Summer Fun in Kansas

Summer afternoons in Kansas can be 55–105 degrees – you just never know.  But even the hottest days should not keep you from the abundance of fun activities you can enjoy this summer in Topeka and surrounding communities.

Here’s some of our favorites:

Ice Cream.  A favorite family summer tradition is at the end the day make a quick trip to get an ice cream cone.  Nothing says summer like the art of making the cone last as long as it can in the sweltering heat.  We like to check out the month’s flavor at Dairy Queen or Baskin Robins.

Outdoor movies.  Churches, parks, recreation departments, and hotels invite you to bring a blanket and enjoy a movie with others in the community.  You might want to bring the bug spray!

Music Festivals.   Topeka has many music festivals all summer long. One or more is sure to feature your favorite style of music.  If you enjoy the guitar, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, autoharp and both hammer and mountain dulcimers; you will want to journey to the Walnut Festival at Winfield, Kan.  It is one of Kansas’ best kept secrets for Summer music and fun.

Drive-In Movies.  In the age of Netflix and cineplexes, there is something wonderful about cramming the family into a car to watching a first run movie on a huge screen on a warm night under the stars.  We are fortunate to have two in nearby Kansas City, the I-70 Drive-In and the Twin Drive-In.  It is a great way to conclude the day after mowing and honey do’s.

County Fairs.  One of the oldest traditions of summer is the fun and entertainment to be found at county fairs! From the livestock to music to crafts and demonstrations, there is something for everyone at the county fair!

Baseball and more.  Even if you’re not a baseball fan, who doesn’t love eating a stadium hotdog and people-watching?  It’s always a great family time to take in a game by the Kansas City Royals. You can also check out the many local games of various sports in Topeka and other smaller towns in the area.

Picnicking.  Many churches love to celebrate summer with a picnic at a local park.  The kids are always happy playing on the playground equipment and Mom gets a break.  The same idea works for just your own family on a moment’s notice.

Museums and art. Experiencing learning first hand through a field trip or camp experience is a wonderful tool for homeschool families. Many museums are free or inexpensive. At a young age, children can learn by describing and verbalizing about the exhibits and asking questions. The younger the child, the shorter the attention span, so looking at a variety of historical paintings and displays can be a delightful and memorable experience for the whole family. Children can learn history, art and culture simultaneously.

There are also several art camps and Vacation Bible Schools that would fit the bill. Arts Centers also offers various art classes during the summer for children as well as adults.

Parades. Americans love parades! From Memorial Day to Independence Day to Veterans Day and everything in between, a parade is a great chance to get outdoors with your neighbors and enjoy the day.

Be original. What is your favorite way to enjoy summer?

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