January 14th—here's where I'm taking my kids this week

Our free weekly email keeps you in the loop of local kid-friendly events and things to do 🤝

I finally feel recovered from the holiday hangover, the mystery illness that lingered in our house for two weeks, and all the yucky weather. Playdate is working on some exciting things for the year ahead, and as we gear up for an amazing 2026, we’re soaking up all the incredible programming the city of San Francisco has to offer.

X Aubrey

📍 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118
Tiny Chef, Big Impact
Wednesday 1/14 A joyful, museum-wide takeover starring everyone’s favorite tiny culinary icon. This immersive experience includes a hilarious and heartwarming short film in the Morrison Planetarium, a display of Tiny Chef props, photo ops, limited-edition merch, and plenty of delightful surprises. (9:30am - 5pm)

📍 1616 20th St, San Francisco, CA 94107
Family Story Time
Thursday 1/15 A welcoming, all-ages story time featuring books, songs, rhymes, and playful moments designed for families to enjoy together. Space is limited; free tickets are available on a first-come basis at the front desk starting at 10:00 AM. A sweet, low-key morning activity that’s perfect for little ones with wiggly attention spans. (10:30am - 11am)

📍 199 Museum Way, San Francisco, CA 94114
Saturday Science Drop In Workshop
Saturday 1/17  A hands-on science program where kids explore big ideas through playful experiments. Activities may include building rockets, making goo to learn about polymers, and other engaging STEM projects. Designed as a drop-in class and best for curious kids ages 4 and up. Arrive early to allow time for parking, registration, and settling in before class begins. (10:30am - 11:30am)
Ages 4+

📍 199 Museum Way, San Francisco, CA 94114
Afternoon Art
Saturday 1/17 A relaxed, drop-in afternoon of arts and crafts led by a Randall Museum art instructor. Families can arrive anytime during the window to participate in hands-on creative activities with rotating themes. Especially well-suited for kids under 8, with interactive projects that encourage exploration and making together.
Ages 3+

📍 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118
Penguins & Pajamas Sleepover
 Saturday 1/17 A truly unforgettable overnight adventure at the Cal Academy. Families get after-hours access to explore what 40,000 animals are up to once the museum closes, plus special programs, late-night planetarium shows, and rainforest access until 8 PM. After milk and cookies, roll out sleeping bags and snooze inside exhibits like the flooded forest tunnel or Philippine Coral Reef. Morning includes breakfast at the café and free admission to explore the museum all day. (6pm - overnight)
 Ages 5-17 (all children must be accompanied by an adult)

📍 401 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
Civic Symphony: Tchaikovsky — San Francisco Civic Music Association at Herbst Theatre
Sunday 1/18 A free afternoon classical concert featuring an all-Tchaikovsky program performed by the Civic Symphony, one of the oldest community orchestras on the West Coast. Enjoy the Violin Concerto and Symphony No. 6 in the beautiful Herbst Theatre. (3pm - 5pm)

*These aren’t ALL the family-friendly events happening this week in and around SF, just the best (IMO). We keep it short and curated—follow on IG + TT for more!

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See you next week!