You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a great summer.
From celebrating Fourth of July with fireworks and parades, to listening to music in Piedmont Park, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the beautiful weather around metro Atlanta for free.
Here are five ways to save money and still have a great time this July:
Fourth of July events
Whether you’re looking to see an amazing fireworks show or participate in a local parade, there are plenty of free options for things to do in metro Atlanta this Fourth of July. Head to Lenox Square and watch their highly-anticipated 15-minute fireworks show or head to the Marietta Square for a parade, fireworks, kid-friendly arts and crafts and more.
Attend an outdoor movie series
Going to the movies as a family can be expensive, but there is one way to get in on the fun for free. More than 20 outdoor movie series will take place throughout metro Atlanta this summer, so there are plenty of opportunities for families to watch films such as “Zootopia” and “Captain America: Civil War” locally. All you’ll need are a few blankets and snacks to have a good time!
Sunset Sessions
There will be four opportunities for Atlanta residents and visitors to experience live music in the park for free. Head to Piedmont Park every Sunday in July (and in August, too) to hear alternative music from various artists. Participate in giveaways and meet personalities from Radio 105.7 each week. Specialty seasonal cocktails, house brews and half-off sushi will also be available from 10 p.m. to midnight each week.
You must be 21 years old or older to attend Sunset Sessions.
If You Go: 7 p.m. July 10, 17, 24 and 31. Free. Piedmont Park, 500 10th Street, Atlanta. Parktavern.com.
Visit the Atlanta History Center
Admission to the Atlanta History Center will be free on Saturday, July 2 in celebration of the new exhibit “Gatheround: Stories of Atlanta.” Attendees will have access to 33-acre campus, including all exhibits and historic homes.
“Gatheround: Stories of Atlanta” is an exhibit that features live theater performances and interactive activities in an effort to teach participants about the history of the city.
Learn more about the characters you'll encounter at the exhibit at Atlantahistorycenter.com.
If You Go: 10 a.m.-5:30 a.m. July 2. Free. Atlanta History Center, 130 West Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta. Atlantahistorycenter.com.
Relive the 1996 Olympics
Head to Centennial Olympic Park on July 16 for a free event in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games. Athletes, volunteers, organizers and fans will relive their favorite moments from the games, and musicians will perform at this event.
Gates open at 5 p.m.
If You Go: 5 p.m. July 16. Free. Centennial Olympic Park, 265 Park Ave., Atlanta CentennialPark.com.
BONUS: DIY Summer School
Looking for a fun and affordable way to make sure your children are still learning throughout summer? Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning is helping parents create a “DIY Summer School” schedule for their kids, specifically children 5 years old or younger.
From reading their favorite book to animal charades and shapes scavenger hunt, here is a month worth of (mostly) free activities that you can do with your children this summer.
About the Author
