Showing posts with label events. Show all posts
Showing posts with label events. Show all posts

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Kristin's Kickbacks List Week of 7-16

July 17. 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. FREE Family Saturday at Japanese American National Museum. July’s theme is travel! 369 East First Street, L.A., 90012. (213) 625-0414
Generously sponsored by Target, these special Saturdays are filled with fun activities giving families unique ways to learn, play, and grow together.
ALL DAY CRAFT ACTIVITIES:
· Tag! You're it! Create a fun luggage tag to identify your bag when you travel
· Pack it up! Decorate a backpack to take with you while you're on the go
· Ruthie’s Origami Corner: Smile... and fold your own origami camera!

July 17. 6 p.m. FREE Music in the Park concert at Rancho Simi Community Park, 1765 Royal Ave., Simi Valley. Neil Diamond Tribute group. Bring blankets or chairs.

July 17. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Target Free Arts Family Day at Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). www.lacma.org

July 18. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. FREE Family Day at CAAM: California African American Museum. 600 State Dr., Exposition Park, L.A., 90037. www.caamuseum.org

July 18. 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: Homage to Chopin: Palpiti artists Luiza Borac (piano) and Francisco Vila (cello). Program includes Cello Sonata in G minor, Opus 65, Andante Spianato and Grande Polonaise Brillante, Opus 22.

July 18. 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 Don’t Stop Believin’ (a JOURNEY tribute).

July 19. 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: ANDY RAWN. Baritone vocalist singing show tunes and standards.

July 19. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. FREE McDonald's 7-ounce iced mocha or an 8-ounce hot mocha. No purchase is necessary. Free every Monday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. until August 3 at participating stores.

July 19. 7 p.m. FREE interactive J.A.M. Sessions: Afro-Cuban Percussion 101. Learn to create the rhythms behind those virtuoso salsa moves. Bring your clave stick, hand bells or hand drum, or borrow ours. Session conducted by Walter Rodriguez. No need to be a musician to participate! John Anson Ford Theatre, 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, L.A. Reservations recommended. Call the box office at 323-461-3673 to avoid handling fees. Parking is $1.

July 19. Starts at dusk. FREE. Monday Movie Nights at Simi Valley Town Center mall in food court area, some seating, okay to bring chairs. Movie this week is “Fantastic Mr. Fox.”

July 19 and July 22. 10 a.m. Free showing of Sponge Bob Squarepants Movie. The Promenade at Westlake presents the Summer Film Festival! Free family movies at Mann Westlake 8 Theatres, Mondays and Thursdays. 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. 180 Promenade Way, Promenade Mall, Westlake Village, 91362. (805) 379-2299.

July 20. L.A. County Arboretum Free Day.

July 20. 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 Hotel for Dogs (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.

July 20-21. 10 a.m. 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. Doogal (G) and Night At The Museum II (PG) are playing at the Civic Center Stadium 16 in Simi Valley. Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG) and Surf's Up (PG) are playing at the Canyon Country Stadium 10 on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. Madagascar 2 (PG) and Where The Wild Things Are (PG) are playing at the Grand Palace Stadium 6 on 4767 Commons Way in Calabasas.

July 21. 7 p.m. FREE. Children’s Night at Levitt Pavilion. Brian Vogan plays songs from his acclaimed kids’ music CD, Little Songs. 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena.

July 22. 8 p.m. Free All-Time Favorite Movies Under The Stars! The Grove Presents Movies in The Park. This week is Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade. Bring a blanket (no chairs, please) and have a magical evening at The Grove. The event opens for general grass and bleacher seating at 7:15pm. Exclusive Early Access with Picnics in The Park. For early access, and to bypass the line, simply pre-order gourmet picnics from any of The Grove's fine restaurants or purchase gourmet picnics in The Park. Compliment your outdoor movie experience with a delicious meal. Early access begins at 6:30pm. Only The Grove food permitted in The Park, please. 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036. PHONE 323.900.8080.

July 22. 5:30-7 p.m. 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, Kenny Sara and The Sounds of New Orleans perform blues, jazz and gospel with a Big Easy feel.

July 22. 6-9 p.m. Thursday night summer concerts at the Autry Museum (across from L.A. Zoo. See 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 Lucky 7. The band features the haunting harmonies of the vibraphone and features some of the hardest-working musicians in L.A. Their uniquely American-made style draws on the best of Cuban son, African American jazz, and Puerto Rican soul.



ONGOING DEALS

The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), known as the “Summer Lunch Program” provides FREE nutritious lunches and snacks to youth ages 1 through 18 at our City of Los Angeles, Department of Recreation and Parks recreation centers. The goal of the program is to ensure children receive at least one nutritious and balanced meal per day when school is not in session. The Summer Food Service Program is open to all youth ages 1 through 18. Check out the link to see if there is a park participating near you. http://www.laparks.org/dos/lunchprogram/lunch.htm

A friend told me about this program that’s been around for years that I had never heard of. It is a free toy lending library through L.A. County Dept. of Public Social Services. It works just like a library. The child “checks out” the toy and returns it the following week. The child is rewarded with a new “incentive toy” to keep and take home with them after participation in the program for 5, 10, 15 and 20 weeks. You can also donate gently used toys and books. There are programs all over Los Angeles, including Whittier, North Hills, and Santa Clarita. Here’s a link to the various locations. http://www.ladpss.org/dpss/toyloan/tlcenters.cfm

Blockbuster now has kiosks, similar to Redbox, called Blockbuster Express. The dvds are $1 per night. Here are some codes to use to make your movie free. GT16A (expires 7/30/2010), GT17A (expires 7/30/2010), G417A (expires 7/30/2010). Here’s a link to the site to find a kiosk near you. http://www.blockbusterexpress.com/

Friday, July 9, 2010

Kristin's Kickbacks List Week of 7-9

July 10. 10 a.m. FREE Build and Grow Clinic at Lowes. Bring your child to Lowe's and they can build a ball and cup game! 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.

July 10. 10 a.m. (Come at 9 a.m. for pre-show activities) Big!World!Fun! Family Series at the John Anson Ford Theatre, 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, L.A. One hour-long music, dance and theatre aimed for children ages 4 to 10 and families. This week is TAIKOPROJECT. 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.

July 10. 6-10 p.m. Dive in Movie at Rancho Simi Community Pool in Simi Valley. Movie “UP” starts at 8 p.m. $3 per person, bring blankets or chairs. 1765 Royal Avenue, Simi Valley.

July 11. 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Free 7.11oz Slurpees can be had by one and all at 7-11 on Sunday, July 11th. Looks like it’s nationwide at participating stores. Yummy!

July 11. 12-9 p.m. Bastille Day L.A. Festival. Monticello Old Lodge, Elysian Park, Stadium Way and Scott Ave., L.A. Street performers, Parisian Waiters Race, a Provencal Petanque Tournament, entertainment and French food. $5, children 12 and younger free.

July 12. 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:

THE WONDERELLES (FEMALE ‘50’S QUARTET)

The Wonderelles is lively 50's & 60's Music "girl group" who delivers to you a touch of nostalgia (classic oldies) that will leave you toe-tapping, with a smile on your face!


July 12. 7 p.m. FREE interactive J.A.M. Sessions: Korean Treasure. Learn how to achieve the elegant movements of Korean traditional dance from the Artistic Director of Born Dance Company herself and sample this rich culture as a dancer yourself. John Anson Ford Theatre, 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, L.A. Reservations recommended. Call the box office at 323-461-3673 to avoid handling fees. Parking is $1.

July 12. Starts at dusk. FREE. Monday Movie Nights at Simi Valley Town Center mall in food court area, some seating, okay to bring chairs. Movie this week is “Ghosts of Girlfriends Past.”

July 12 and July 15. 10 a.m. Free showing of Bee Movie. The Promenade at Westlake presents the Summer Film Festival! Free family movies at Mann Westlake 8 Theatres, Mondays and Thursdays. 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. 180 Promenade Way, Promenade Mall, Westlake Village, 91362. (805) 379-2299.

July 13. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. FREE McDonald's 7-ounce iced mocha or an 8-ounce hot mocha. No purchase is necessary. Free every Monday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. until August 3.

July 13. Free admission to Autry museum (across from L.A. Zoo).

July 13. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. An American Girl Debut at the Grove. FREE event for girls 8 and up. Something big is coming to American Girl this summer, and your girl can be part of the excitement! Join us for a day that’s all about learning to be your very best. There will be personalized crafts for girls and dolls, and fun activities designed to let your girl’s inner star shine. Plus, she can learn about American Girl’s all-new virtual world—created just for girls and their dolls! 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, 90036.

July 13. 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 Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa (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.

July 13. 5:30-7 p.m. Rhythm Child at Descanso Gardens. Bring a picnic and blankets and enjoy this popular local band, whose recent album is called Bowl of Cherries. Free with admission. $8 adults, $3 children 5-12. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Canada.

July 13-14. 10 a.m. 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. Madagascar 2 (PG) and Where The Wild Things Are (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. Charlotte's Web (G) and Imagine That (PG) are playing at the Grand Palace Stadium 6 on 4767 Commons Way in Calabasas.

July 14. 11 a.m. FREE. Kids Club at Sherman Oaks Galleria. Jamie Shaheen shines with her bright songs. 15301 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks.

July 14. 7 p.m. FREE. Children’s Night at Levitt Pavilion. The Vagabond Puppets present the dinosaur-themed “Mammoth Follies.” 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena.

July 15. 8 p.m. Free All-Time Favorite Movies Under The Stars! The Grove Presents Movies in The Park. This week is Monsters vs. Aliens. Bring a blanket (no chairs, please) and have a magical evening at The Grove. The event opens for general grass and bleacher seating at 7:15pm. Exclusive Early Access with Picnics in The Park. For early access, and to bypass the line, simply pre-order gourmet picnics from any of The Grove's fine restaurants or purchase gourmet picnics in The Park. Compliment your outdoor movie experience with a delicious meal. Early access begins at 6:30pm. Only The Grove food permitted in The Park, please. 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036. PHONE 323.900.8080.

July 15. 5:30-7 p.m. 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, Reynolds Brothers with Ralf Reynolds perform the classic jazz of Tin Pan Alley.

July 15. 6-9 p.m. Thursday night summer concerts at the Autry Museum (across from L.A. Zoo. See 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 Orquesta Charangoa. Since 1997, Charangoa has kept the flame of traditional charanga alive in L.A. One of the few women in salsa, bandleader and arranger Fay Roberts fires up her flute in this distinct Cuban charanga-style orchestra. Charangoa has appeared in some of L.A.’s top venues, on KTTV’s “Good Day L.A.,” and at many festivals throughout Los Angeles.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Kristin's Kickbacks List for Week of 7-2



July 2. 8 p.m. Free concert featuring Fishtank Ensemble. They play Romanian folk music, with a healthy helping of Flamenco, and Klezmer. Levitt Pavillion, 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena. The Levitt Pavilion Pasadena presents an annual summer series of 50 FREE music concerts, under the stars, at the historic Memorial Park band shell in the heart of Old Pasadena! The Levitt Pavilion is located at 85 E. Holly St. in the heart of Old Pasadena at Memorial Park, right off the Fair Oaks exit from the 210 freeway, and on the corner of Walnut and Raymond. http://www.levittpavilionpasadena.org/

July 2. 7 p.m. Dive-in Movie Night at Santa Clarita Aquatic Center. 20850 Centre PointeParkway. 661-250-3766. Enjoy Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (PG) on the big screen while you float in the pool or lounge on the deck. No outside food or drink allowed; concession stand will be open. $7 per person.

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.

July 3. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Home Depot's FREE Kids Workshop to make a periscope. The workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. 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.

July 4. See July 4th Kickback List for events (listed in the June group of posts).

July 5. No concert this week at the Madrid Theatre.

July 5. June 28. 7 p.m. FREE interactive J.A.M. Sessions: Afro-Peruvian Percussion 101. Discover the sounds created by the marriage of African and Peruvian influences. Everybody will learn a song and jam together by the end of the session, hosted by Gino Gamboa. Special Guests: Chris Ramirez and Angelo Salazar. John Anson Ford Theatre, 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, L.A. Reservations recommended. Call the box office at 323-461-3673 to avoid handling fees. Parking is $1.

July 5 and July 8. 10 a.m. Free showing of Monsters vs. Aliens (PG). The Promenade at Westlake presents the Summer Film Festival! Free family movies at Mann Westlake 8 Theatres, Mondays and Thursdays. 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.

July 6. 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 Madagascar (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.

July 6-7. 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. Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs (PG) and The Waterhorse (PG) are playing at the Civic Center Stadium 16 in Simi Valley. Charlotte's Web (G) and Imagine That (PG) are playing at the Canyon Country Stadium 10 on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs (PG) and The Waterhorse (PG) are playing at the Grand Palace Stadium 6 on 4767 Commons Way in Calabasas.

July 6. 5 p.m. Join in the FREE LEGO® Store Monthly Mini Model Build!
Visit your local LEGO Store on the first Tuesday of every month and you can learn how to build a cool mini model, and take it home – for free! Quantities are limited and offer is good while supplies last only. This week build a LEGO watermelon. One free per child. Event is open to children ages 6 to 14 only. See store for more details. Glendale Galleria
Phone: (818) 549-0733

July 6. Free day for La Brea Tar Pits and the Natural History Museum.

July 6. Free day for Kidspace Museum from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Join Billy B, the “natural science song and dance man” at 4pm and then at 6pm Theater 360 will preview an upcoming performance with actors as young as 5 years old. Enter a raffle to win free tickets to a performance at the Pasadena Playhouse. 480 N.Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91103. (626) 449-9144 www.kidspacemuseum.org.

July 7. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. FREE Kids Club: The Reptile Family will display some fascinating creatures. The Lakes at Thousand Oaks. 2200 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. 805-497-9861.

July 7. 11 a.m. FREE Magic show by Stoil Stoilov at the Sherman Oaks Galleria, 15301 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks. 818-382-4100.

July 7. 2 p.m. FREE interactive performance of Pinocchio by The Traveling Lantern Theatre. Library Community Room, South Pasadena Library, 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena. 626-403-7358.

July 7. 7 p.m. FREE outdoor Broadway musical medley called “You Can’t Stop the Beat” at the Levitt Pavilion. The Levitt Pavilion is located at 85 E. Holly St. in the heart of Old Pasadena at Memorial Park, right off the Fair Oaks exit from the 210 freeway, and on the corner of Walnut and Raymond. http://www.levittpavilionpasadena.org/

July 8. 4 p.m. Puppet show, stories and craft at Mid-Valley Regional Branch Library. 16244 Nordhoff St. 818-895-3650.

July 8. 8 p.m. Free All-Time Favorite Movies Under The Stars! The Grove Presents Movies in The Park. This week is Star Trek (2009). Bring a blanket (no chairs, please) and have a magical evening at The Grove. The event opens for general grass and bleacher seating at 7:15pm. Exclusive Early Access with Picnics in The Park. For early access, and to bypass the line, simply pre-order gourmet picnics from any of The Grove's fine restaurants or purchase gourmet picnics in The Park. Compliment your outdoor movie experience with a delicious meal. Early access begins at 6:30pm. Only The Grove food permitted in The Park, please. 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036. PHONE 323.900.8080.

July 8. 5:30-7 p.m. 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, Mitchell Long and Cafe Atlantico perform Latin and Brazilian jazz.


July 8. 6-9 p.m. Thursday night summer concerts at the Autry Museum (across from L.A. Zoo). See 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 Yari MorĂ©, known as the “romantic of the salsa.”

Ongoing Events


The Levitt Pavilion Pasadena presents an annual summer series of 50 FREE music concerts, under the stars, at the historic Memorial Park band shell in the heart of Old Pasadena! The Levitt Pavilion is located at 85 E. Holly St. in the heart of Old Pasadena at Memorial Park, right off the Fair Oaks exit from the 210 freeway, and on the corner of Walnut and Raymond. http://www.levittpavilionpasadena.org/

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 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