When your child says, “I’m bored,” on a hot summer day, avoid the “back in my day” speech. Instead, try these enjoyable summer activities. Summer can be tough on the budget, from increased A/C bills to family vacations. However, you can make this summer the best yet without overspending by trying out these affordable family-friendly activities.

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Fun, Cheap & Free Things to Do This Summer

Turn off the tablets, step away from video games, and take a break from streaming. These outdoor summer activities for kids, toddlers, and teens will make this summer unforgettable. Here’s how to keep your children entertained without breaking the bank:

Have a Yard Sale

Organizing a yard sale is a great way to declutter your home while earning extra cash. It also teaches kids the value of letting go of old belongings. Boost the fun by encouraging them to set up a lemonade stand. The money earned can go toward next year’s vacation.

Try Upcycling

Rather than buying new summer shoes, why not upcycle your current ones? Upcycling teaches sustainability while sparking creativity in children. Look up ideas on upcycling shoes, clothes, or even furniture.

Go to a Festival or County Fair

Festivals and county fairs provide affordable entertainment. Enjoy rides, carnival food, and quality family time. Stick to a budget by carrying cash instead of cards. When gearing up for festivals, swap traditional socks for FLAT SOCKS to keep feet cool and comfortable.

Visit a Farmer’s Market

A visit to the local farmer’s market is a unique summer experience. Explore different stalls, sample fresh foods, and discover handmade crafts. Before visiting, check the hours of operation to plan your trip.

Look for Local Events in Town

Museums, parks, and community centers often host free summer events. Search online for “summer activities near me” to discover free events like concerts, educational programs, and more.

Go Stargazing

Pick a clear night, find an open field, and go stargazing. The less light pollution, the better the view. For a cozy experience, load up the back of a pickup with blankets and pillows, or make it a romantic date night.

Hunt for Rainbows

After summer rain showers, majestic rainbows often appear. Gather the kids, put on rainbow socks, and go hunting for the treasure at the end of the rainbow. While you may not find a pot of gold, you’ll enjoy quality time together.

Get Artsy with Sidewalk Chalk

Chalk art is a fun summer activity for toddlers and older kids alike. Engage everyone in games like Pictionary or create a driveway mural. Take it up a notch by filling water balloons with cornstarch and food coloring for splatter paint fun.

Have a Tie Dye Day

Tie dye is a simple and affordable summer project. Grab a tie dye kit, plain white T-shirts, and let the kids create colorful masterpieces they’ll proudly wear all summer.

Grow a Garden

Gardening is a budget-friendly summer activity. Whether you start with seeds or plants, gardening teaches responsibility and the joy of growing food or flowers. Let your child plant their own section and watch it thrive.

Go to the Library

Libraries often host summer programs for kids and teens. Encourage reading by attending book fairs or enrolling your kids in summer reading programs. Reading helps keep their minds sharp for the upcoming school year.

Break Out the Hose for Water Games

Grab your water hose and prepare for backyard water games! From water balloons to water guns, these activities will keep the kids entertained. Or, create a DIY slip and slide with sprinklers and shampoo on a tarp for extra fun.

Try Lawn Games

Lawn games can elevate summer gatherings. Set up scavenger hunts or try giant beer pong. As night falls, play glow-in-the-dark capture the flag or use glow sticks for a round of glow bowling.

Go Hiking

No matter where you live, there’s likely a hiking trail nearby. Explore national or state parks, enjoy nature, and take a picnic break. If hiking isn’t your style, consider renting a kayak for water adventures.

Go Camping

If heading to a campsite isn’t feasible, backyard camping is a free and fun option. Set up a tent, catch fireflies, roast marshmallows, and tell ghost stories under the stars.

Build a Pillow Fort for Movie Night

For a rainy-day alternative, gather all the pillows and blankets to build a cozy fort. It’s perfect for watching movies, reading books, or engaging in pillow fights.

Try New Things & Make a List

Use summer as an opportunity to try new activities or skills. Make a list of things like cooking, horseback riding, or sports. Coupon sites can help save money on activities, events, and lessons.

Make Your Own Ice Cream

Skip the trips to the ice cream parlor by making your own at home. Most ingredients are pantry staples, and online recipes make it easy. Add toppings for a fun sundae party to cool down this summer.