How to have the best summer

It's fun – and it's free!
Looking to fill up on fun without emptying your pockets? Here are some ideas.
• Festivals abound in the summer, whether it's a music festival with free concerts in a busy downtown core, Shakespeare in the Park at sunset or an art festival showcasing local works in a farmer's field. Just meandering through the crowds and people-watching can often be entertainment enough.

• Whether vacationing abroad or in your own backyard, explore surrounding neighbourhoods, parks or beaches that you've never ventured to before.

• Television shows are always looking for people to fill their studio audiences, so keep your eyes peeled for anything filmed in your area. The best place to check for audience requests is a show's website, such as www.cbc.ca/toronto/community.

• Don't underestimate a library, which often hosts free community events, seminars and storytimes as well as posting local guides. Universities and colleges open their doors to the public with similar events.

• Many museums and art galleries wave the entrance fee on specific days and times. Admission to the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, for example, is free one hour before closing.

• Check out rural farmer's markets and flea markets; even if you don't spend money you'll have fun poking around for hidden treasures.

• Most maps will point you toward the nearest hiking trails. Pack a picnic lunch and head for the hills.

• Canada boasts more than 31,000 lakes. Pick one and make a day of relaxing by the water and reconnecting with nature.

• When in doubt, visit the local and provincial tourism offices. The staff will be able to recommend free activities in the area.

Simple pleasures
Summer is filled with simple pleasures just waiting to be enjoyed. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

• Grab a basket and start picking on the first day of strawberry season.
• Commission your parents to teach their grandkids the foxtrot.
• Escape to a conservation park with a baguette-and-Brie picnic.
• Run through a sprinkler with your clothes on.
• Open an umbrella for two and stroll in the rain while holding hands.
• Leave your suit jacket behind and eat lunch outside at a picnic table.
• Nap in the shade and concentrate on nothing but the gentle breeze.
• Take a late-night swim, clothing optional.
• Discover summer's bounty at a local farmer's market.
• Make a batch of ice cream from scratch.


Page 2 of 3 -- On page 3, find fun summer projects the whole family will enjoy!