The annual family vacation is something we both look forward to and dread at the same time. Getting to see new places and spend dedicated time with the ones we love most puts a mark on the pro side, but the ding on our bank accounts adds the check to the con side. Vacations can be expensive but necessary and in addition to offering fully equipped kitchens that allow families to save a little, we at the Brick Hotel have also done a little research. We found a list of family-friendly events that are guaranteed to be the highlight of your vacation to Oceanside but are also guaranteed not to make your bank account whimper and we are sharing them with you!
All About Art for Kids, Session Two, October 6, 3861 Mission Avenue
It’s amazing how creative our kids can be and All About Art harnesses that creativity and helps the budding Picassos learn more about the process. Costing $5 a session, this weekly class is held on Wednesdays from 4:45 PM until 5:45 PM, making it the perfect way to end another beautiful day in paradise, and although it is a kids-only class, mom and dad can enjoy a cocktail or two and some peace and quiet nearby while the littles are creating masterpieces.
Fall Festival of Gems and Minerals, October 9, 123 W Alvarado Street in Fallbrook
Kids, like crows, love shiny things and nothing shines brighter than the gems and minerals on display at the Fall Festival of Gems and Minerals. This all-day family-friendly event is free, for both parking and admission, and is an awesome way to kill a few hours on a beautiful California day! Buy some raffle tickets for your chance at winning something spectacular or simply explore the tented booths, perusing wares that include everything from geodes to crystals to handmade jewelry pieces that make perfect gifts for those who were unable to join you on this wonderful adventure. The Fallbrook Gem & Mineral Society, the sponsors of this fun event, offers a free museum that is open on Fridays and Saturdays, so if you can’t make it to the event, consider stopping by the museum for a glance at all that is beautiful about gems and minerals!
Coastal 101 Birding, October 29, 2202 S Coast Highway
Oceanside’s natural beauty is the main attraction for visitors from all over the world, and although you will want to spend as much time in the ocean as you can, there is so much more to see and explore! Coastal 101 Birding is another free event that takes guests to all the spots where the birds like to “play” so bring your camera, your binoculars, and your interest in birds to this special event that lasts from 9:00 AM until Noon. It may not be the best event for families with really young children, but it offers the perfect way to introduce older children to the charms of bird watching.
Donut Fest Vista, October 3 through 31, 1305 Hot Springs Way in Vista
For those who love donuts and those who love beer, this special festival offers both items ensuring that parents and kiddos will be equally excited about attending! Online ticket sales have ended but be sure to take at least one evening during your stay to stop by and learn which beer goes best with which donuts, or for the children in your group, learn how many donuts it takes to send them into the stratosphere of sugar comas!
Dias de los Muertos Festival, October 23, Oceanside Civic Center Plaza
Dias de los Muertos, otherwise known as the Day of the Dead may sound a bit morbid to those not in the know but is actually a fun and moving alternative to Halloween celebrations and this Oceanside festival has been a local tradition for 21 years. Believed to be the time of year when the line between the spirit world and the living is the thinnest, this festival celebrates those we love and who are no longer with us. Featuring live entertainment, great food, and the opportunity to participate in the La Catrina contest (considered the face of death along with her counterpart El Catrin) we in Oceanside are so happy that the festival has made its way home to our town after a brief absence!
Brick-or-Treat Presents Monster Party, October 30, LEGOLAND in Carlsbad
