At a Glance
- Bob Baker Day returns April 12, 2026, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
- LA State Historic Park hosts 25,000+ guests for free (suggested $25 donation)
- Puppets, live music, food trucks, and family art stations fill the grounds
- Grand Marshal reveal coming in March; past honorees include SpongeBob and Pinocchio
Puppets rarely opine, but if the marionettes of Bob Baker Marionette Theater could speak, they’d cheer. On April 12, 2026, they leap outside their vintage home and into LA State Historic Park for the 12th Annual Bob Baker Day.
What to Expect
The free outdoor festival-$25 suggested donation-runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and packs the downtown-adjacent lawns with:
- Marionette performances on multiple stages
- Live music pop-ups throughout the park
- Whimsical vendor booths
- Family-friendly art and craft stations
- Food trucks lining the paths
Over 25,000 people attended last year, so organizers urge Metro use; exit at the Chinatown station and walk two blocks.
Legacy on Display
The event salutes Bob Baker, the late puppet master who entertained generations of Angelenos with quirky, colorful shows. His theater, founded in 1963, still operates near Echo Park and sends its star marionettes downtown for this one-day celebration.
Grand Marshal Mystery
The Grand Marshal name drops in March. Previous celebrities given the honor:
| Year | Grand Marshal |
|---|---|
| 2024 | SpongeBob SquarePants |
| 2023 | Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio |
Expect a figure with “oomph and charm to spare,” organizers told News Of Losangeles.
Pro Tips
- Arrive early; lines form by 9:30 a.m.
- Bring sunscreen and blankets for picnic spots
- Cash speeds food-truck purchases
- Park gates close at 5 p.m. sharp
Key Takeaways
Bob Baker Day turns a quiet downtown park into a puppet-powered playground. No tickets required-just show up, donate if you can, and let hundreds of marionettes dance you through spring in L.A.
