Several big stores run free in-store workshops for kids. Home Depot and Lowe's hand out a wood kit to build, usually on a Saturday morning once a month, with extra holiday builds in November and December. LEGO Stores run free mini builds, and bookstores hold free storytimes. Register ahead for the build workshops: kits are limited.
Updated
Updated
Kids workshops on TrySpree now
Workshops and kids events posted on TrySpree lately that haven't happened yet. Each links to a page with the date and the store's own sign-up page.
Which stores run free kids workshops?
These have run for years. Dates and projects change each month and stores can skip one, so check your local store before you go.
| Who | What kids usually get | When | How to sign up |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Home Depot Kids Workshop | A wood project kit to build with a hammer and glue, plus an apron, a pin and a certificate | Usually the first Saturday of the month, mornings, with extra holiday builds in November and December | Register on Home Depot's workshops page for your store; walk-ins if kits are left |
| Lowe's Kids Workshops | A build kit and a patch or apron | Select Saturday mornings most months | Register on Lowe's workshops page; spots are limited per store |
| LEGO Stores | A small LEGO model to build in the store and take home | Monthly at many LEGO Stores, often tied to a theme or new set | Sign up in the store or through LEGO Insiders; ask your store for the date |
| Barnes & Noble | A read-aloud storytime, often with a coloring sheet or activity | Weekend mornings at many stores | No sign-up; check your store's events page |
| Michaels | Kids craft events and drop-in crafts | Weekends, more often around holidays | Some are free, many have a small fee; the events page says which |
| Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's | A free photo with Santa plus kids crafts and activities | Mid November to Christmas Eve | Reserve a time on the store's site |
Tips for kids workshops
- Register the day sign-up opens. Holiday builds like ornaments and trains are the most popular of the year.
- Go early. Kits are handed out first come, first served, even to people who registered.
- Plan on about half an hour. Most builds take 20 to 45 minutes, and kids take the finished project home.
- Ask about leftover kits. If you missed the day, some stores give out spare kits for a few days after.
For the holidays, see Christmas freebies for Santa photos and events, and free Christmas gifts and toys. For things that come in the mail, see free toys for kids.
Are Home Depot Kids Workshops really free?
Yes. The kit, the apron and the pin have been free in past years, with nothing to buy. You do need to register for your store's date, and an adult has to stay with the child.
When is the next Home Depot Kids Workshop?
It has usually been the first Saturday of the month, in the morning, with extra holiday builds in November and December. The live list on this page shows the dates posted on TrySpree; each listing says the day.
What ages are kids workshops for?
Most store workshops are aimed at kids about 5 to 12. Younger kids can usually join with a parent's help. Storytimes are for toddlers and up.
Do I have to register?
For Home Depot and Lowe's, yes, and popular builds fill up. Registering holds a kit. Stores often take walk-ins when kits are left over, so it is worth asking on the day.
Are the workshop offers on TrySpree free?
Of the 4 live workshop offers on this page, 4 are marked free with no purchase, 0 need a purchase or fee, and 0 have terms nobody has confirmed yet.
About TrySpree
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