Summer Fun for MilFams

Summer is a great time to rest and relax with family and friends. And, if your kids are anything like mine, it’s the time of year when you hear “I’m bored” usually before they’ve even finished breakfast. Fortunately, free and low-cost activities are available to military families to help keep kids active and engaged all summer long.

morale, welfare, and recreation programs

The MWR programs at your nearest military installation are a great place to start the hunt for fun summer activities for your family. Installation offices provide a variety of quality of life programming, travel discounts, and even virtual content to help your kids stay active and entertained this summer. DoD MWR Libraries even offer a summer reading program at select in-person locations and online if you’re traveling for the summer.

kids bowl free

By registering with Kids Bowl Free this summer, kids can take advantage of two FREE games of bowling all summer long. There are locations across the country, including many military installation bowling centers. Visit KidsBowlFree.com to learn more and find the participating location nearest you.

vettix

VetTix secures tickets for various sporting events, concerts, performing arts, and family activities across the country and provides them for a small delivery fee to actively serving military and veteran families. If you want to see what tickets are available, go to VetTix.org to verify eligibility and create an online account.

blue star museums

Blue Star Museums provides free admission to active duty service members (including the National Guard and Reserve) and their families from Armed Forces Day on May 20, 2023 to Labor Day on September 4, 2023. Museums from across the country participate in the program, including art museums, children’s museums, zoos, nature centers, and more. Visit the Blue Star Museums Map to find a participating location near you.

Military Teen Adventure Camp

Finding summer activities for military-connected teens can be a challenge, but thanks to Military Teen Adventure Camps, military-connected teens have the opportunity to go whitewater rafting, hiking, rock climbing, and participate in other outdoor activities this summer. With the support of Purdue University, these camps are offered at little or no cost to military-connected teens aged 13-18. Visit the Military Teen Adventure Camps website to learn more about the program and find a camp location near you!

Hopefully, these resources will give you a head start on planning summer fun. Visit Military OneSource to learn more about summer programs and activities near you.

Happy Summer from all of us here at Team MFAN!