Mark your calendars, Santa Monica families. Vacation Bible School is back at First Presbyterian Church of Santa Monica from Monday, July 27 through Friday, July 31, 2026, and this year’s theme is one we can’t wait to dig into: Compassion Camp: Changing the World with Lovingkindness.
Vacation Bible School, also known as VBS, is open to kids ages 3 through 5th grade and runs from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily, Monday through Friday.
Whether your family has been part of First Pres for years or you’re just looking for a joyful, faith-filled summer program for kids in Santa Monica, all are welcome.
What is Compassion Camp?
As we look around the world, our need for compassion becomes more evident every day — maybe now more than ever. Compassion Camp is a week where kids and families explore what it really means to show compassion: for others, for ourselves, and for the world around us.
Each day’s scripture and theme come to life through interactive skits, music, crafts, movement, and games. The goal is to help kids understand and practice God’s way of love in ways that stick with them long after the week is over.
What to Expect Each Day at Vacation Bible School
Mornings are full of worship and drama, Bible study, art and science exploration, and active games, which are at the heart of the Compassion Camp curriculum.
In the afternoons, kids get to keep the fun going with:
- Mission projects
- Animal shows
- Science experiments
- Water play
- Bounce houses
- And more
It’s a week built to help kids grow in faith while making friends, getting messy, and having a genuinely great time.
Vacation Bible School 2026 Details
Dates: Monday, July 27 – Friday, July 31, 2026
Times: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. daily
Ages: 3 years old through 5th grade
Cost: $125 per child for the full week
Location: First Presbyterian Church of Santa Monica, 1220 2nd Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Financial Assistance is Available
We never want cost to be the reason a child misses out on VBS. If $125 isn’t doable for your family right now, financial assistance is available — no judgment, just support.
Reach out to Jen Philbin, Director of Children’s, Youth and Family Ministries, at jen@fpcsantamonica.org, and she’ll take it from there.
How to Register for Vacation Bible School
Ready to save your child’s spot for Compassion Camp?
You can also reach out to Jen Philbin at jen@fpcsantamonica.org with any questions about registration, drop-off, what to bring, or financial assistance.
We can’t wait to spend the week showing our kids what lovingkindness looks like in action.
Frequently Asked Questions About VBS 2026
Who can attend Vacation Bible School at First Pres?
Vacation Bible School is open to children ages 3 through 5th grade. Families from First Pres and the wider Santa Monica community are welcome.
When is VBS 2026?
VBS 2026 will take place Monday, July 27 through Friday, July 31, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day.
How much does VBS cost?
The cost is $125 per child for the full week. Financial assistance is available for families who need support.
What will kids do during Compassion Camp?
Kids will participate in Bible learning, worship, drama, music, crafts, movement, games, mission projects, science activities, water play, bounce houses, and more.
Who should I contact with questions?
For questions about registration, financial assistance, drop-off, or what to bring, contact Jen Philbin at jen@fpcsantamonica.org.
Get in Touch
First Presbyterian Church of Santa Monica
1220 2nd Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401
310.451.1303
info@fpcsantamonica.org
Join us in worship every Sunday morning at 10:00 a.m.
