Free Family Fun in Plano This Summer

Most people would agree: It’s amazing to be a kid in the summer. But not so great – being an adult and dishing out tons of cash to keep your children entertained for three months. We’ve compiled a list of free, family-friendly activities in Plano that – believe it or not – you’ll actually want to do, too. So grab the sunscreen, buckle up the entire gang and get ready for the best, cheapest summer ever.

15^th Annual Asiafest 2018 

Asian culture, food and entertainment will prevail at the 15^th annual Asiafest May 5 at Haggard Park. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the gorgeous calligraphy on display, fashion show, martial arts and dance demonstrations, classic Asian cuisine and more. Kids can participate in their own form of painting, drawing and modeling as well in the Children’s Corner.

McCall Plaza Events 

Friday and Saturday nights are exciting at McCall Plaza, with free events almost every weekend. Pop up a chair during the Downtown Sessions, featuring bands in the Americana genre, including Thieving Birds May 5, The Bodarks May 12 and The O’s May 19. Or put on your dancing shoes May 4 and June 1 and learn how to bust a move with the Dance Council of North Texas. Finally, bring Spot along May 11 and June 8, as Paws on the Plaza and trainer Jason Godwin return to teach your dog various tricks and obedience tips.

Downtown Plano Movies in the Park 

Enjoy a beautiful summer evening while watching the animated film, “LEGO Ninjago,” first in the Downtown Plano Movies in the Park series at Haggard Park June 30. Before the show, participate in special contests and activities, and be sure to stop by the food trucks for a tasty snack. The series continues the last Saturdays in July and August.

North Texas Pride Fest 

Diversity is part of Plano’s charm, and should be celebrated. Join the 8^th annual, family-friendly North Texas Pride Fest at Haggard Park June 9 to enjoy food trucks, live entertainment, giveaways, dancing and kids’ activities. It’s an opportunity to get to know the community and support the North Texas Pride Foundation, which advocates for unity, equality and community integration for LGBTQ and straight allies.

Plano Community Band Concerts in the Park 

For almost 40 years, the Plano Community Band has been putting on outstanding, free performances and entertaining people of all ages. Catch them at the Concert in the Park series at Haggard Park June 4 and 18. Lie back on the lawn and listen to the band with the entire family (including your dog). The annual “Kids Night Out” concert is June 18 this year and includes a face painter, a balloon artist and a chance for little ones to conduct the band and dance like chickens.

Plano Parks and Recreation 50^th Anniversary Open Houses

Can you believe Plano Parks and Recreation has been around 50 years? In honor of its anniversary, it’s hosting open house events all year. The next two will be at the Oak Point Park Nature and Retreat Center May 5, and at the High Point Tennis Center June 2. Both events will include free health and wellness information and screenings, class demonstrations, personal trainer assessments, giveaways and activities geared toward kids.

Summer Fun Thursdays  at The Shops at Willow Bend

At Summer Fun Thursdays, presented by Crayola Experience Plano at The Shops at Willow Bend, the pre-show starts at noon with trivia, games and prizes. Main events begin at 1 p.m. June 7 will feature the Julio and Kelly Clown Show; June 14 it is Spaghetti Eddie and fun children’s songs; June 21 showcases the Amazing Bubble Man, and June 28 will star Professor Newton, who will show off his incredible science demonstrations in interactive ways.

World’s Largest Swim Lesson 

Swimming pools equal summer fun – but can also be deadly. The World Waterpark Association reminds that swimming lessons save lives; it has been hosting the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson since 2010 and has held the Guinness World Record since 2014. Join this global awareness day June 21 at Jack Carter Pool; learn water safety skills with thousands of other people from around the world. All ages can benefit from the refresher. Spread the message that drowning is preventable!

Registration for the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson opens May 5.