An estimated 1800 visitors came out to be entertained and to meet the Learn & Grow exhibitors on Saturday, September 14, at The District at Tustin Legacy.

Forty exhibitors—representing schools, entertainment venues, sports and STEM activities, and special needs resources—interacted with the visiting families, with contests, prizes, demonstrations in between one-on-one conversations with those looking for learning resources and after-school activities for the 2024-2025 school year.

Nearly 50 children—from adorable babies to photogenic pre-teens—entered the Cute Kid Cover contest and were photographed at the event by Parenting OC Reader’s Choice winner, Candice Swanson. Age-group winners of the contest will be on an upcoming cover of Parenting OC magazine. Online voting has begun.

On stage, School of Rock, Tustin, cranked up the volume, little gymnasts (and future Olympians) from Olympica Gymnastics showed off their talents and training, Creative Parties for Kids presented a play and a storytime, Pretend City invited little ones up for a dance party, and Rolling Robots demonstrated amazing technology. Off stage, Etnies presented a skateboard demo, Art Therapy showed children the beauty and zen of crafts time, and BubblePOP placed audience volunteers in giant bubbles.

“This is our first event since COVID, and it could not have gone any better. It exceeded our expectations,” said Parenting OC Publisher Randall Tierney. “The District at Tustin was a beautiful host property, and the visiting families were very involved. We are already in plans for the next event partnership with The District. If you missed this Learn & Grow, don’t worry, another one is coming.”