The summer is the perfect time to enjoy family functions while the children are out of school. Unfortunately, it seems many of these activities can cost a substantial amount of money, and if you factor transportation and food, these can add up to even more. We have compiled a list of free activities that are great for the whole family. Since we reside in the United States, they will be specialized for this nation, but you can look for the same themes in your respective countries:
-1- Events at Local Libraries – Despite the proliferation of e-books and paperless media, the library has not become obsolete. Libraries are not just places to go to read books and do research, but many also have free classes and events for all ages. Visit your local library’s website to find their calendar of events and try to attend a few of their programs.
-2- Visiting Parks and Public Spaces – God created and placed mankind in the midst of a natural environment for a reason. Nature is beautiful, exciting, soothing, inspiring and healing. Many parks are free to visit, and some building complexes also have free public spaces that encourage people to stay a while. If you are looking for a local park, try The National Park Service: Find-A-Park link (although your state’s park resource may be more extensive). These are also the best places to have picnics, play games, exercise and indulge in creative outdoor adventures. (Suggestions: While at the park, identify different birds and flowers, or play a game of ‘Name That Hymn or Song’).
-3- Walking Along Beaches and Lakes – Being around a body of water had a calming effect on many. They are also great places to keep cool during the hot days (if the water is safe). We couldn’t find any website or resource that compiled all the free beaches in the U.S., but if you do a search by state, you should be able to find some and also free lake-front areas. (Suggestions: While there, consider collecting shells or smooth stones and use them for creating your own souvenirs).
-4- Indoor or Backyard Camping – If you have backyard space, consider camping on your own property! You can decide to be out for a few hours or overnight, but be sure to pack plenty of water, good food and blankets. If you don’t have a backyard, or if camping is not your thing, who said you cannot camp indoors! Use a large bed-sheet or a tent as your ‘home’ for the night, and improvise as needed. Whichever type of camping you decide upon (or if you decide to do both), be sure to fill the event with singing, Bible readings, and a few bible-themed games. (Suggestion: As a special family-bonding bonus, plan to put all mobile phones and gadgets away, so family members will be free from distractions for a few hours).
-5- Volunteering As A Family – You do not have to go very far to find people who are suffering. Every community has individuals who have needs and in the same breath, there are many community initiatives that are seeking to meet these needs. These initiatives are always looking for volunteers to help with their outreach events, soup kitchens, community clean-up and many other programs. Besides helping to alleviate the needs of others, these are great family building programs as well. (Suggestion: If you cannot find a charitable organization to volunteer with, perhaps gather your family’s gently-used clothes or non-perishable food and mail them to an organization of your choosing).
There are plenty of free and family-bonding activities out there, so be sure to peruse social media event sites, newspapers and local community-based websites to find those that interest you. God created mankind to enjoy the love and fellowship of the family unit so continue searching for events that encourage wholesome and spiritual togetherness. If you have any suggestion, we would love to hear about it. Until then, enjoy your family-focused summer!