We live in one of the most beautiful, geographically diverse, and recreationally blessed regions in the country. From exciting cities to romantic small towns and farming communities, to rain forests, mountains, lakes, rivers, and ocean coasts, living in the Northwest can mean summer never has to be boring. But it doesn’t need to be expensive either.
Here are a few ideas for finding budget-friendly summer fun:
1. Explore the arts.
Check out local events calendars, social media pages, neighborhood groups, and arts organizations to keep abreast of local happenings around the region. Look for free or reduced-price entry days at museums and galleries, special showings at movie theatres like the Garland Theater and the Magic Lantern Theatre, as well as local parades, outdoor theatre performances, art walks, and arts and crafts fairs.
2. Check out the local music scene.
You don’t have to spend hundreds on concert tickets to find music that’s worth experiencing. Check out local music festivals, fairs, and outdoor events. If it’s your jam, venture out to local bars and nightclubs to find up and coming performers who’ll appreciate your attention.
3. Create your own backyard movie night.
A Portable video projector, Bluetooth speaker, and a sheet or a blank white wall is all you need.
4. Pack a picnic and spend a day at a city park, local beach, or find a view of the river.
Bring along Frisbees, Spikeball, or volleyball gear — the Options are endless. Invite friends and family for some light-hearted competition and cap off the event with a potluck or BBQ.
5. Cultivate the world around you.
Specifically, the space around your house. Whether you’re planting summer crops like lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs, or beautifying the space around you with plants and flowers, summer’s a great time to make your garden grow. Check out community gardens and gardening clubs for expert assistance and great ideas.
6. Grab an outdoor workout.
Get out of the gym and raise your heartrate on one of our regions copious running, hiking, and biking trails. Look for spots to drop a kayak or canoe into a local river, lake, or stream, or just jump into a pool or lake and take a vigorous swim. You’ll get all the benefits of an indoor workout with the added bonuses of fresh air, sunshine, and a change of pace.
7. Get on in, the water’s fine.
Whether it’s a swimming pool, a local lake, or a float down the river — jumping in the water on a hot day is summer at its best. Pack your air mattresses, floaties, sunscreen, and a good book to keep you company when you are on the shore and enjoy a day on the water.
8. Get competitive.
Check out local adult sports leagues for soccer, volleyball, softball and more. Join a running club, a cycling group, or take an outdoor yoga class. Go alone and meet new people or put together a group of friends or colleagues and sharpen your competitive spirit this summer.
9. Enjoy the bounty of an outdoor farmers market.
From fresh fruits and vegetables to beautiful flowers, artisanal and craft goods, and other locally produced items, shopping at a farmers’ market is fun. So, leave your shopping cart behind and check out the goods at one of our area’s local farmers markets.
10. Take a day trip!
Sometimes, a day away from the status quo is a great way to change Things up and add a little adventure and discovery to your life. Pack a few essentials then hit the road. Visit a neighboring town. Grab lunch in a small-town diner. There’s a lot to do and it’s all around us.
