Because of any number of reasons, not all people are able to go on a trip during the summer months. However, it does not mean that you can’t have a memorable summer.

Salisbury really works hard to have, recruit and bring exciting events to our city. So even if you don’t have any plans to go anywhere on a vacation, plan your summer with exciting events during your “staycation”!

An amazing kickoff was Pops at the Post this past Saturday. It is quite a treat to have this kind of event right here in Salisbury. Next Sunday, June 14 from 2-6 p.m., Downtown Salisbury is hosting its second annual “Streets Alive” event. The streets will be closed and anything non-motorized is welcome.

There will be booths and activities for the whole family. Bounce houses, health fair and of course the YMCA will have a booth and activities, too. Best of all, it’s free!

Another fun activity for you and family is Movies at the Park. This is a free event and it is located at City Park on the corner of Miller and Jackson streets. Pre-activities start at 8 p.m., and the movie starts at 9 p.m. Be sure to bring blankets and chairs. Upcoming moves are: “The Boxtrolls, June 12; Mr. Peabody and Sherman, June 26; The Book of Life, July 10; How to Train Your Dragon, July 24; Cinderella, August 7.

Of course, we also have beautiful Dan Nicolas Park where many of the activities are free and if there is a cost for anything, it’s very low. How about a day at Tiger World? Cost is $15 for adults and $12 for kids. One of my favorite activities is Lazy 5 Ranch. I prefer to go on the horse-drawn wagon through the park. Drive-through entry is $11 adults and $8 kids and seniors. If you go on the horse-drawn wagon, it’s $16 for adults and $11 for kids and seniors.

I have mentioned Salisbury Community Park before. It is off Hurley School Road and it’s a beautiful (and my favorite) park to take your dog(s) on a leash, your mountain bike, or run or walk the trails. There is also a paved path that goes past Salisbury Community Lake with plenty of fish for the catching, which can be a great fun family event. Make sure you get your permit through NC Wildlife before you throw your line in the lake!

As you can see, with planning and a little bit of research, you can have a fun-filled, active summer. Of course, at our YMCA we have a fun-filled summer with full-day camps and a half-day sports camp. How about coming to the pool and splash pad with your family? Or indoor climbing wall with all kinds of challenges from easy to super hard. Our Saleebe Fisher YMCA in Rockwell has an outdoor ropes course and outdoor trails for your walks and runs. The Fred Corriher Branch in China Grove also has a splash pad and fields and trails to stay active in a fun safe environment. Or, join a local outdoor pool. Just because you are not going on a vacation doesn’t mean that this summer will be uneventful or boring. Check your budget (if any at all), check your days and plan this summer so it is memorable, fun and active for you and your family. And if it’s just you, check with your local YMCA, churches or Rufty-Homes Senior Center for fun-filled trips and activities to keep you active and excited throughout the summer.

I am wishing everyone a wonderful and fit and active summer whether it’s a vacation or staycation!

Ester H Marsh, Associate Executive Director JF Hurley YMCA