California Freethought Day 2025


Details
California Freethought Day combines the fun and atmosphere of a fair with the education and activism of a conference. It's a festival of freethought.
Our theme this year is “One Nation, Indivisible: Liberty and Justice for All” as we explore the current administration’s growing attack on marginalized communities and the rise of Christian Nationalism.
Join us at our free event to celebrate freedom of speech and thought, civic engagement, enthusiasm for science, social justice, and the separation of church and state.
Our event will be outdoors at the California State Capitol Building and livestreamed via Facebook, YouTube, and X.
📅 Program
11 AM - Visit Community Groups
12 PM - Program Starts (see the full schedule)
5:30 PM - Event Ends
🎤 Speakers, Live Entertainment, and More
Our 24th year features the following speakers, entertainers, podcasters, authors, and more:
- Jonathan Lopez as "Hellen Heels"
- Seth Andrews, The Thinking Atheist
- Bongo Furies, Frank Zappa Cover Band
- Nick Fish, President of American Atheists
- Karma Waltonen, Writer and Atwood Scholar
- Corey Wright, Shiny Happy People Season 2
- Haram Doodles, Ex-Muslim Cartoonist
- Thomas Smith, Host of Serious Inquiries Only
- Erica Lee, Congressional Candidate
- Lydia Smith, Podcaster
- Andy Swan, as Uncle Sam
- and more to come!
We're also awarding several scholarship winners, including Liana Pilar de Leo whose essay won our $5,000 Nickelson Family Scholarship.
🖼️ Other Activities
There's plenty to do at Freethought Day beyond the stage, including:
- Connect with Community Groups like Planned Parenthood
- Juggle with Uncle Sam
- Read our Endorsement Gallery from state and national officials
- Walk through our Freethought Gallery of portraits from the past
- Play while learning with Science Alliance
- Participate in our Art Gallery and interactive exhibit
📺 Live Stream
Watch the live stream via Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter/X. Free registration will ensure you get reminders, a downloadable program, and links to watch the event.
🌳 In Person
Join us outdoors at the Capitol and visit with community groups, meet the authors, enjoy a picnic on the grass, and more. Get a free printed, full-color program and be eligible for $300 in door prizes.
🎟 Free Registration
Registration is free, supported by donations and sponsorships. To officially register, click here:
https://freethoughtday2025.eventbrite.com
Your free registration includes a full-color program and a chance to win any of our door prize baskets valued together at $300 when you attend and complete our survey.
You can support California Freethought Day with a donation when you register. For $25, enjoy snacks and drinks throughout the day. For $75+, join us at our Fundraiser Reception on Saturday evening.
🔗 Other Links
- Speaker Lineup and Schedule
- Supporters' Reception
- Directions
- Support, Sponsor, and Volunteer
- Facebook Events (in person / livestream)
📱 For updates and more, follow us on all major networks @FreethoughtDay.

California Freethought Day 2025