music & Movement is a lively hour every Tuesday for children ages 5 and under and their caregivers to explore musical instruments, dances, songs, and stories. Valley Center Library (29200 Cole Grade Rd., Valley Center) Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.
Stuffed Animal Sleepover
Bring your favorite stuffed buddy to meet and greet others at the Stuffed Animal Sleepover. Hear stories, do a craft, and have a snack with your buddy. Most of all have fun! Your stuffed friend will spend the night at the library and when you come to pick up your stuffed friend the next day, see what kind of trouble they were up to. Lakeside Library (0830 Vine St., Lakeside) Wednesday, July 3 from 3 to 4:15 p.m.
Priority Parenting
Join Encinitas Library singing and story and music time teacher Laura Greer for Priority Parenting with Ms. Laura. She’s taking all the parenting tips and tools she offers between songs and stories and offering them in a fun, interactive parent-only class focused on those with newborn to three-year-olds. 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. every Wednesday in July at the Encinitas Library (540 Cornish Dr., Enicinitas).
Technology
Interactive Technology and Health Fair
Older adults and adults with disabilities can learn about all the latest technology at an Interactive Technology and Health Fair at the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA (151 YMCA Way, San Diego) on Thursday, July 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Health screenings will also be available, and breakfast and lunch is provided. To register, call (619) 236-6905.
Tech Help
Need help with your tech gadgets? Frustrated by the setting on your cellphone? Head to the Tech Help Hour at the Campo-Morena Village Library (31356 Highway 94, Campo) Wednesdays from 10 to 11 a.m.; Casa de Oro Library (9805 Campo Road #180, Spring Valley) has Personalized Tech Support by appointment on Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; stop by the Tech Help Drop In at the Alpine Library (1752 Alpine Blvd., Alpine) Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m.; check out One-on-One Computer Help for adults at the Jacumba Library every Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
