It's summer! The stress of school is off our minds for a few months, and we all want to make the most of our summer vacations.
Want to go out, but on a budget? Take a look at some inexpensive or free activities to do over the break. Monroe and the surrounding area has plenty of activities that don't cost a dime (or maybe a few dimes). Everything on this list is free or priced under $12!
Union County Library
Don’t forget to check out your local library this summer! Like most libraries, UCPL has a great summer learning program for all ages. We also have all types of programs for kids, teens and adults you can do. Don’t forget that you can borrow ebooks as well as audiobooks!
Visit the library's website for details:
Stumptown Park
This .9-acre park is used year round for concerts and special events. This summer they will have a great amount of events for families to enjoy. This includes food trucks and music, Charlotte Symphony Night, Independence Day Celebration, and Matthews Alive!
Visit the special events page for details:
Mint Museum
If you're like me, you enjoy learning a thing or two about history. If so, then the Mint Museum is the place for you! Both locations of the Mint Museum offer free admission every Wednesday from 5–9 PM.
MINT MUSEUM UPTOWN
500 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC
MINT MUSEUM RANDPLPH
2730 Randolph Rd, Charlotte, NC
UNC Charlotte
Botanical Gardens
The UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens hosts three garden sites with a total of sixteen collections. Across this location, there are bridges, a lake, some Japanese monuments, and wonderful trees, flowers and bushes.
Heads up if you go, parking is on campus of UNC Charlotte in a parking garage called East Wing. Admission to the gardens is free, but you may have to pay for parking.
Crowders Mountain
Crowders Mountain is one of two main peaks within Crowders Mountain State Park. It is a great hike during the week, especially when there's not to many hikers around. When you finish, however, you are rewarded with an amazing view at the top! You can finish the whole thing in about 2 hours.
A quick trip down I-85 and your off for a fantastic experience!
Festival of India
The Festival of India is an event which showcases the diversity of culture and heritage of India to the larger community in the Carolinas and provides an excellent opportunity for cultural exchange.
August 27, 2022 - 12pm - 8pm
Admissions - Tickets - $6 (at the gate)
130 North Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28202
Visit here for more details: Festival of India Carolinas
Music on the Green at Promenade on Providence
Promenade on Providence, located at 10844 Providence Road, is hosting a free summer concert series. These concerts will occur every Friday and Saturday from June 24th to September 24th, from 7pm to 10pm.
Visit the link for more details:
Yiasou Greek Festival
One of my favorite things to go to each year is this festival. It features Hellenic cultural exhibits, authentic Greek cuisine and homemade pastries, entertainment, live music, dancing, art, shopping, and more.
Sep 8 – 11, 2022
Thursday: 11am – 8pm | Friday: 11am – 10pm
Saturday: 11am – 10pm | Sunday: 12 noon – 6pm
Visit the link for more details:
Farmers' Markets
Charlotte is home to a lot of big and small farmers' markets. You can visit any near market you and discover a variety of goods, such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, and local crafts.
Visit the link to discover a farmers' market near you: Farmers' Markets