Katie Moore, Author at L.A. Parent

September Book Corner: Being the Best You You Can Be

Published September 1, 2022

By Katie Moore

Merci Suárez Plays it Cool

By Meg Medina

“Merci Suárez Plays it Cool” is the third and final book in Meg Medina’s Merci Suárez series. As she takes on her eighth grade year, Merci must navigate the usual tween awkwardness and sports team drama, but also grapple with the family health crises and loss. Kids of all ages should be sure to read this amazing conclusion to Medina’s hit series, especially your middle schoolers who might be looking for someone to relate to. Available Sept. 13.

123s of Kindness

By Patricia Hegarty, Illustrated By Summer Macon

Learning kindness can be as easy as 1, 2, 3! This board book is the perfect introduction for your little ones to the world of kindness and sharing that is also accompanied by other educational aspects. With heartwarming illustrations and an easy to follow concept, the “123s of Kindness” fosters social-emotional development and is of course a great bedtime story. Available Sept. 20.

The Amazing Baby Name Book: A (Possibly) Helpful and Slightly Amusing Guide from A to Z

By Amy Ephron, Maia Wapnick, & Anna Ephron Harari

With the help of her daughters Anna and Maia, Amy Ephron brings a curated list of names both common and completely unknown that will ease the minds of any parent-to-be. Accompanied by delightful illustrations, “The Amazing Baby Name Book” brings humor, historical context, and bonus fun facts to the world of naming. With excellent reviews, this book is a gold mine of knowledge for all — whether you’re having a baby or coming up with character names for your new TV show. Available September 6.

Dax to the Max: Imagination

By Scott Feld

“Dax to the Max: Imagination” is the first book in Scott Feld’s Dax to the Max series inspired by his 6 year old son, Dax. This heartfelt story celebrates the hidden superpowers of imagination and encourages kids to fully tap into their creativity. When you have a positive attitude and remember that you can do anything, your imagination will run wild and no kid will be stopped.

Buddha and the Rose

By Mallika Chopra, Illustrated by Neha Rawat

According to author Mallika Chopra, “Buddha and the Rose” is adapted from one of Buddha’s famous talks and is told from the perspective of a milkmaid named Sujata, who could be considered one of his first students. This subtle yet powerful story highlights the importance of our connection to the natural world and the universe at large, and also emphasizes the joy of being present. This book is designed for 4-8 year olds and can be a great tool for talking through the range of emotions kids that age feel. “Buddha and the Rose” will be available Sept. 6.

For more book suggestions, check out our August Book Corner.

Plan Your Perfect Labor Day Weekend

Published August 24, 2022

By Katie Moore

Even though kids are heading back to school, we here at L.A. Parent want you to end summer on a high note. Not sure what to do with your last days of vacation? Well, this Labor Day weekend there are tons of fun events going on in L.A. that will bring the perfect opportunity for some end-of-summer fun. Read below and see how you can soak up the sun and start your September right.

Sounds of Summer

Does your family love live music? If so, be sure to check out the first ever “Live at The Music Center” concert on Sept. 3 at 8 p.m. This outdoor concert will be headlined by Grammy Award winning band Ozomatli and will also feature an opening set by the L.A. based band Peanut Butter Wolf. Oh, and did we mention the concert is free? To take advantage of this great musical opportunity be sure to check out the event website and book your tickets soon.

Conductor John Williams. PHOTO COURTESY HOLLYWOOD BOWL

For our music fans who also love movies, be sure to check out Maestro of the Movies, a weekend concert event celebrating the work of John Williams at the Hollywood Bowl. Each concert will be conducted by John Williams himself (who just turned 90!) accompanied by David Newman and the LA Phil. Concert-goers will hear music from some of William’s most iconic scores such as “Star Wars,” “Harry Potter,” and “Indiana Jones” and may even see some movie clips featured above the orchestra. Purchase tickets here for one of these one-of-a-kind performances happening this Labor Day weekend.

Live it up in Long Beach

Mural by Andrea James. PHOTO COURTESY LONG BEACH WALLS

For those looking to spend the weekend in Long Beach, you won’t want to miss the Long Beach Walls and Art Renzei Festival happening Aug. 29 through Sept. 4. The festival will feature 24/7 viewing of the murals, food tastings and bike tours, and all come to a glorious finale with the KCRW Summer Nights Closing Party on Sept. 4. This year’s theme for the festival is “Stand Up” focuses on celebrating the diversity of women in art; and trust us, between the interactive installations and insane woman-created DJ sets, there will be plenty to celebrate.

A Weekend on the Water

If you’re planning on traveling south and looking for some fun in the sun, head over to Campland on the Bay in San Diego. Campland is a destination RV resort and campground that has their schedules packed with activities and live performances all Labor Day weekend. Events include dodgeball tournaments, a giant waterslide, tie dye, and special Campland Rocks concert performances. Note that these awesome activities are only available to Campland and Mission Bay RV Resort guests, so be sure to book your stay in advance if you want to join in the fun.

PHOTO COURTESY NEWPORT DUNES WATERFRONT RESORT

For those planning on staying more local, also on the water this weekend is the Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, which will be hosting aquatic adventures and live entertainment Sept. 2-5. Listen to the Tunes on the Dunes concert from the comfort of your beach chair while the kids check out the massive Inflatable Water Park complete with trampolines and a 17-foot mega slide. There will be food trucks for those who get hungry, and camping access for those looking to make it more than a day trip — all in all the perfect end of summer getaway.

Keep it Chill-i

Wanna eat good this Labor Day weekend? Then you should definitely head over to the 40th Annual Malibu Chili Cook Off. This community centric extravaganza is the perfect combination of music, carnival rides, artisans, and of course, chili. There will also be live music featuring local DJ’s and other bands who will provide plenty of entertainment all weekend long. And, what’s even better is this event gives back to the community in many ways, including donating all proceeds from the Chili Cook-Off to the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu. If you’re looking for family fun this is definitely the weekend spot for you, so check out their website and buy your presale tickets now because tickets will not be available on site. Also note that carnival ride passes and tickets are sold separately.

We hope you’ve had a fantastic summer and can’t wait to share our upcoming back-to-school content with you. If you enjoyed this article and decided to check out some of the events above, feel free to post on social media and follow and tag us @laparentmag. We love seeing all your photos!

Spotlight: Meet Giavanni and Cast from KIDZ BOP LIVE 2022 Tour

Published August 22, 2022

By Katie Moore

The KIDZ BOP kids are back on tour this year featuring an amazing cast of performers, including newcomer Giavanni. An 11 year-old L.A. native, Giavanni has taken center stage singing and dancing to family-friendly versions of today’s pop hits. When she’s not performing, you can catch her practicing her gymnastics skills. Read below to hear more from this up-and-coming superstar and her all-star cast mates.

Tell us a bit about your background in dance and music.

Giavanni: I’ve had a passion for dance and music since I was around 2 or 3 years old. A lot of this came about because of my older sister who started to dance before me, and I always wanted to try too! I enrolled in dance at the same school as her. We would always create dance routines together and perform them in front of our parents.

My desire to sing was also there at a young age. I remember my parents playing Aretha Franklin, and I would sing along; that’s when I knew that singing was something I truly loved to do.

We’ve heard you’re also super passionate about gymnastics! Do you get to use those skills in KIDZ BOP? How have you been able to keep up with gymnastics?

Giavanni: I have been able to use my gymnastics skills in KIDZ BOP – I still participate in gymnastics through weekly classes and continue to work on my skills at home.

What inspired you to audition for and join the KIDZ BOP kids?

Egan: My love for performing made it a no brainer!

Dominic: I grew up watching KIDZ BOP videos and once I got close to the audition age it was a goal of mine!

Layla: I’ve always listened to KIDZ BOP – I would dance and sing to their music with my siblings! I also love performing so KIDZ BOP is an amazing opportunity!

Cami: I have always loved to dance, sing, and perform and KIDZ BOP is a great way to do all of it!

Giavanni: I used to jam out to KIDZ BOP in the car when I was younger, watch all the music videos, and imagine myself singing and dancing along with the kids. It felt so natural during the audition – as if this was something I was meant to do!

Have you enjoyed being on tour with KIDZ BOP? Any favorite memories?

Egan: My favorite memory so far would have to be seeing the reaction of the kids while we perform.

Dominic: One of my favorite memories was going to Hershey’s Chocolate World before our Hershey Park show. We got to learn about the history and enjoy tasty treats.

Layla: Tour is incredible! Every show is so special and one of my favorite memories is having a dance party before we hit the stage!

Cami: I have loved it! It’s been incredible and one of my favorite memories is being on the bus with my friends.

Do you have any mentors that have helped you on your popstar journey?

Egan: My dance director was an incredible mentor to me. My mom has also given me amazing advice along the way.

Dominic: My dance mentors helped me when I started dancing and wanted to continue to perform.

Giavanni: There have been so many people that have consistently supported and encouraged me, which has helped give me the confidence I needed throughout this journey. I definitely have to thank my parents for believing in me and preparing me for this amazing experience.

Layla: All of my studio teachers helped me train to get where I am today, and my parents had a big impact on pushing me to be my best!

2022 LIVE Tour – PHOTO COURTESY of KIDZ BOP

What’s been your favorite part so far about being a KIDZ BOP Kid?

Giavanni: I would have to say the best part of being a KIDZ BOP Kid is meeting new people and hanging out with my KIDZ BOP family. We have so much fun together and really enjoy spending time together. Also, I love recording songs, and watching the new videos that are released.

Egan: I would have to say going on tour this summer has been a dream come true!

Dominic: My favorite part has been being able to travel around the USA and perform for all of our supporters. Exploring new places I haven’t been too before is great.

Layla: My favorite part about being a KIDZ BOP Kid is meeting all of our amazing supporters!

Cami: Getting to do videos and being on tour with my friends and meeting all of our fans!

When not on stage, what’s your favorite thing to do to kick back and relax?

Egan: I love playing the guitar, trying to learn new songs.

Dominic: One of my favorite things to do while not on stage is playing video games with my little brothers.

Layla: When I am not on stage, I love to do art – drawing helps me relax!

Cami: Being with my family and taking acting classes.

Do you have any advice for other kids who might want to go into music and dance? Any words of encouragement?

Egan: Keep persevering, never give up! As long as you keep training hard, you will be ready for anything.

Dominic: Some advice I would give is if you are passionate about something; practice a lot, learn a lot, and never give up.

Layla: Keep practicing every day and if you work hard and are determined, you can do anything you put your mind to!!

Cami: Keep working on your talent and never give up!

Giavanni: Have fun. It’s important to be happy and enjoy what you are doing. Also, never compare yourself to others because you are unique and special in your own way!

Find Your Perfect California Getaway this Summer

Published July 21, 2022

By Katie Moore

Want to take a vacation but only have a few days to spare and don’t want to blow all your money on plane tickets? We know how stressful planning vacations can be, especially if you have toddlers with lots of enthusiasm, and teens with little to none. But we’ve got you covered with some amazing travel spots all here in our lovely state of California. There are so many things to see and do, and the best part is they’re easy to get to. Whether you’re looking to be in the mountains or on the beach, read below and find your perfect California getaway.

Chill on the Coast

The Skunk Train chugging through Fort Bragg

Whether you’re in NorCal or SoCal, there are plenty of coastal getaways for families who love being by the water. For those looking to travel up north, the city of Fort Bragg is home to some of the Mendocino Coast’s greatest treasures including Glass Beach and the beloved Skunk Train! This year the Skunk Train is offering a variety of events, including Cinema in the Redwoods, a night of cinema classics under the stars and the trees, and Music in the Redwoods, a collection of live bands that perform on the platform as you ride the train. All of these amazing experiences are just a train ride away, and you can check out more on their website.

For families who want to stay near L.A. for a day trip to the beach, the beaches in Ventura have it all. You can watch a beautiful sunset out on the Ventura Beach Pier, catch some waves and take a surf lesson or two, and even check out the Ventura County Fair happening Aug. 3 – 14. Ventura is also home to many dog-friendly beaches for those who want to bring a furry friend on vacation, too. The Board of Port Commissioners announced that lifeguards will be back and present daily at Ventura Harbor beaches, so families can fully relax and enjoy the sun knowing their safety is a priority.

Make the Most of the Mountains

We southern Californians know how important it is to beat the heat in the scorching summer, but how about we up the elevation rather than the air conditioning. Big Bear Lake is a quick and easy drive from L.A., and this year they aren’t just offering fun in the winter. If you’re heading up the mountain, be sure to check out Alpine Slide Big Bear, a cool family-fun spot that’s home to water rides and various track coasters. The variety of activities offered — from the higher speed Mineshaft Coaster to the easy going mini-golf course — is sure to suit families with kids of all ages. You could also round out your trip to Big Bear Lake with a visit to the Big Bear Alpine Zoo (one of only two alpine zoos in the U.S.), or on a hike on one of the many trails with amazing lookout points.

Want to extend your mountain travels? Well, right down the road from Big Bear Lake there is more fun to be had at Lake Arrowhead, home to the Lake Arrowhead Village, which is hosting tons of events all summer long. Their summer concert series runs every weekend until Labor Day and offers both standing room and picnic table seating all with great views of center stage. The Village is also home to the docking point of the Lake Arrowhead Queen, a small river boat that offers hourly tours of the lake and the beautiful houses surrounding it. You’ll get to see the lake from a whole different perspective and get a chance to learn about the town’s history on this one of a kind narrated tour on the water.

Apples and Cider and Wine… Oh My!

Whether you’re looking for a romantic parents’ getaway to one of over 400 of the county’s wineries, or a festive family visit to a local small town, Sonoma County is the perfect in-state vacation spot. This year the town of Sebastopol, CA, is bringing back the Gravenstein Apple Fair at Ragle Ranch Regional Park on Aug. 13 and 14. This year’s theme for the fair is “Cultivating Community” and will be the anchor for the 24 live musical acts, hundreds of family-friendly activities and of course some of the most delicious fair food and locally sourced wines. The fair will also feature “Life on the Farm” attractions, complete with farming discussion panels, jam and cider-making demos and an animal meet and greet area for the kids.

Summer in San Diego

Just a two hour drive from L.A., San Diego has plenty of opportunities for family fun. For those looking to enjoy live music this summer, the San Diego Symphony is the oldest orchestra and is hosting quite the lineup of special guests, including Boyz II Men, Jennifer Hudson, and Elvis Costello. The symphony will hold their concerts at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, a state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue right on the waterfront. Another great and unique attraction is the Del Mar Racetrack, the nation’s only seaside racetrack with a beachy vibe all its own. The racetrack has something for everyone, whether it’s a premium view of the ocean, the thrill of 100 mph racers or cocktails to sip while you sit. Racing season runs from July 22 to Sept. 11, so better get a trip planned and buy your tickets now.

You can also bring a little nostalgia and a lot of fun to your summer with a trip to Sesame Place San Diego, a theme park dedicated to the iconic show, “Sesame Street,” packed with rides, water slides, parades and more. Families of all ages, but especially little ones, can enjoy everything from a ride on Elmo’s Rockin Rockets to the “Welcome To Our Street!” show. Also nearby Sesame Place, adventure awaits at SeaWorld San Diego. This year, SeaWorld is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Wild Arctic exhibit, home to Chou Chou the walrus, Klondike the beluga whale and other amazing animals. Want to get up close and personal with these one-of-a-kind creatures? SeaWorld is offering a summer special price of $55 a ticket on weekdays, and they’ve also joined forces with Sesame Place to offer two-day park packages at special discounted prices.

We know this isn’t an exhaustive list, but we hope it’ll kickstart some of your vacation imagination. Read this article, decided to take a trip to one of the mentioned destinations, and posted about it on social media? Go ahead and tag us or use our #LAParentTravels to share your family fun!

We Love It: Products for Kids of All Ages

Published July 6, 2022

By Elena Epstein

TRVL

With the touch of a button on the push bar, this stroller self-folds into a super-compact, free-standing package. Ultra-lightweight and easy to carry with the arm bar when folded — or go hands-free and store away in carry bag when traveling. $449.95, for children up to 50 pounds. nunababy.com

REMI

Lightweight, portable playard that sets up and folds down in seconds. A unique perforated design makes the mattress breathable, creating a comfy, healthy place to rest and play. Features a zip-down access panel to help you soothe your baby or retrieve a pacifier gone rogue. $349.99, birth up to 30 pounds. uppababy.com

Peek-A-Boo Convertible Hobo Backpack

Switching out your diaper bag from one style to another is simple with this one-of-a-kind design. Go from a hobo shoulder bag to a crossbody to a backpack with just a few adjustments. It can be hung atop a stroller or luggage handle. $165, twelvelittle.com

Molly Tulle Dress

A little bit of dress and a little bit of play merge in this adorable and comfortable find featuring a drop waist jersey cotton top/tulle skirt. $48, sizes 2-8, sammyandnat.com

Essentials Bundle

Super cozy, fastener-free and fully reversible providing a 2-for-1 design, this bundle comes in the cocoon swaddle, winged bodysuit and beanie options. $108, buymamacoco.com

Geddy’s Mom USB Charger Covers

Keep your charger’s hazardous end safely contained with this baby-proofing device. The child-resistant, adult-friendly closure allows you access when it’s time to charge your electrical device. $12.95, geddysmom.com

Get Outside Camper

Hit the open road with this 25+ piece teardrop-shaped camper outfitted with everything you need for outdoor adventures — working lights, adjustable speaker, a skylight, a flip-down table, kitchen and a couch that converts to a bed that fits two dolls. $325, ages 8+, americangirl.com

Dinosaur Adventure Backpack

Enjoy hours of prehistoric play with this sturdy backpack that comes with eight realistic dinosaurs, accessories and a large foldout play scene. The roomy, zippered compartment has space for all the pieces and kids’ extra belongings, making it easy to pack and go. $49.99, ages 3+, lakeshorelearning.com

SwimWays Swim Huggable

Go on a swimming adventure with these cuddly, stuffed floating toys made of a material that dries quickly. $14.99, ages 12 months+, target.com

Glitter Girls Hair Salon

Comes with everything you need to create fabulous styles in your salon. Discover fun ‘dos and enjoy hours of creative play with this thoughtfully designed set that features a swivel cutting chair, washing station and a rolling cart to hold the beautifying tools. $49.99, ages 3+, myglittergirls.com

Scoops Ice Cream Truck

With this set, every ride is a sweet ride. Adorable design and accessories include a blender, soft-serve cones, sundaes, rooftop pop-up menu, lights and sounds. $29.99, ages 3+, woodzeez.com

Tac Tac Jack

Be the best lumberjack by hitting the tree with the axe to gather bark blocks. This fun game for the entire family challenges you to avoid removing the Core Blocks, so chop carefully! $24.99, entire family, foxmind.com

Skillmatics Guess in 10 Animal Planet

Is it a carnivore? A domestic animal? Does it live in groups? This is a fun card game that can be played anytime, anywhere. $14.97, ages 6+, amazon.com

Toomies Jurassic World

Bring the wonders of dinosaurs to a new generation! The vehicles are inspired by the iconic films and promote core toddler motor skills. $9.99-$22.99, ages 12+, us.tomy.com

Father’s Day Fun for the Whole Family

Published June 13, 2022

By Katie Moore

At L.A. Parent, we know how important it is to celebrate all of the father figures in our lives, and this Father’s Day we want to make sure you get to celebrate yours! Below you will find a list of amazing events and activities that families can do with and for their dads this year in and around L.A.

Outdoor Dads

PHOTO COURTESY South Coast Botanic Garden

Is your dad a garden guy? Then he’ll love the South Coast Botanic Garden’s Father’s Day in the Garden – Blooms, Brats and Beer. The event will be held amidst the garden’s amazing fern collection near the Living Wall from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on June 19. Yard games will be set up for those looking to challenge their dads to a bean bag toss battle, and food will be available for purchase throughout the event. The event is free and open to the public when you purchase a timed entry ticket to the garden.

Reading With Dad

The Penguin Young Readers club has put together a great list of Father’s Day classics for readers of all ages. Some titles include the animal themed board books “I Love My Daddy Because…” by Laurel Porter-Gaylord and the spinoff classic “I Love Dad, with the Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle. Other heartwarming titles include “Daddy Speaks Love” by Leah Henderson, the intergenerational story of “Grandpa and Jake” by Julie Forntenberry, or the superhero adventure of a daughter saving her dad in “My Hero” by Brian Biggs. Seeing as June is also PRIDE month, Penguin is also centering LGBTQIA+ stories, including “Different Kinds of Fruit,” which tells a story of a sixth grader finding out her dad is transgender. For more amazing titles featured on the Father’s Day list, click here!

Driving Dads

If your dad is a motor man, he’ll love the 27th Annual Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance car show happening June 19 over in Beverly Hills. The event is free and offers families a chance to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most luxurious vehicles. This year’s show will also feature a car rally through the streets of Beverly Hills so you’ll also get a chance to see the cars in action. And, for dads looking to show off any luxury cars they may have, they can submit their car for possible participation in the event here.

Farms and Fathers

For all of the animal-loving dads, and for those who are looking to give back this Father’s Day, The Gentle Barn has the perfect opportunity. With a donation of $10 or more — which will go towards the barns’ special programs which offer healing spaces in the presence of animals to trauma victims and veterans — you’ll receive a printed card with one of the barns’ animal “dads” featured on the front. Donations will be made in your dads’ name and will be an amazing way to show your support for the farm’s dads: Merlin the goat, Magic the Horse and Chico the cow.

Dancing with Dad

This summer, Grand Performances, the longest running presenter of free concerts in Downtown L.A., is hosting a series of amazing outdoor performances, including a special Father’s Day event. For Father’s Day weekend (June 15 at 2 p.m.) GP invites families with young children for a special early-afternoon celebration. The concert is free and open to all ages and will feature music by Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band and kids’ dancing with DJ KG Superstar.

Fatherly Films

The American Cinematheque is putting together a special series of Father’s Day screenings called “I Guess You’ve Noticed Something A Little Stranger With Dad.” The Cinematheque is made up of the Aero Theater and the Los Feliz 3 Theater, and each will be featuring films centered around dads. Each screening costs $8 for members and $13 for general admission and tickets can be purchased here, along with a list of all the featured films.

Dad’s One Stop Shop

PHOTO COURTESY AMERICANA AT BRAND

The Americana at Brand, The Commons at Calabasas and Palisades Village want you to have the perfect Father’s Day at one of their locations. Each property is filled with a variety of shops and restaurants which make the perfect spot for a brunch with the whole family. Each location offers different options, including movie theaters, steak houses, menswear outlets and more. Be sure to check out each locations’ website, and book your reservations at one of their restaurants well in advance to ensure an excellent Father’s Day experience.

These are just a few of the ways you can celebrate your dads this year, but be on the lookout for any more events featured on our website. Wishing a wonderful Father’s Day to all!

How to show your Pride in L.A. this June

Published June 6, 2022

By Katie Moore

“Lanterns of Love” installation at Santa Monica Place. PHOTO BY MATHEW TUCCIARONE

June is Pride Month and there is tons to look forward to this year as we celebrate our friends and loved ones who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Want to be involved in events and show your PRIDE, but aren’t sure where to start? Well, we’ve got you covered! Here is a roundup of some family-friendly events to check out in and around L.A. during Pride Month.

Second Annual Pride Paddle

This year, the Southbay LGBTQ Center is partnering once again with The Portofino Hotel & Marina to put on the Pride Paddle at the King Harbor Marina from 10 – 12 p.m. on Sunday, June 26. Paddleboarders will launch around 10:30 a.m., and for those who are beginners, assistance and instruction will be provided. Then, after the paddle, The Portofino will host a lunch at Baleen Kitchen where specialty drinks will be provided during a happy our from which 10% of all proceeds will be donated to the Southbay LGBTQ Center. This event is a great way to have a some fun and show your PRIDE by donating.

Attend a Festival or Parade

This year’s in-person PRIDE festival, “LA Pride in the Park” will be held on Saturday, June 11, and will be headlined by none other than Christina Aguilera. The festival will feature a variety of artists and is open to all ages, and tickets can be purchased here. Then the following day, June 12, is the LA Pride Parade, which will be held at its birthplace in Hollywood, where the first LGBTQ+ parade was held in 1970. Attendance at the parade is free and is a great way to support and be supported by members of the community, and is of course open to all ages.

PRIDE in Santa Monica

For those in the Santa Monica area, or for those just looking to spend more time at the beach, be sure to check out the Made With PRIDE Marketplace happening every weekend in June. The marketplace will showcase LGBTQIA+ business owners whose goods and services are all created and curated in southern California, and offers them a chance to share their work with the community. The marketplace will also feature food and live DJ’s each weekend, and will be open all day every Friday through Sunday in June. The event will take place at 395 Santa Monica Place, at the Broadway and Third Street Promenade on level one in Nordstrom court.

“Miles of Pride” installation lights up Third Street Promenade. PHOTO BY MATHEW TUCCIARONE

Also in Santa Monica, Downtown Santa Monica Inc. (DTSM) will be hosting their own live events at the Third Street Promenade on the weekend of June 17-19. The events will include a special installment by The Mortified Podcast, a high energy dance aerobics class called Dancing with Dane and a shopping opportunity at the Angel City Market outdoor bazaar. This weekend event is also anchored by “Miles of Pride,” which is a light installation that spans the promenade. To get the full rundown of when each event will take place during the weekend, visit the DTSM website for more information.

Show Your Prehistoric PRIDE

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County will be hosting its first ever Queer Family Day on Saturday June 11, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature a dino-themed scavenger hunt around the museum, a dino dance party, a drag queen story time, and special behind the scenes looks at museum exhibits and collections that center and celebrate gender. The event is free with museum admission, and guests are encouraged to wear all green to show off their nature-loving pride.

‘Archiving Gay History’ — A Virtual Event

On June 23 from 4-5 p.m., The Fowler, The UCLA Film & Television Archive and ONE Archives at USC are co-presenting a screening and panel of “PRIDE at The Fowler: Archiving Gay History.” The event will feature a conversation on art and intersectionality highlighting the work of filmmaker Whitney Skauge and artist Sadie Barnette, whose content centers around stories about the lives of gay Black activists. This is a virtual event and folks can RSVP for the link to the conversation online.

Read with Penguin Pride

Finally, Penguin Young Readers is excited to celebrate Pride with families through literature as they spotlight stories written by and centering members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Here are some books to check out this month:

“Calvin” by Vanessa Ford and JR Ford tells the story of a transgender boy’s first day of school as he introduces his classmates to his true self for the first time.

“Kapaemahu” by Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu tells the story of an indigenous legend about how four individuals of both male and female spirit brought healing arts to Hawaii.

“Last Night at the Telegraph Club” by Malinda Lo tells a historical love story set in a Chinatown lesbian bar in 1954, and is a great read for young adults.

These are just a handful of the great family-friendly stories Penguin Young Readers has collected and you can see even more titles listed here.

While we’ve given you a few events, there is always plenty to do to show your Pride. Be on the lookout for more events listed on our website throughout the month!

Resources for Students

The organization Families in Schools has rounded up a page of LGTBQ+ resources for families, children, and young adults/college students, such as virtual support groups, suggested reading, safety resources and more.