Free for the Summer

School's out, the sun is out. It is time for some summer fun. But how can you get the most out of summer on the North Shore without breaking the bank? Here are a few ideas of free things you might want to do.

If the first weeks of June are an indication of the summer weather to come, having a few indoor rainy day activities will be important. For families with kids under 12, register on-line at www.kidsbowlfree.com to get daily passes to bowl at one of the local participating bowling alleys, or Cape Ann Lanes in Gloucester.   

Hungry after bowling? Head over to a Ninety-nine restaurant where kids 10 and under can order a free kids meal the day after a Red Sox win. Hopefully, there will be many days of free meals!

Thanks to the Highland Street Foundation, museums are free for everyone on certain Fridays throughout the summer starting June 29 with the followed by the on July 6.

Many free rainy-day activities for all ages take place at the . There are games, movies, book groups, and more. Every Wednesday during the summer the library hosts a special event starting on June 20 with the .  Stop in to see what might interest you.

Hopefully there will be plenty of good weather for events later this week.  On Friday, June 15, the S and 30 minutes of free play at the Wenham Village Improvemnet Society tennis courts. Then on June 17, Sundays at Patton Park kicks off with Broadway in the Park concert from 5-7 p.m. Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy a free concert. If it rains, call 978-468-4818 to find the indoor concert location.

Don’t forget the 2 Town 4th Celebration at is also a great community event for all. Some of the activities and food do cost something, but the celebration is free.

Check back after the July 4th holiday for some more ideas about free summer fun.