As the spring semester comes to an end, students begin looking forward to summer. While the Central Valley heat rises high, the season brings a variety of events for students to make the most of their time off.
Fresno offers a mix of activities with different interests and budgets. Summer events aren’t just something to do, they’re a way to connect with friends and take a break from academics.
This summer brings major music events to the area for both local students and visitors.
One of the main events is Luke Bryan’s Farm Tour which is coming to Clovis, California on May 15. General admission is around $90, making it one of the fastest selling events of the season.
For fans of early 2000’s R&B and hip-hop, “R&B Night Out” on May 30 at Woodward Park brings artists like Ray J., Bobby V., MC Magic and Mike Jones. General admission is around $57.
Another event is the “Sun Kissed Summer Festival” on June 13 at Chukchansi Park, with admission priced at $25 plus fees. This festival highlights summer energy in the Central Valley with music.
To cool off from heat in the city, beaches are free public areas to enjoy the summer with friends and family. But it is also good to have extra money for on the road snacks and souvenirs. Pismo Beach is a destination known for its relaxed atmosphere.
Another option is Monterey Bay, which is also a free public area. The area is well known for its views and marine life, and it also includes the Monterey Bay Aquarium, with admission at around $65 for those interested in exploring sea life exhibits.
There’s other ways to cool off from the heat while enjoying the summer without having to drive too far.
Waterparks remain a popular summer activity in the Central Valley.
Wild Water Adventure Park offers admission for about $38. Since their schedule can vary, it’s best to check their official website for updated hours and opening days.
Island Waterpark, which is open starting June 5 through Aug. 30, is another option. Their general admission is priced at $45. They also offer discount deal events such as “2 for Tuesday” (buy one ticket, get one free) and “Wavy Wednesday” (discounted tickets ranging from $28-$29.99).
Not every summer plan requires travel or expensive tickets. Fresno also has plenty of local and affordable options.
The Fresno Chaffee Zoo has admission at $23.95, making it an easy day activity for friends and families.
Movie nights are also a common summer hangout, with tickets usually ranging from $13–$20, depending on the theater or event, including spots like Regal Cinemas, Regal Manchester and Sierra Vista Cinemas 16.
Outside of planned events, many people also spend summer evenings hanging out with friends whether it’s sleepovers, late night drives or casual get togethers.
Tower District is a popular spot for friends that includes areas like live entertainment at Tower Theatre, touring bands at Strummer’s and local galleries.
Another hangout area is River Park, an outdoor shopping center with a variety of dining options, retail stores, movie theaters and department stores.
For those who enjoy staying active in the summer, locations like Sierra National Park, Yosemite National Park and Sequoia National Park offer hiking trails and nature experiences.
Trampoline parks, indoor rock climbing gyms and roller skating rinks are activity based locations to stay active while spending time together with friends.
Trampoline parks like Sky Zone Trampoline Park, where admission is around $32, and Aerozone Trampoline Park, which charges $14 per hour, are both popular spots for friends and family.
Roller skating rinks and indoor rock climbing such as United Skates of America have an admission of $14, while Metalmark Climbing has an admission of $40.
From concerts to simple hangouts, summer in Fresno offers a wide range of experiences for everyone. Whether you’re attending a festival, visiting the coast or staying with friends, the season gives everyone a chance to take a break and enjoy time outside of school.
