15 Fun & Free Things To Do in The Valley This Summer

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Doing you ever feel like living in The Valley isolates you from taking advantage of all of the best free things to do in L.A.?

Not true!

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From free classes to outdoor concerts, movie screenings, and art fests, there is plenty to do in The San Fernando Valley without even having to drive over the hill (especially this summer!).

Most activities we listed below offer ample parking (take that, L.A.) and we’ve selected events from all over the Valley so your drive will hopefully be a short one.

Please let us know in the comments section of any events we might’ve missed.

Enjoy!

The Valley
The Valley. Credit: Kevin Dinkel via flickr

1. Free Concerts on The Green in Woodland Hills

From The Beatles tribute band to Latin jazz, there’s a  variety of music genres to enjoy at dates from June – August. The concerts start at 6:00pm. every Sunday and are perfect for a picnic on the lawn.

2.  Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” and “As You Like It”

If you enjoyed Shakespeare in Love than the comedic play “As You Like It” is right up your alley. Rosalind and Orlando are no Romeo and Juliet but she goes so far as to dress and present herself as a man (Ganymede) after she’s banished from the court.  Familiar with the saying “all the world’s a stage?” this play is the source of that line. “The Tempest” is considered to be the last play that Shakespeare wrote alone and follows the story of Prospero, the rightful duke of Milan, and his attempt to regain power for his daughter. Select dates in August have performances in Los Encinos Historic State Park (Encino) and Warner Center Park (Woodland Hills).

3. Summer Movie Fest at CSUN

At the CSUN Summer Movie Fest you can enjoy food truck fare and plenty of parking ($6 on campus). There will be raffles for university swag for $1 a ticket or you can donate food/clothing items that will benefit the San Fernando Rescue Mission. Movies range from classics like JAWS to contemporary favorites like Big Hero 6 and 22 Jump Street.

4. International Film Festival North Hollywood

At the International Film Festival they’ll be showcasing films including Babe and Guardians of the Galaxy with Pitfire Artisan Pizza and The Fat Dog NoHo offering specials for moviegoers.

5. Sun Sets Concert Series at Calabasas Lake

The Sun Sets Concert Series take place on Calabasas Lake Greenbelt, which is only open to the public during the concerts, with free park and ride shuttles available. Musical performances range from country to classical plus an ABBA tribute band.

6. Studio City Movies in the Park

Movies in the Park features three summer movie screenings, including this weekends showing of Despicable Me 2 with a special appearances by the real stars of the film, the minions. Free popcorn is available (while supplies last).

7. SFV Symphony Orchestra in Tarzana

It’s a casual affair at the Corbin Bowl with music ranging from jazz to blues. You must be at least 21 to attend.

8. Dancing Under the Stars in Sherman Oaks

Dancing Under the Stars is open to dancers of all levels with dance lessons provided by Arthur Murray Dance Studio.

9. Free Movies on the green in Woodland Hills

Indulge the kid in  you at this family-friendly movie screening series at The Valley Cultural Center.

10. Summertime Cinema at Westfield Fashion Square

As part of Westfield Summertime Cinema, these rooftop movie screenings in Sherman Oaks with movies ranging from Back to the Future and Toy Story.

11. Archery for Beginners at Woodley Park

Get in touch with your inner Katniss even if you’ve never touched a bow and arrow. At these free introductory classes all equipment is provided and instructors are on hand.

12. Rhythm & Joy Festival in Woodland Hills

The eco-friendly festival includes music, dance, yoga, art and a drum circle as well as a sustainable food court and marketplace.

13. Free Yoga at Sylmar Library

No yoga mat, no problem. The library has straps, mats and blocks for participants for the hour-long sessions every Saturday.

14.  Samba Dance in San Fernando

Join The Viver Brasil Dance Company for a Samba dance lesson followed by a free screening of Rio (natch).

15. “Three Artists You Should Know” exhibit in NoHo

Three Artists You Should Know” features artwork from Art Directors Guild members Corey Kaplan, production designer  for Scandal, Oscar-winning Production Designer Gene Allen of My Fair Lady and Scenic Artist Stasys Pinkus of Academy Awards and Jimmy Kimmel fame

What else do you know about that’s happening in The Valley this summer? Let us know in the comments below!

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