We are always looking for fun things to do with the family and if it’s free… well that makes it even better! There are plenty of stores around town that offer free events just for you! Stores want you to go inside and check out what they have, so they offer up perks to get you inside.
10 Retail stores that offer free events (workshops or classes) for kids.
Times and dates for these events are subject to change without notice. Check individual websites before heading to the store to make sure the event is still on!
LEGO STORE
Each month Lego stores have a mini model build. You can learn how to build a cool mini model and take it home for free! Registration is on a first come first serve basis and quantities are limited. Stores will no longer accept walk ups on the night of the event. Check the Lego website for store locations and event details.
When:Dates vary
Where:Lego stores – check locations here.
Ages: best for kids 6-14.
POTTERY BARN KIDS
PB Kids has a weekly story time each week where a team member reads books to kids. Become a book club member and receive a special gift after attending 5 story times! Books, themes and activities change up with the seasons.
When:Tuesdays, 11-11:30am
Where: Pottery Barn Kids locations. Check here for a map of the stores.
Ages: any
HOME DEPOT
Home Depot offers a free workshop designed where kids learn how to make a cool craft! All kids get to keep their craft, receive a free certificate of achievement, a workshop apron, and a commemorative pin.
When: The first Saturday of each month
Where: select Home Depot locations
Ages: 5-12
(Lowes also offers workshop for kids. You can find time & date information here.)
MICHAELS Craft Store
Michaels’ craft stores host free craft classes for kids several times a month on weekend and sometimes have weekday events. The kid classes include simple craft projects that are usually related to the holiday season.
When: various dates
Ages: 5-12
Where: Click here for a list of Michaels locations.
IKEA
Ikea has free kid art activity on the weekends in the IKEA Restaurant. The activity takes about 30 minutes to complete and sessions are limited to 20 attendees at a time. (They also have awesome adult classes)
When: Saturday and Sunday from 2-4pm, but check the event schedule here for changes.
Where: IKEA
Ages: 5-15
APPLE STORE
The Apple Store offers a variety of programs and workshops tailored just for kids! Kids can learn how to make movies by storyboarding ideas, shooting video, and creating an original soundtrack.
When: Times and dates vary, must register online. Click here for the schedule.
Where: Apple stores
Ages: 8-12
(We heard the Microsoft Store often offers free events for kids. Check here for a schedule)
LAKESHORE LEARNING
Lakeshore Learning has free craft workshops each week! The school supply store has a variety of crafts including: Wind Chimes, Friendship dolls, bug buddies and Fall crowns.
When: Every Saturday from 11am-3pm
Where: Lakeshore Learning locations
Ages: 3 and up
BASS PRO SHOPS
You may have heard Santa and the Easter Bunny frequent Bass Pro Shops for free photo ops, but they also have cool workshops and classes for kids. Recently, stores hosted archery lessons for kids, BB gun shooting range and simple arts for the little ones. Activities vary for each store location.
When: various times and dates, check here to see the schedule.
Where: Bass Pro Shops
Ages: 3 and up
AMERICAN GIRL
While the guys go to Bass Pro, the girls can head to American Girl. From in-store crafts and cooking classes to tours of the clothing and dolls, every event is designed with girls in mind!
When: Dates and times change.
Where: American Girl locations, check here for a map of the stores in our area.
Ages: 4 and up
TOYS R US
Toys R Us is always hosting some sort of family event in its stores. In the past some of the special events held have been lego camps, parades, and Geoffrey’s birthday party spectacular. There are usually crafts and giveaways.
When:usually the first Saturday of each month.
Where: Toys R Us locations, click here to find one near you.
Ages: all ages