Summer is finally here. Our final day of school for the year was Friday. Now that summer has arrived, with it comes the age old question “what can we do now mom”? Luckily, there are a number of ways to spend the summer, and most of them are inexpensive or free.  We will be participating in our library’s summer reading program as well, but here are a few of my other favorites. If you know of any, pleae post yours as well. I would love to know what else is out there.

Check out Regal Entertainment Group’s Free Family Film Festival. Each Tuesday and Wednesday at 10AM during the festival, select G & PG movies are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Seating is limited to theatre capacity. See if your state is participating, and get the movie schedule at Regal.

Visit Bass Pro Shops Family Summer Camp May 30th through July 5th, Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to Six for free crafts, free s’mores,  laser shooting gallery, casting pond, and shooting range. Check the Bass Pro Shops site to see if your store is participating.

Two free games of bowling (shoe rental required) all summer long at participating locations. Check here to find a location near you.

Free Kids Workshop at The Home Depot. This is actually available all year on the first Saturday of every month from 9AM to Noon at all Home Depot stores. 

Kids earn a free book with Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program. After your child reads eight books, and completes the Summer Reading Journal, they will receive a coupon for a free book (eligible books will be listed on the coupon).

Half Price Books Summer Reading Program available June 1st through July 31st provides kids 12 and under a $3 Half Price Books shopping card for each week they read at least 15 minutes per day. Find a Half Price Books location near you.