Family Friendly Activities To Do In The Spring

As the weather warms up, engaging in outdoor activities can significantly benefit both personal well-being and community connection. Here are some ideas for you, your family, and friends. Spending time outdoors boosts exposure to sunlight, which supports vitamin D production. It also helps reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, lowers stress levels, and enhances mental clarity. Being in nature has a calming effect on the mind, reducing stress and anxiety while improving mood and overall life satisfaction.

Outdoor Fitness Classes

Yoga or Tai Chi classes in the park.

Walks, Hikes and Cycling

Group hikes, cycling groups, or jogging/ walking meetups on trails and local parks.

Participate in Local Farmer’s Markets

Check for farmer’s market locations in your city. Some markets operate year-round, but during warmer months, they tend to feature more vendors offering a diverse selection of food and products.

Picnics and Barbecues in Local Parks

Invite your family and friends to bring food and enjoy an afternoon outdoors. It’s a fun way to enjoy each other while cooking outdoors.

Outdoor Movie Nights or Concerts

Screen movies or live music events in a park or at outdoor events. Provides free or low-cost entertainment options.

Community Clean-Up

Host a clean-up event or volunteer for a city-organized initiative focused on parks or neighborhoods.

Gardening

Plant food or flower gardens in your backyard or get involved in a community garden.

Sports Tournaments (e.g., Soccer, Basketball, Softball, Tennis, Pickleball)

Set up friendly competitions or casual games in local fields or courts. Or participate in Show Me State Games or find a local team to join.

Outdoor Festivals

Participate in local music festivals, art & crafts shows, heritage festival, and other local outside events.

Nature Walks or Educational Tours

Organize or participate in guided tours of nearby parks, forests, or nature reserves, where you can learn about the local flora, fauna, or history.

Host Outdoor Reading or Storytelling Sessions

Organize or participate in a book club or outdoor reading hour in the park for all ages. Reading in nature provides a peaceful setting for learning and reflection.

Community Playgrounds

Usually found in state parks, local parks, schools and neighborhoods. Great space to meet and interact – climbing walls, monkey bars, swings, obstacle courses, slides, tunnels, skateboarding, and so much more.

There are plenty of ways to find out what’s happening in your city! Here are some effective methods to keep you updated on local events, activities, and news:

• City or Community Websites

• Social Media

• Event Apps

• Local Newspapers and Magazines

• Tourism Websites and Visitor Centers

• Local Radio Stations and Podcasts

• Event Flyers and Posters

• Ask Friends, Family, and Coworkers

• Local Libraries and Community Center

• Local Event Websites

• Online Local Forums or Groups

By using a combination of these methods, you’ll be able to stay in the loop and find great outdoor activities happening around your city. Whether you’re looking for a festival, a farmers’ market, or a new art exhibit, there’s always something to discover!

By Jenny L. Workman, Community Wellness Manager