Bargain View – Summer Edition
by Monica Barber
You don’t need to break your budget to have a great time in Modesto during the summer.
As they say, ‘Adventure can be found in your own backyard’ and looking no further than the vicinity of the Modesto area can yield a handful of activities that will delight your whole family at a minimal cost.
Spare yourself the cost of gas, and take a walk on the art side every third Thursday to enjoy the creative atmosphere that is in Modesto’s own backyard. Modesto’s 9th annual Third Thursday Art Walk is a free event that boasts some great artwork and showcases a variety of businesses in downtown Modesto. Find more details here: modestoartwalk.com
Those looking to swim but are without the option of an on-site swimming pool can head over to Johansen High School for recreational swimming that is open to the public. Admission fees run between $1-2 for all ages. Swim cards can be purchased at 10th Street Plaza.
The pool is open Mon-Sat 1-4pm Jun 15-Aug 3. Closed dates: June 25 & 26, and July 4. Additional hours are available for adult’s lap swimming which is scheduled daily from 10:30am-12:30pm and 4:30pm-6:30pm.
If you’re nostalgic for the old days of drive in movies and want to enjoy a little family fun under the stars definitely check out Family Night Films at the Park. Enjoy free family films and games at Graceda Park every Friday night at 7pmAugust 17- September 21. Admission is free.
Ready for some big music while picnicking under the stars? MoBand plays its Concerts in the Park series every Thursday night starting at 8pm. Bring a picnic dinner and a bottle of wine and enjoy the fun atmosphere. The six-concert series runs until July 12. Admission is free. Don’t forget to put your blanket out near Mancini Bowl early in the day to reserve a prime spot.
Looking for a little more night music? Check out an Off the Air show at Deva Cafe on J St. for only $5. Off the Air features local and regional artists in a showcase that runs from 8pm-11pm. Keep an eye on facebook.com/offtheair for a complete schedule.
For more music, stop by the Queen Bean for open-mic nights on Sundays and take in a few local favorites. Live a dream and offer up your talents. Shows typically start around 7pm. Purchase is required.
Hit the lanes! When was the last time you went bowling? If it sounds fun, head over to McHenry Bowl for some reasonably priced fun on Sunday and Tuesday evenings from 9Pm to Midnight. Admission is $5 per person and tokens will run you a quarter each. Lane, shoe rental and a drink will run you less than $10.
For even more affordable fun, check out information about local farmer’s markets at modestocfm.com and learn about the special events that the Modesto Nuts serve up at modestonuts.com.
Enjoy the summer safely! Don’t forget the SPF and smiles.
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