Before summer arrives I like to sit down with my kids and talk about some ideas of what we would like to do during summer break. We make a list and highlight things that seem really important. Then we pull out a calendar where I've already added any scheduled travel, appointments, and camps to see what we can make happen.
You don't have to have a large budget to have a fun summer. There are many free or low-cost ideas and activities out there. Plus, the Macaroni KID event calendar is FULL of local family fun as well.
Here are some free or inexpensive ideas to get you started, or to fill in some gaps. Whatever you choose to do, make some memories and have some fun with the kids!
1. Visit Local Parks
We have so many great parks to explore. Different playgrounds, walking trails, and more. Create a list and visit a different one each week all summer long. Check out our List of Favorite Local Parks and Playgrounds
2. DIY Crafts
Use recycled materials or items collected from nature (tip: take a bag on a hike and find some great items to use). Create crafts like nature collages, bird feeders, and rock/pinecone paintings. Here is an idea for using objects found in nature to paint. For so many more ideas, check out our over 75 other family Craft Ideas
3. Take a Hike... or Two
From local trails to county and state parks, there are lots of fun options to get everyone moving. Here are our Favorite Walking Trails.
4. Backyard Camping
This is an easier option (or go all out and plan a camping trip) that will make the kids' summer! Pitch a tent in the backyard and enjoy checking out the stars, and telling stories around a fire pit, and don't forget to roast some marshmallows. Here's some great Advice on Family Camping and our Favorite Nearby Camping Adventures, our DIY At-Home Camp Out Craft, and, of course, we can't forget to mention our Favorite S'more Recipe
5. Scavenger Hunt
This can be simple or elaborate. Plan one for indoors if the weather is unbearably hot or raining. Plan for one at the park or while hiking and exploring. There's no limit to themes and ideas for scavenger hunts.
6. Visit a Splash Pad or Pool
Find local splash pads and pools to visit. Playing in the water is a great way to spend a day together.
There's a great Splash Pad at Carteret Park
and our favorite indoor public pool at Woodbridge Community Center
One that has both is Highland Grove Outdoor Pool and Spray Park in Fords
7. Go Geocaching
Combine this one with your planned hiking trip or bike ride and enjoy a treasure hunt with the kids. Here's how to get started Geocaching in your Neighborhood
8. Outdoor Movie Night
Check the Macaroni KID event calendar for local community movie events or organize your own outdoor movie night in your yard for your family and friends – invite the neighbors too! Here's how to Turn your Backyard into a Movie Oasis or create your own Backyard Movie Drive-In Theatre Atmostphere
 RDNE Stock Project from Pexels | Canva |
9. Outdoor Games
Teach the kids those childhood favorites such as Red Light, Green Light and Mother May I or gather the neighborhood kids for a fun game of tag, hide-and-seek, jump rope, or kickball. Here are more of our Favorite Outdoor, Backyard Games
10. Visit the Library
Did you know the local libraries host free events all year long? From storytime events and crafts to movies and themed activities. Be in the know – you guessed it – by checking the Macaroni KID event calendar!
11. Bike Rides
Get the kids out there on their bikes. Find a bike trail or a park with a nice path or other area with room to ride and enjoy bicycling. Stop at the ice cream shop for a fun, sweet treat. Here are our Favorite, Local Bike Paths
12. Community Events
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy local festivals, fairs, farmers markets, and outdoor concerts. Check out our Macaroni KID event calendar for local events by date and view our Local Guides for specific, local activities.
13. Science and STEAM Fun
There are lots of simple science experiments and activities you can do with the kids (or set them up to do on their own if they are old enough – tip: a table in the backyard is perfect for potential messes). Some of our favorites include 5 Fun Experiments Kids Can Do with Candy, A DIY Lava Lamp that Will Amaze and Teach Kids, Backyard Explosions, and Make Giant Bubbles in your Backyard!
14. Gardening
Involve the kids in planting a small garden – or even a few pots – with veggies or flowers. Our kids love finding blueberries to eat from our bushes! Here are great Benefits of Gardening with Kids, some Fun Garden Themes, and 6 Tips for a Kid Friendly Garden
15. Splash in a Creek or Stream
Spend the day cooling off in nature while they splash and play. It's fun to see how creative kids can be playing in nature.
16. Have a Picnic
Kids love anything out of the norm. Eating a picnic lunch at the park or anywhere other than at the kitchen table is sure to be a hit. Pack a lunch, pick a place, and GO! Here is our Best Family Picnic Advice with our local favorite spots to have one.
17. Community Service
Volunteer together as a family for community clean-up events, food drives, or other local opportunities to give back to the community. Find a great list of family-friendly organizations needing your help HERE as well as 10 Ways Your Teen can Volunteer this Summer
These activities provide opportunities for kids to have fun, learn, and bond with family and friends while enjoying summer break – and without spending a lot of money. Enjoy your summer adventures!
Jennifer Hill is the publisher of Macaroni KID Fremont, Calif.
Be sure to tell local businesses and events you found them
on Macaroni Kid Greater Woodbridge
and make sure to tell all your friends!
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