Happy Parks and Recreation Month, San Diego! Spend time outdoors at some of these free, family-friendly activities.

Movies in the Park

Summer Movies in the Park is in full swing with 137 showings at 86 sites across the County – including 22 on lawns managed by County Parks. Watch “The Jungle Book” at Rancho Penasquitos Adobe, “Trolls” at Pine Valley County Park and “La La Land” at Heritage County Park – those are just a few of the many films that are playing on a large inflatable screen this month. Movies start 15 minutes after sunset – view the full schedule here.  And thanks to a new title sponsorship by Sharp Rees-Stealy, pre-show activities may include a “Hands Up For Health” presentation. Led by a team of fitness professionals, attendees can participate in a group stretch and get tips on how to lead healthier, happier lives.

Survival Skills

New to the events calendar this summer is a four-week course on outdoor survival skills, led by the talented team at San Dieguito County Park. This hands-on activity covers a myriad of important techniques, from how to tie the right knot for the right activity, to how to locate water and food – even how to build a relatively weather-proof shelter. Classes take place from 2 to 3 p.m. on the following Sundays: July 2, 9, 16 and 24. There is no cost to attend and all materials will be provided. For more information, call the park at 858-755-2386.   

Live Well San Diego 31-Day Fitness Challenge

Sign up for daily fitness tips and challenges, like a hike to Volcan Mountain summit to watch the 4^th of July fireworks or a bike ride through Los Penasquitos Canyon, via the Live Well San Diego 31-Day Fitness Challenge. The County is hosting more than 20 open-air activities in parks and preserves across San Diego. This is a unique opportunity to try new things, meet new people and get a great workout while preparing for the Live Well San Diego 5K at the end of the month. Visit LiveWellSD.org/31-Day for more information.

Intro to Family Hiking

Ranger Eric will lead a short beginner’s trek through Santa Ysabel East County Preserve while discussing essentials for a successful hike. Gain practical tips about what to eat and drink before the hike, what to pack, what to wear, what to expect and where to go to get information. Park near 500 Farmer Road and meet in the staging area at 4 p.m. on July 22. For more information, call the park at 760-765-4098.  

Hullabaloo

Finally, on July 30, all ages (specially younger park guests) will enjoy a special evening of singing and dancing at Waterfront Park! Hullabaloo is a free-range, organic, folk concert featuring a foot-stomping, wing-flapping celebration of song designated for kids that honors and entertains all. The fun takes place from 6 to 7 p.m. on Civic Green 5 at Waterfront Park. Come early to beat the heat and splash around in the fountains!