If you’re looking for affordable ways to keep the kids busy this month, several stores are hosting free crafts, building workshops, story times and other family-friendly events throughout September.
Most supplies are available while quantities last, and participation can vary by location. Check the event page or contact your local store before making a special trip.
September 5-6: Free Museum Admission
Bank of America, Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank credit or debit cardholders can receive one free general admission to participating museums during the first full weekend of the month.
Each eligible cardholder must present an active card and a government-issued photo ID. The offer does not include guests, special exhibitions or separately ticketed experiences.
Find a participating Museums on Us location
September 6: Free LEGO Micro Castle Build
Participating LEGO Stores are hosting a free Micro Castle Make & Take event for children ages six and older. Kids can build the miniature castle in the store and take their creation home.
The event is scheduled from 12-2 p.m. while supplies last. Dates and availability may vary by store.
Find your local LEGO Store and check its events
September 9: Free Fabric Craft Event at Michaels
Michaels is celebrating Sewing Month with free in-store fabric and sewing activities. The September 9 event is scheduled from 6-8 p.m. at participating stores.
Supplies and space may be limited, so check the current schedule before attending.
View Michaels events and activities
September 12: Free Haunted House Workshop at Lowe’s
Kids can build and decorate their own miniature haunted house during the next Lowe’s Kids Club workshop.
The free workshop runs from 10 a.m., 1 p.m. Advance registration through MyLowe’s Rewards is recommended because time slots and kits can fill quickly.
Register for the Lowe’s Haunted House workshop
September 12: Free Cabin Picture Frame Craft at JCPenney
JCPenney’s Kids Zone is offering a free cabin picture frame craft from 11 a.m., 12 p.m.
Children will receive the craft materials along with an ID badge, lanyard and monthly collector’s pin. Parents will also receive a one-day coupon for an extra 10% off eligible in-store purchases.
See JCPenney Kids Zone details
September 12: Free Quilted Foam Art Craft at Michaels
Kids can create colorful quilt-inspired foam artwork during this free Michaels Kids Club event from 10 a.m., 12 p.m.
The activity is available at participating stores while supplies last.
View the Michaels event schedule
September 13: Free Hot Wheels Event at Target
Select Target stores are hosting a Hot Wheels event from 12-4 p.m. Activities and availability may differ by location, so check Target’s store-event page to confirm that your store is participating.
Check upcoming Target store events
September 17: Free National Park Entrance Day
National Park Service sites that normally charge an entrance fee will offer free admission on Constitution Day, September 17.
For 2026, fee-free admission applies to U.S. citizens and residents. Additional charges for camping, reservations, transportation and special tours may still apply.
See the 2026 National Park fee-free dates
September 18: Free Story Time at Pottery Barn Kids
Pottery Barn Kids hosts a weekly Friday story time at participating stores beginning at 11 a.m.
The event is free, but schedules and participation can vary, so confirm with your nearest store before attending.
Check Pottery Barn Kids store events
September 19: Free Dino Day at Lakeshore Learning
Lakeshore Learning is hosting a free Dino Day from 11 a.m., 3 p.m. Families can stop by for dinosaur-themed crafts and hands-on activities.
This is a walk-in event at participating locations, and reservations are generally not required.
Find a Lakeshore store and view event details
September 20: Free Halloween Scrunchies Event at Michaels
Guests ages 13 and older can make Halloween-themed fabric scrunchies during this free Michaels MakeBreak event from 1–3 p.m.
Supplies are provided while quantities last at participating stores.
View Michaels events and activities
September 26: Free Fall Craft at Pottery Barn Kids
Pottery Barn Kids is hosting a free fall craft event at 10 a.m. at participating locations.
Contact your local store to confirm participation and ask whether advance registration is required.
Find the Pottery Barn Kids fall craft event
September 26: Free Fabric Ghosts Craft at Michaels
Kids can make adorable fabric ghosts during this free Michaels Kids Club activity from 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
The event is available at participating stores while supplies last.
See the Michaels event schedule
September 27: Free Fabric Potato Zapper Event at Michaels
Guests ages 13 and older can make a fabric potato zapper during the Michaels MakeBreak event from 1–3 p.m.
Materials are available while supplies last, and participation may vary by store.
September 30: Free Fabric Bookmark Event at Michaels
Michaels is wrapping up September with a free make-your-own fabric bookmark activity for guests ages 13 and older.
The event is scheduled from 6–8 p.m. at participating stores while supplies last.
Check the Michaels event schedule
Save this list and check back throughout the month for more free activities. You can also search “free kids events near me” to find additional activities in your area—many cities, libraries and community organizations host free family events throughout the month.
Event dates, participation, registration requirements and supply availability can vary by location, so always confirm the details before heading out.
