Wednesday, June 30, 2010

4th of July Events

Kristin’s Kickbacks July 4th Ideas

FREE Events

Warner Center Park in Woodland Hills. Show begins at 5 p.m. and fireworks start at 9 p.m. Patriotic Music will be performed by a group called Mrs. Robinson. Food vendors will be there. Limited parking, consider taking the Orange Line. www.valleycultural.org

Near Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Hour long fireworks show starts at 8:45p.m. 3911 S. Figueroa St. Parking available at 39th and Figueroa St., Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and Hoover St. and at USC campus. This free fireworks show launched from near the LA Memorial Coliseum is not actually in the Coliseum, but can be viewed from areas around Exposition Park including from Christmas Tree Lane or from the south lawn. Bring blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy the show.

Traditional fireworks extravaganza over the main channel in Marina del Rey programmed to patriotic music broadcast over FM radio KXLU, 88.9 and relayed over loudspeakers in Chase Park at 9 p.m. 13650 Mindanao Way (1 block west of Admiralty Way), Marina del Rey. Also viewable from Fisherman's Village and Marina Beach.
Info: 310-305-9545, http://www.visitmarinadelrey.com/sg/july_4/index.html


Rancho Santa Susana Community Park, 2 PM to 10 PM. 5005 E. Los Angeles Ave., Simi Valley, 93063. The free festivities will begin at 2:00 p.m., with many activities that will entertain the entire family. Bring your family and friends, and don't forget your lawn chairs and blankets. Come share your Independence Day with us and enjoy a fun-filled day with live music, children’s play areas, and great food, all culminating with a spectacular fireworks display.

Santa Clarita. Approx. 9:15 p.m. CITY OF SANTA CLARITA FIREWORKS SHOW at Westfield Valencia Town Center; to be shot off from the roof of the parking lot above Buca del Beppo restaurant. No other entertainment at this venue. Also: Fireworks over Stevenson Ranch and Castaic Lake.

4th of July Street Fair on Main Street in Downtown Ventura. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Free Shuttle Station: 800 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura, 93009. This popular annual event attracts up to 50,000 people to Downtown Ventura and features 300 artisans, food booths, nonprofit organizationdisplays, and five stages of continuous live entertainment.
INFO: 805-654-7830, www.venturastreetfair.com

16th Annual Independence Day Celebration at Hansen Dam Recreation Area from 12 noon to 10 p.m. 11770 Foothill Blvd., Lake View Terrace. A holiday celebration in the San Fernando Valley featuring music and other live entertainment, food, and fireworks. Booths offer information about safety, health, community resources, and more. Come take a swim in the 1.5-acre swim lake available for use during the day. Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic.
INFO: 818-899-8087, www.laparks.org

7th Annual Vision Outside 4th of July Jazz and Blues Festival 1 p.m. – 7 p.m. Vision Theatre back lot, 3341 W. 43rd Pl., Los Angeles. Come celebrate the 4th of July at the Vision Theatre in Leimert Park with the rich cultural heritage of the diverse sounds of jazz and blues. There will also be children’s arts and crafts, face painting, delicious food available, and free watermelon.
INFO: 213-202-5500, www.culturela.org

4th of July Spectacular in Porter Ranch 4:30 pm – 10 pm.
The FREE festival and fireworks show at Shepherd of the Hills Church in Porter Ranch includes moon bounces and face painting for the children, an outdoor stage show as well as optional food purchases from over a dozen local food vendors; all capped off with a twenty-one minute aerial fireworks display. 19700 Rinaldi Street, Porter Ranch, 91326.
Info: www.theshepherd.org/events/4th-of-july-spectacular

Inexpensive Event

Palisades Americanism Parade Association. Parade along Sunset Boulevard beginning at 2 p.m., followed by fireworks later in the evening at Palisades Charter High School in Pacific Palisades. Gates open at 6 p.m., entertainment begins at 6:30pm, fireworks at 9pm Admission is $2 per person. Proceeds to benefit the Palisades Charter H.S. Music Department. www.palisadesparade.org

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Free drink at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf on June 29th, from 4 to 7 p.m.!!

You are invited!
Join us for a complimentary 12oz Iced Americano, Iced Coffee or Iced Tea Beverage!

When: Tuesday, June 29th, 4-7pm
Where: Participating The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® store locations*

*Only valid at participating The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® store locations in CA, AZ & NV. Excludes San Diego county, Texas, Hawaii, Ralphs stores, casinos, campus or airport locations. Valid only on June 29th, 2010, from 4pm to 7pm. Offer applies to 12oz. Iced Americano, Iced Coffee or Iced Tea beverage only. No substitutions. Limit one complimentary drink per customer. Check your local store for details.

Monday, June 28, 2010

Free Mocha at McDonald's today until 7 p.m.!

June 28. Free mochas at McDonald's! McDonald’s is giving away free 8-ounce mochas (hot or iced) on Mondays between 7 AM and 7 PM. No purchase necessary, one per person.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Kristin's Kickbacks List for Week of 6-25

June 25-June 29. Old Navy is offering 30% off everything in store and online.

June 25-June 30. Get $10 off L.A. Zoo membership at www.lazoo.org. Use code 11006FFW at checkout.

June 26. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Book Sale at Granada Hills Branch Library. Great prices on used books!

June 26. 10 a.m. FREE Build and Grow Clinic at Lowes. Bring your child to Lowe's and they can build a monster truck! The kids get goggles and an apron and a kit to build an item. They use hammers their size and get a patch afterward for completing the project. You can register online.

June 26. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free event. Taste at the Grove. All-day event featuring cooking demonstrations, live music and tastes from the Grove’s restaurants. www.thegrovela.com 323-900-8080.

June 27. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Free concert on the green at Warner Park. The Young Dubliners consider themselves the ambassadors of Celtic and American rock. Warner Park, 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills. www.valleycultural.org For information call:877-704-3456

June 28. Free mochas at McDonald's! McDonald’s is giving away free 8-ounce mochas (hot or iced) on Mondays between 7 AM and 7 PM. No purchase necessary, one per person.

June 28. 7 p.m. FREE interactive J.A.M. Sessions: The Taiko Experience. The art of taiko drumming involves more than wielding the sticks. Learn how to get the most out of the great big drums from the masters of TAIKOPROJECT. Participants will learn about the history and development of taiko in Japan and the United States, as well as basic technique in taiko drumming. John Anson Ford Theatre, 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, L.A. Reservations recommended. Call the box office at 323-461-3673 to avoid handling fees.

June 28. 10 a.m. FREE Monday Morning Concert for children at the Madrid Theatre in Canoga Park. Admission is first-come, first-served basis. I usually go around 9:30 and bring coins for parking meters. 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, CA 91303 – 818-347-9938. This week’s concert is:

TINA GUO (CELLIST)
The 23 year old classical cellist and multi-genre electric cellist Tina Guo has appeared as a soloist with many orchestras internationally, including the San Diego Symphony, the State of Mexico National Symphony, the Thessaloniki State Symphony in Greece, the Petrobras Symphony, the Barra Mansa Symphony in Brazil, and the Vancouver Island Symphony in British Columbia. She performed recently at the Grammy Awards with the Foo Fighters, and with Brazilian guitarist Victor Biglione in a Jimi Hendrix Tribute Concert at the Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janiero.

June 28 and July 1. Free showing of Shrek the third. The Promenade at Westlake presents the Summer Film Festival! Free family movies at Mann Westlake 8 Theatres, Mondays and Thursdays at 10am. Plus, receive a KIDS EAT FREE postcard when you see a movie during the Summer Film Festival. Enjoy lunch at one of The Promenade restaurants listed below, where you will receive a free kids meal with purchase of any adult entree and beverage. KIDS EAT FREE after the show at Marmalade Cafe, Chili's, Romano's Macaroni Grill, Pick Up Stix, Champagne French Bakery, California Pizza Kitchen ASAP, La Salsa and Menchies Frozen Yogurt (buy one get one 50% off; must be of equal or lesser value).*KIDS EAT FREE offer is valid for LUNCH ONLY Mondays and Thursdays, June 14 - August 26. Cannot be combined with any other offers. 180 Promenade Way, Promenade Mall, Westlake Village, 91362. (805) 379-2299.

June 29. 10 a.m. AMC Summer Movie Camp will be offered at 10 a.m. each Tuesday morning this summer at participating theatres, from June 15 through August 10. This week the movie is Monsters vs. Aliens (PG). Each ticket is $1 and all admission and concession proceeds will benefit two AMC charities, Variety – The Children’s Charity and the Will Rogers Institute. Doors will open at 9:30 a.m. Tickets for each week will be on sale approximately one week prior to the scheduled show date.

June 29-30. FREE summer movies at select Regal Theatres. Selected G or PG movies start at 10:00am every Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served and are limited to theatre capacity. Tickets for the 2010 Free Family Film Festival are exclusively available at select theatres’ box office on the day of the show. Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG) and Surf's Up (PG) are playing at the Civic Center Stadium 16 in Simi Valley. Daddy Day Care (PG) and Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs (PG) are playing at the Canyon Country Stadium 10 on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. Tale of Despereaux (G) and The Spy Next Door (PG) are playing at the Grand Palace Stadium 6 on 4767 Commons Way in Calabasas.

July 1. 9 a.m. Get tickets for Huntington Gardens free day in August. Call 800-838-3006 or go online at www.huntington.org.

July 1. 8 p.m. Free All-Time Favorite Movies Under The Stars! The Grove Presents Movies in The Park. This week is How to Train Your Dragon. 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036. PHONE 323.900.8080

July 1. 5:30-7.Jazz at Descanso Gardens. “The Evolution of American Jazz” concert series on Thursday evenings will feature top local talent performing on the new earthen stage on Descanso’s Main Lawn. Bring a blanket to sit on and a picnic supper (normally not allowed inside the Gardens), and settle back to savor music from some of SoCal’s finest jazz artists. Concerts run from 5:30 to 7 p.m. through August 12. Concerts are free with admission to the Gardens and free for members. This week, Robert Kyle (www.robertkyle.com) plays the Brazilian jazz songbook.

July 1. 6-9. Thursday night summer concerts at the Autry Museum (across from L.A. ZooSee top Latin bands in a fun, casual, energetic setting on the Autry plaza. The taco and drink bar open at 6:00 p.m., and the museum and museum store close at 8:00 p.m. Complimentary dance lessons and a separate dance floor for kids guarantee fun for all! Free for Autry members / $7 for nonmembers. This week enjoy the Susie Hansen Latin Band.

Upcoming Event

July 3. 10 a.m. (Come at 9 a.m. for pre-show activities) Big!World!Fun! Family Series. One hour-long music, dance and theatre aimed for children ages 4 to 10 and families. This week is Troupe Vertigo. Children free, adults $5. Parking $1. Reservations required. To avoid handling fees, call the box office at 323-461-3673. This is outdoors and it’s okay to bring food.

Friday, June 18, 2010

Kristin's Kickbacks List for Week of 6-18

June 17-20. Valley Fair at Birmingham Charter High School in Lake Balboa. 17000 Haynes St., Lake Balboa, 91406. This agricultural-themed festival features carnival games, musical performances, rides, a petting zoo, farm animal and product displays and other entertainment. June 18. 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. June 19. Noon-11 p.m. June 20. Noon-10 p.m. Admission: $6 Adults, Seniors and children under 11 are $5. DEAL--On Sunday, adults get in at kids’ price. Parking is free.

· June 18. 5 pm to 8 pm. Twilight Night: Aloha Luau at Kidspace in Pasadena.
Kick off your summer with a tropical getaway to Kidspace! Come dressed in aloha shirts and hula skirts to make your own lei, participate in hula dancing & drumming, taste a tropical fruit drink and enjoy Hawaiian BBQ by Wolfgang Puck. The Polynesian Paradise Dancers will be on hand at 6:30pm in the Amphitheater to perform and teach the hula, along with other traditional Polynesian dances. Admission is $5 per guest; $4 for active members.

· June 19. 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. Make a Free Father’s Day Notepad Holder at Lakeshore, including stores in Pasadena or Northridge. www.lakeshorelearning.com.

· June 19-20. Pasadena Chalk Festival. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. FREE. Paseo Colorado, 280 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Amateur and advanced artist make chalky pictures on 2 city blocks. Kids can make Father’s Day cards and have their faces painted.

· June 20. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Dodger Stadium FREE event. The Los Angeles Dodgers invite families on to the field at Dodger Stadium for the seventh annual Father’s Day Catch on June 20. The event provides families with the opportunity to play catch at Dodger Stadium in celebration of Father’s Day. Dodger partner Farmer John is donating Dodger dogs for the occasion, Sparkletts will provide water bottles and Coca Cola will supply PowerAde. Fans can park for free at Dodger Stadium on Father’s Day. The Sunset Gate opens at 10 a.m. and families enter through the center field gates. Music, merchandise, the Dodger Ticket truck and Dodger fan clubs will be on site for the event. The first 3,000 fans in attendance will get a complimentary Dodger dog.

· June 20. 1-3 p.m. Father’s Day Concert at Descanso Gardens. Lisa Haley and the Zydecats are playing Cajun music. There will be a catered BBQ lunch available for purchase from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Limited table and chairs are available, so bring blankets and folding chairs to dine among the trees. (No outside picnics are allowed.) Admission: $8 adults, $3 children 5-12. www.descansogardens.org. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada.

· June 20. The Kids' Adventure Garden (KAG) at the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden is open every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The KAG provides an exciting place for children to learn about nature and gardening. The garden features a tree house, zoo garden, hydroponic pod and much more. Free. Enter at 350 W. Gainsborough Rd. at Jeanine Dr. between Lynn Rd. and Moorpark Rd., Thousand Oaks.

· June 20. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. FREE weekly concerts in the park. Warner Park, 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Woodland Hills. This week the group is Desperado--a tribute to The Eagles.

· June 20. 6 p.m. FREE weekly concerts at Los Angeles County Museum of Art. These one-hour concerts are presented free to the public on Sundays in the Leo S. Bing Theater. This week: Ryan de Ryke baritone and Daniel Schlosberg pianist perform songs of Hugo Wolf.

· June 20, 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Autry National Center (across from L.A. Zoo).
The Autry invites all fathers and their families to visit the museum galleries, featuring the history and culture of the American West. Enjoy the all-day family activities set for Father's Day, including gold panning, craftmaking, and a live jam session by Western Music Association performers. The Golden Spur Cafe will feature an outdoor BBQ, plus a wide selection of meals ranging from buffalo burgers to garden burgers, and tostadas to salads. Adults: $9. Students with current ID and Seniors (60+): $5. Children (3-12): $3.00. Children under 3: free.

· June 21. 10 a.m. FREE Monday Morning Concert for children at the Madrid Theatre in Canoga Park. Admission is first-come, first-served basis. I usually go around 9:30 and bring coins for parking meters. 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, CA 91303 – 818-347-9938. This week’s concert is:

TWINKLE TIME
Twinkle Time … a high energy bilingual pop musical for kids. Most recently, this bilingual bundle of energy has made guest appearances on "Two and a Half Men," recurs on ABC "General Hospital," recurs on the popular Spanish TV show "A Que No Puedes" and toured in the national productions of "Jesus Christ Super Star," " AIDA" and "Footloose."

· June 21. 12pm - 9:30pm. Frozen Crush is offering a regular italian ice for 25 cents. 8850 Tampa Ave., Unit 102, Northridge, 91324. 818-882-8486. (In the Costco Shopping Center).

· June 22. 10 a.m. AMC Summer Movie Camp will be offered at 10 a.m. each Tuesday morning this summer at participating theatres, from June 15 through August 10. This week the movie is Imagine That (PG) starring Eddie Murphy. Each ticket is $1 and all admission and concession proceeds will benefit two AMC charities, Variety – The Children’s Charity and the Will Rogers Institute. Doors will open at 9:30 a.m. Tickets for each week will be on sale approximately one week prior to the scheduled show date.

· June 22-23. FREE summer movies at select Regal Theatres. Selected G or PG movies start at 10:00am every Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served and are limited to theatre capacity. Tickets for the 2010 Free Family Film Festival are exclusively available at select theatres’ box office on the day of the show. Tale of Despereaux (G) and The Spy Next Door (PG) are playing at both the Civic Center Stadium 16 in Simi Valley. and the Canyon Country Stadium 10 on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. Hotel For Dogs (PG) and Planet 51 (PG) are playing at the Grand Palace Stadium 6 on 4767 Commons Way in Calabasas.

· June 23. 2 p.m. The Found Object Juggling Show, Library Community Room, South Pasadena Library, 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena. Michael Rayner combines hilarious tricks and stunts with uproarious comedy and a bounty of improvised fun as he juggles everyday objects, including spinning a cheeseburger on an umbrella, balancing a wheelbarrow on his chin, and performing the “Amazing Chicken Towel” trick. Check his website at www.michaelrayner.com.

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Jamba Juice Deal!

On Wednesday, June 16, Superfruit Smoothies (16 size) are just $1! Yummy!

Deal Alert!

Hot dog on a stick is giving away a free hot dog on a stick today (June 15th) from 5-8. One per person.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Kristin's Kickbacks List for Week of 6-11

  • June 12. 1-3 p.m. Autry National Center (museum across from L.A. Zoo). Make a picture frame for your dad. Free with admission. $9 adults, $3 children 3-12. 4700 Western Heritage Way, L.A. 323-667-2000.
  • June 12. 10 a.m. FREE Build and Grow Clinic at Lowes. Father's Day is right around the corner! Bring your child to Lowe's and they can build a Picture Frame for dad! The kids get goggles and an apron and a kit to build an item. They use hammers their size and get a patch afterward for completing the project. You can register online. There is a waiver to fill out before you can begin the project. https://www.lowesbuildandgrow.com/
  • June 12. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Target Free Family Saturday at Japanese American National Museum. 369 East First Street, Los Angeles, 90012. (213) 625-0414. There will be crafts, storytelling, dance performances and other fun activities!
  • June 14. 10 a.m. FREE Monday Morning Concert for children at the Madrid Theatre in Canoga Park. Admission is first-come, first-served basis. I usually go around 9:30 and bring coins for parking meters. 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, CA 91303 – 818-347-9938. This week’s concert is:
  • STRING FAMILY PLAYERS String Family Players delivers fascinating performances made memorable by great music. Breaking down the stereotype that classical music is inaccessible; the ensemble offers the audience an unforgettable experience as they connect with students through their music. This dynamic string quintet ensemble includes two violins, a viola, a cello and a double bass to create fun and memorable concerts.
  • June 15. 8 p.m. Bluegrass Band concert at the Braemar Country Club. (Every third Tuesday of the month). Come to Braemar on the third Tuesday of every month for an evening of authentic American bluegrass music performed by the best bluegrass bands in Southern California. Admission is free. If you would like to join us for dinner, a Pasta Bar complete with Soup, Salad, Pastas, Rolls and Butter, Beverages, and Dessert is available for only $15 inclusive at 6:30 p.m. Braemar Country Club | 4001 Reseda Blvd., Tarzana, 91357 | p:818.345.6520 |
  • June 15. Free admission to Los Angeles County Arboretum. 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 301 North Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia, CA, 91007.
  • June 15. 10 a.m. AMC Summer Movie Camp will be offered at 10 a.m. each Tuesday morning this summer at participating theatres, from June 15 through August 10. This week the movie is Shrek The Third (PG). Each ticket is $1 and all admission and concession proceeds will benefit two AMC charities, Variety – The Children’s Charity and the Will Rogers Institute. Advance tickets will be on sale starting June 8 at 214 participating AMC theatre locations and online. Doors will open at 9:30 a.m. and shows will begin at 10 a.m. local time nationwide. Tickets for each week will be on sale approximately one week prior to the scheduled show date.
  • June 15-June 16. FREE summer movies at select Regal Theatres. Selected G or PG movies start at 10:00am every Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served and are limited to theatre capacity. Tickets for the 2010 Free Family Film Festival are exclusively available at select theatres’ box office on the day of the show. Kit Kittredge: American Girl (G) and Alvin And The Chipmunks: The Squeakquel (PG) are playing at the Civic Center Stadium 16 in Simi Valley. Hotel For Dogs (PG) and Planet 51 (PG) are playing at the Canyon Country Stadium 10 on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita.
  • June 16. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Kids Club: Father’s Day Craft. The Lakes at Thousand Oaks. Wear messy, painting clothes and make a fun Father’s Day gift. FREE! 805-497-9861. 2200 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks.
  • June 17. 12 PM to 8 PM. Free day at Japanese American National Museum. 369 East First Street, Los Angeles, 90012. (213) 625-0414.
  • June 17-20. Valley Fair at Birmingham Charter High School in Lake Balboa. 17000 Haynes St., Lake Balboa, 91406. This agricultural-themed festival features carnival games, musical performances, rides, a petting zoo, farm animal and product displays and other entertainment. June 17. 4 p.m.-10 p.m. June 18. 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. June 19. Noon-11 p.m. June 20. Noon-10 p.m. Admission: $6 Adults, Seniors and children under 11 are $5. DEAL—On Thursday, kids are FREE! On Sunday, adults get in at kids price. Parking is free.
  • Right now you can get a 2-yr subscription to Popular Mechanics Magazine for $8.00 at Amazon! $4.00 per year is a great deal! The magazine is priced at $18.00 for 2 years, but $10.00 will automatically come off at checkout (no coupon code required!) There are also other magazines on sale! (Thanks to frugal girls for the idea!) http://www.facebook.com/thefrugalgirls

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Father's Day Ideas

  • June 12. 1-3 p.m. Autry National Center (museum across from L.A. Zoo). Make a picture frame for your dad. Free with admission. $9 adults, $3 children 3-12. 4700 Western Heritage Way, L.A. 323-667-2000.

  • June 12. 10 a.m. FREE Build and Grow Clinic at Lowes. Father's Day is right around the corner! Bring your child to Lowe's and they can build a Picture Frame for dad! The kids get goggles and an apron and a kit to build an item. They use hammers their size and get a patch afterward for completing the project. You can register online. There is a waiver to fill out before you can begin the project. https://www.lowesbuildandgrow.com/

  • June 16. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Kids Club: Father’s Day Craft. The Lakes at Thousand Oaks. Wear messy, painting clothes and make a fun Father’s Day gift. FREE! 805-497-9861. 2200 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks.

  • June 19. 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. Make a Free Father’s Day Notepad Holder at Lakeshore, including stores in Pasadena and Northridge. www.lakeshorelearning.com.

  • June 20. 1-3 p.m. Father’s Day Concert at Descanso Gardens. Lisa Haley and the Zydecats are playing Cajun music. There will be a catered BBQ lunch available for purchase from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Limited table and chairs are available, so bring blankets and folding chairs to dine among the trees. (No outside picnics are allowed.) Admission: $8 adults, $3 children 5-12. www.descansogardens.org. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada.

  • June 20. The Kids' Adventure Garden (KAG) at the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden is open every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The KAG provides an exciting place for children to learn about nature and gardening. The garden features a tree house, zoo garden, hydroponic pod and much more. Free. Enter at 350 W. Gainsborough Rd. at Jeanine Dr. between Lynn Rd. and Moorpark Rd., Thousand Oaks.

  • Right now you can get a 2-yr subscription to Popular Mechanics Magazine for $8.00 at Amazon! $4.00 per year is a great deal! The magazine is priced at $18.00 for 2 years, but $10.00 will automatically come off at checkout (no coupon code required!) (Thanks to frugal girls for the idea!) http://www.facebook.com/thefrugalgirls

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Saving Money at Restaurants

  • A great way to save on eating out is www.restaurant.com . We use this site a few times a month! You can purchase certificates to various restaurants in the area and even search by category of food. You can buy certificates for $10 off or $25 off or even more off your purchase. $25 coupons usually cost $10, but there are always codes to enter at checkout to make them less. For example, this week they have a deal making it only $2 for a $25 off coupon! Enter the discount code SAVE at checkout to make use of this deal. Check www.couponmom.com to find the current code or sign up for free at www.restaurant.com and they’ll send you emails when they have deals going on. There is a minimum purchase and look to make sure it’s good on the day you want to go (some apply Monday through Thursday, etc). You can print it out right away and be ready to go! We’ve found some great new Italian, Persian, steak, and family restaurants this way!

  • We also use the entertainment book frequently. Books generally cost $25 and they have a lot of coupons for not only casual and fine dining, but also movies, events, etc. They even have some freebies, like a free burger at Carl’s Jr. Right now they have a deal on their website, www.entertainment.com/discount/home.shtml You get A FREE 2010 Entertainment Book when you reserve your 2011 edition. I went to dinner with some friends the other day and we were able to use 2 entertainment book cards for 4 people, saving us $18!


  • Many restaurants are sending out coupons right now to try to get more business. Watch for coupons in the mail and in your Sunday newspaper.

Friday, June 4, 2010

Kristin's Kickbacks List for Week of 6-4

June 5. Giant Used Book Sale at Mid Valley Regional Library from 10-2. This is a sale not to miss! Children’s books have all been 25 cents in the past! It’s held in a small room stuffed with books, so I try to go without my children if possible. 16244 Nordhoff St., North Hills, 91343. 818-895-3650.

June 5. Free Puppetry Festival. 4-9 p.m., McGroarty Arts Center. Enjoy performances and activities by notable Los Angeles' puppeteers, sure to delight audiences of all ages. Visit the fun festival activity booths to make a simple puppet or learn to manipulate one. Shop for unique gifts and crafts and have a bite or two to eat. 818-352-5285. 7570 McGroarty Terrace, Tujunga, 91042.

June 5. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Home Depot's FREE Kids Workshop to make a soccer game. The workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, this fun time allows for quality one-on-one time between adults and children. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates' aprons, and an achievement pin.

June 5. 10:00am - 12:00pm. Family Adventures at the L.A. County Arboretum. This month the topic is “Bugs of the Arboretum.” Free with admission. ($8 adults, $3 children 5-12). Meet by the fountain in front of the Oak Room. Join your adventure guide as we explore The Arboretum. Come early as space is limited to 25. Children of all ages are welcome! Family adventures will go on rain or shine so dress appropriately!

June 8. 9:30 a.m. Registration for free and inexpensive summer classes at Winnetka Recreation Center. L.A. Kids offers free classes, such as soccer and kids art, as well as inexpensive classes such as cooking for $30 for 8 weeks. Classes run from July 6th through August. Great deal! 8401 Winnetka Ave., Winnetka, 91306.

June 8. Autry National Center free day. (Museum across from L.A. Zoo).

Upcoming Events & Ongoing Deals

Earn a free movie pass and other cool prizes! Now you can turn codes from specially-marked Kellogg’s® cereals (such as Rice Krispies and Frosted Mini Wheats) into points that you can redeem for great stuff inspired by everyone’s favorite gang of toy characters. If you are a new visitor sign up today for a Toy Story 3 account and start adding up your points! http://toystory3.kelloggs.com/ (Thanks Rick for the tip!)

Gymboree is having a fill a bag sale and offering 30% off everything. Plus you get 15% off your order when you use the code 11A9MBSQH180889 at check out. This code can be used by more than one person. If that was not good enough for you, you also get 25 gymbucks for every $50 spent. Shipping is a flat $5. (Thanks to www.commonsensewithmoney.com).

During June, Redbox will give you a free rental when you rent 2 movies at the same time. This does not work with online rentals. You will have to rent directly from the kiosk to get the codes.You can only earn 1 free rental per day. The promo codes that are issued cannot be shared, and must be used within 7 days after you receive them. Redbox says that your promo code will be emailed to you 72 hours after your rental transaction, and you will have 7 days to use the code after it is sent to you. Yay for free movies!

FREE BOWLING for kids this summer at Brunswick Bowling. Sign up at www.bowlbrunswick.com and your child can bowl one free game every day in June, July and August (shoe rental not included). Joining the Bonus Zone is easy and free - all you have to do is list the birth dates of your children you’re all set! (Thanks Maribel, for the idea!)

FREE MONDAY MORNING CONCERTS FOR CHILDREN at the Madrid Theatre in Canoga Park starting June 13th. (No concert on July 5). All Concerts are at 10:00 AM. These shows are FREE and reservations are required for groups of ten or more; otherwise admission is on a first-come, first-serve basis. (I usually go around 9:30 and bring coins for parking meters). 818-347-9938. 21622 Sherman Way, Canoga Park, 91303.

FREE summer movies at select Regal Theatres. Selected G or PG movies start at 10:00am every Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival. Tickets and seating are first-come, first-served and are limited to theatre capacity. Tickets for the 2010 Free Family Film Festival are exclusively available at select theatres’ box office on the day of the show. Participating theatres include the Civic Center Stadium 16 & IMAX on Tapo Canyon Road in Simi Valley, Canyon Country Stadium 10 on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita, and Grand Palace Stadium 6 on Commons Way in Calabasas.

Sept 4 - Oct 3, 2010. LA. County Fair. My boys loved this last year! Very fun and educational. They also have a reading program to earn free rides! Check out this link for more details. http://www.lacountyfair.com/2010/entertainment/documents/21ReadtoRide10.pdf

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Ways to save on movies

My husband and I are both movie lovers! Here are some of the ways we've found to save money on movies.

  • The entertainment book has coupons making an AMC movie $7.50 and Regal movie $7 (or $8.50 for a newly released show). The entertainment book also has coupons for restaurants, Ralphs grocery store, many entertainment venues, etc. Right now they have a deal when you reserve a copy of the 2011 book, you get a 2010 copy free! (The 2010 book is good through November 1st).
    http://www.entertainment.com/discount/home.shtml

  • Sign up for the various free club type cards at each theatre. We have a Movie Watcher card from AMC and earn free movies, $1 candies, etc.

  • Look for current deals, like the Kellogg's deal.
    Earn a free movie pass and other cool prizes! Now you can turn codes from specially-marked Kellogg’s® cereals (such as Rice Krispies and Frosted Mini Wheats) into points that you can redeem for great stuff inspired by everyone’s favorite gang of toy characters. If you are a new visitor sign up today for a Toy Story 3 account and start adding up your points!
    http://toystory3.kelloggs.com/
  • Try a discount theatre. Here are two theatres near me:
  • Simi Valley 10 Cinemas
    http://www.simivalley10.com/
    Matinee: $3.00 Evening: $3.75
    Box Office: (805)526-4329
    1457 Los Angeles Avenue, Simi Valley, CA 93065
  • Academy Cinemas - Pasadena
    1003 E. Colorado Blvd
    At Colorado & Catalina
    Pasadena, CA. 91106
    626-229-9400
    http://www.regencymovies.com/main.php?theaterId=8

    Matinee Admission $2.00 Films starting at and before 6pm

    Evening Admission $3.00 Films starting after 6pm

    Wednesday Night Special! Movies starting at 6 PM and later are a great deal for you and a buddy! You and a companion get 2 admissions, 2 popcorns and 2 sodas for only $10!


  • Check out Regal Theatres Free Summer Movies for Families.
  • Wait for the movie to come out on video. Redbox has movies for $1 a night (just make sure you return them on time). During June, Redbox will give you a free rental when you rent 2 movies at the same time. This does not work with online rentals. You will have to rent directly from the kiosk to get the codes. You can only earn 1 free rental per day. The promo codes that are issued cannot be shared, and must be used within 7 days after you receive them. Redbox says that your promo code will be emailed to you 72 hours after your rental transaction, and you will have 7 days to use the code after it is sent to you. Yay for free movies!

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Book Deals!

Okay, here are some great deals on books. ( I love to read and so do my boys!)

Borders has a summer reading program! Kids 12 and under read 10 books, fill out the form and submit it for a free book (good for selected titles).

Barnes and Noble has a similar program. Kids read 8 books, fill out form and get a free book (more choices for books with their program).

If you don't mind used books, the Mid Valley Regional Branch has a used book sale this Saturday, June 5th in North Hills. They have amazing books for kids and adults! In the past, all the kids' books were 25 cents each! Such a deal!

Any other places you know of to get good books at a great price?

A little about me

Hello. I've been happily married for 11 years and I've always appreciated a good deal! I'm also a mom of two busy boys and constantly looking for fun places to take them. I started writing up a list each week for friends on deals I had found, inexpensive places to go and ways to save money. I've decided to start a blog to have a central place to list my deals. I hope you enjoy it!