Want a very frugal way to get a little culture in your family’s life? Why not try a free summer music concert? Sometimes hard to find, these little gems are a great way to spend some of your summer.
Nearly every town or every other town has its own version of free summer concerts. They can vary from huge productions with well-known artists to small home-grown meet in the town park affairs. I’ve seen summer concerts with such stars as the Boston pops and Amy Grant, as well as local acts, such as one great Celtic group and other group that was amazing with swing music. and, there are always many groups that play classical and jazz music.
Some concerts are held during the day, while others meet under the stars. The day time concerts are fun, because they have a sort of come and go atmosphere. You can wander in, listen for a bit, wander out and get lunch and then wander back in again. Many times, these day time concerts offer great vendors that sell everything from ice cream to crafts. Of course being frugal, you can just browse.
The night time concerts are truly magical. There is nothing like wrapping your little ones up in a blanket and having them fall asleep in your arms, and under the stars, to the soothing tones of great music. Sigh.
When you go to these concerts, be sure to bring some supplies. I have seen some pretty elaborate set ups at free summer concerts, such as tables with tablecloths, wine and candles. But, you really only need a few basics. Bring a blanket to sit on, another blanket to wrap around yourselves and get cozy if the temperature drops in the evening, a citronella candle bucket, and a picnic lunch, dinner or snacks.
To find these little gems, check with your town hall or borough hall, look for flyers at the library, look online and ask around. It is a lot of fun to grab your supplies and your family, and listen to some great music, all for free.
Mary Ann Romans also writes for the Computing Blog here at Families.com where she shares everything from the latest news on technology to cool downloads and fun websites.
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