Summer in Orange County is a time for family fun, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy it. Whether you’re a local or visiting, there are plenty of budget-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. Here are six of our top picks for free or low-cost summer events in Orange County.
1. Free Movies Under the Stars
Enjoying a movie under the night sky is a magical experience, and Orange County offers several opportunities for free outdoor screenings. OC Parks’ annual Sunset Cinema Series takes place in various parks throughout the county, providing a range of classic films and recent blockbusters. These screenings also often include live music, food trucks, yard games and even character meet-and-greets before the shows begin!
The Irvine Spectrum also hosts their Spectrum Summer Cinema on their Giant Wheel lawn, where you can watch popular movies at no cost. Don’t forget to bring a blanket and some snacks!
2. Summer Concerts in the Park
Music lovers will find plenty to enjoy with the numerous free summer concerts held in local parks. The OC Summer Concert Series is the most popular, featuring awesome local artists and cover bands. If you don’t want to pack your own picnic, a number of food trucks are on site. Those 21+ can also enjoy a beer and wine garden!
Additionally, Tustin’s Concerts in the Park series at Peppertree Park and Cypress Summer Concerts on the Green series at Cypress Civic Center Green offer a variety of other great free shows. Each features a great selection of shows with different music genres, so you’re bound to find a show you’ll love! These events are perfect for a family outing with a picnic blanket and some snacks.
3. Art Walks
Immerse yourself in the local art scene with free or low-cost art walks held throughout the summer! The Laguna Beach First Thursdays Art Walk is a great event where galleries open to the public and provide free shuttle services to explore the art district.
Similarly, the Downtown Santa Ana Art Walk, held on the first Saturday of each month, features over 25 galleries, numerous vendors, live performances, and art activities for kids, creating a fun and engaging environment for art lovers of all ages!
4. Nature Trails and Hikes
For those who love the great outdoors, Orange County is home to several breathtaking nature trails for a day of hiking. Check out our guide to the best shaded hikes in Orange County to find all the cool, scenic trails that are perfect for escaping the summer heat. For those kids a bit too young to hike on their own, you can also check out our list of the best stroller-friendly hikes the county has to offer as well.
5. OC Regional Parks
One unique feature of Orange County is that it’s home to several incredible regional parks, which are not just beautiful for a picnic or a stroll but also often provide a range of activities for a nominal fee. Irvine Regional Park located in Orange is among our favorites, offering hiking trails, playgrounds, paddle boats, and even train and pony rides for a super affordable price (e.g. it’s only $8 for a pony ride). Their also home to the Orange County Zoo, which offers admission at just $2 per person!
However, every one of OC’s Regional Parks is worth exploring because each offers something unique. For example, Carbon Canyon Regional Park in Brea is known for its scenic trails, including a short hike to see the famous Redwood Grove (the only place they grow in Southern California). Mile Square Regional Park in Fountain Valley meanwhile offers unique activities such as an archery range and fishing lakes.
6. Farmers Markets
Exploring local farmers markets is a fantastic way to spend a day, and cities throughout Orange County offer them every day of the week but Monday! Entry is always free and whether or not you choose to spend money on the fresh produce or artisinal goods they offer, you can still enjoy the ambiance and the fun of seeing what is being offered. Many even feature live music and fun free activities just for kids to enjoy!