Summer is in full swing and at Jeffrey Kwong Orthodontics, it’s got us excited about all the fun events going on in our neighborhood. Many of the parents at our El Dorado Hills orthodontic office struggle to keep their kids busy during the summer months when the school year is out. Fortunately, there are so many awesome things to do with kids in Sacramento and El Dorado Hills that are sure to keep your family busy all summer long.
Our patients loved our round-up to the best free (or cheap) summer activities last year so we’ve decided to do it again! Read on for the coolest, most exciting and totally affordable things to do this summer.
- Cruise the American River Bike Trail
Get the kids outside this summer and enjoy the natural beauty of Sacramento on the American River Bike Trail. Running along the American River, this two-lane trail offers 32 miles of stunning views all the way from Discovery Park to the southwestern banks of Folsom Lake. Pack a lunch and take advantage of the picnic spots along the way. And don’t forget your swimsuit and a life jacket ”” there are a few swimming areas, too!
- Get Your Dance On and Warm Up Your Vocal Cords at an Outdoor Summer Concert
What better way to enjoy these amazing summer nights than with a free outdoor concert? On July 19th, groove to the tunes of country rock band Cliff Huey 27 Outlaws. The show starts at 7pm at the El Dorado Hills Community Services District and is free for everyone. There are so many options with the “Live on the Boulevard” concert series at El Dorado Hills Town Center and “Wednesday Night Summer Concerts” at the Palladio in Folsom.
- Check Out the Kids Bike Festival
Have a bike fanatic in the family? On Sunday, July 14th, head to Phoenix Park for the annual Kids Bike Festival and let your inner gearhead celebrate all things bikes. The event is free to attend but if your kiddo wants to race, it’ll cost $7 to sign up ahead of time or $10 at the gate.
- Visit the California State Fair
It wouldn’t be summer in Sacramento without a day at the California State Fair. While admission isn’t free, there are ways to avoid breaking the bank. To get in for cheap, visit the fair on a Tuesday ”” kids under 12 get in for free and carnival rides are just $2 a pop. Also, in the past our local Costcos have had bundles for tickets and parking. It would be worth giving them a call to find out if they are available.
- Enjoy Free Summer Movies in the Park
Everyone’s favorite summer activity is back at Village Park in Fair Oaks. Enjoy free movies under the stars, complete with popcorn, hot dogs and ice cream. The flick slated for July 19th is one for the whole family: Hotel Transylvania 3! For $1 summer movies, head to Regal in El Dorado Hills on Tuesdays and Wednesday nights, or Cinemark Theaters in Folsom.
- Spend Family Time at The Makers’ Place
Have you heard about The Maker’s Place? It’s an “intentionally-designed multipurpose space where working parents can create, connect, and collaborate while their young children are cared for onsite.” You don’t need to be a member to take advantage of free family fun at The Makers’ Place all summer long. They have kid-friendly events like board game nights, book and toy swaps, clothing exchanges and more. Events are always free of charge and childcare is available for a small fee. Check the schedule for more details and to sign up!
- Tour the Jelly Belly Factory
Alright, folks what do you think are the most popular Jelly Belly flavors in America are? The top 10 Jelly Belly flavors are: 10) Coconut, 9) Toasted Marshmallow, 8) Green Apple, 7) Orange, 6) Juicy Pear, 5) Cherry, 4) Watermelon, 3) Cinnamon, 2) Black Licorice (really???) and ”¦ 1) Buttered Popcorn. My top 10 list looks a lot different, and it’s a tie at the top for Strawberry Cheesecake and Strawberry Daiquiri. So if the summer heat is starting to get to you, step inside for an unforgettable experience at the Jelly Belly Factory. The factory tour is open to the public all year round and walking tours are 100% free (and there are paid options as well). And yes, free samples are included!
- Play at the Single Moms Strong Free Summer Sports Series
Single moms, this one’s for you! Join together with moms in Sacramento while your little ones run and play to their hearts’ content. There’s a new sport each month ”” July is volleyball and August is everyone’s favorite, kickball! Sign up via Eventbrite. They are looking for a few good men to help volunteer as well, so if you’re interested in making a positive impact in a child’s life, this is a great opportunity.
- Spend Quiet Time at the El Dorado Hills Public Library
Summer is the perfect time to soak up some downtime with your little ones. The El Dorado Hills branch of the El Dorado County Library has kid-friendly events throughout the summer, from story time for all ages to LEGO building classes to STEM programs with 3D printers. Check the schedule for an up-to-date listing of events and take advantage of everything the library has to offer.
There you have it, folks. We hope you make the most of Summer 2019. All of these activities make for great opportunities to spend quality time with your family.
