Summertime in Columbia is, to quote and mangle Dickens, simultaneously the quietest and the busiest season.
The pace of urban life slows down somewhat as many college students return to their home towns. However, permanent residents—particularly those with children—keep the season vibrant with fresh, energetic pursuits.
If you’re a parent or caregiver searching for activities to enjoy with your family—or if you worry that summertime might mean less opportunity to sharpen your parenting abilities—there’s no need to look elsewhere. Below are approximately 30 dates worth noting from June through August.
Return to your preferred groups and local government sites as they refresh and expand their summer event schedules.
June
4: Coding Unplugged:
Spark interest in programming for children aged 5-9 with an engaging twist: “Through playful activities like navigating mazes and utilizing educational gadgets, we’ll introduce fundamental coding concepts.”
an event description notes
.
10-11 A.M. and 2-3 P.M. at Columbia Public Library.
5: Stephens Lake Park Outdoor Theater Music Festival Series
Join us for some fresh musical compositions in an expansive natural environment.
6:30 PM at the park.
https://www.como.gov/parks-and-recreation/special-events/
7-8: Art at the Park
Bring your entire clan to Stephens Lake Park for an unforgettable weekend experiencing one of Columbia’s premier summertime events: a two-day artisan fair showcasing exquisite and practical items crafted by local and distant artists.
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays.
https://columbiaartleague.org/artinthepark/home
10: Doggy Drill Team:
The Dogschooling Pet Drill Team led by Ann Gafke will present an incredibly entertaining performance.
6-7 PM at Columbia Public Library.
11 and 28: Is Your Child Meeting Their Developmental Milestones?
Parents with children aged between two months and five years can take advantage of this complimentary assessment provided by the Boone County Early Childhood Coalition.
10 a.m.-noon at the Columbia Public Library.
12: KidSight vision screening:
This quick, complimentary vision test is designed for children older than six months.
9:30-11:30 AM at Columbia Public Library.
13: Children at the Kid’s Table:
Is your child between the ages of 8-12 expressing an interest in Dungeons and Dragons or comparable role-playing games? Join us to discover more and throw the dice.
From 2 to 4 PM at Columbia Public Library.
13: Films Under the Stars:
Part of this recurring free event, enjoy watching “The Addams Family” as the day turns into night.
8:45 PM at Cosmo Park.
https://www.como.gov/parks-and-recreation/special-events/
14: “The Sandlot”:
Bring a fresh audience into the world of Smalls, Benny “the Jet” Rodriguez, and experience the thrills and spills of 1960s sandlot baseball in this beloved family film.
11 AM at Ragtag Cinema.
14: Shredfest:
Relish this tribute to Go Skateboarding Day whether you join as a skater or watch from the sidelines.
1 PM at Cosmo Park.
https://www.como.gov/parks-and-recreation/special-events/
14: Bags ‘n’ Wags Festival:
This animal-focused event includes adoption options, competitions, booths, and various activities; it supports several animal-welfare groups in Columbia.
4 PM at Cherry Hill Square.
16: Resource Table for Parents as Teachers Program:
Find out more information regarding this initiative provided by Columbia Public Schools.
10 a.m.-noon at the Columbia Public Library.
18:
Juneteenth Jamboree
:
Part of the city’s ongoing monthly Family Fun Fest series, discover more about Juneteenth via artistic and interactive experiences.
6 p.m. at Douglas Park.
https://www.como.gov/parks-and-recreation/special-events/
20 and 21: Creatures Among Us:
Children’s performer Mr. Symon will lead an “interactive music show centered around animals, packed with physical activities, group singing, and fun facts about creatures that will captivate spectators of all ages,” according to the library announcement.
On June 20 at 4 p.m., and on June 21 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., events will take place at the Columbia Public Library.
21: Make Music Day:
Spread throughout the nation and globally, Columbia engages annually in vibrant musical festivities to discover and enjoy around town.
All day.
Find listings at
21: Butterfly Festival:
Experience exhibitions, pollinator environments, and gardens along with food trucks and artisanal activities at this eighth yearly celebration.
From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Jefferson Farm Extension and Education Center
.
23: DIY Bookmarks:
At this specially designed sensory-friendly event, come together with your family to create your very own bookmarks.
5:30 PM at the Columbia Public Library.
24: An Optical Illusion
Children who are 7 years old and above can discover how to create their very own optical illusions.
At 2 p.m., meet at the Columbia Public Library.
July
10: Stephens Lake Park Outdoor Theater Music Events
Listen to the grand, vibrant performances of the Columbia Community Band.
7 p.m.
11: Films Under the Stars:
“The Bee Movie” will be shown as part of this installment of the series.
8:45 PM at Cosmo Park.
12: Miniature Splatter Ninja Hurdle Race
: Embrace messiness—and perhaps become a bit more healthy—at this event designed for children aged 4-15 across three different age categories.
8:30 a.m. at Gans Creek Recreation Area.
https://www.como.gov/parks-and-recreation/special-events/
16: What’s Cooking?
Take pleasure in discovering methods to maintain wellness at this month’s Family Fun Fest.
6 PM at Twin Lakes Recreation Area.
18-20: “Grease”:
TRYPSC Children’s Theatre is presenting their newest production, a version of the well-loved musical. The troupe has rated this performance as PG-13.
At 7 p.m. on July 18, as well as 2 and 7 p.m. on July 19, and again at 2 p.m. on July 20, events will take place at the Launer Auditorium of Columbia College.
https://www.trypskids.com/shows
20: Outdoor Piano Performance in the Park:
Savor live tunes as a group at this evening gathering.
3 PM at Douglass Park.
https://www.como.gov/parks-and-recreation/special-events/
20: Compass Music Camp Performance Showcase:
Join us in cheering for your friends and fellow participants who dedicated a portion of their summer to create original tunes at camp.
5:30 PM at The Blue Note.
August
3: Relaxing with the Blues
The concert showcases “local and regional artists in a mini-festival setting,” along with kid-friendly activities.
4 PM at Douglass Park.
8: Films Under the Stars:
“The Lego Movie” is being shown as part of the free film series.
8:30 PM at Cosmo Park.
16: Railway Exhibition and Public Tour:
Join us for an exciting display of action-packed model trains at this event organized by the Central Missouri Chapter of the Train Collectors Association and Columbia’s Parks and Recreation department.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., visit the Rock Quarry Park House located at 2002 Grindstone Parkway.
20: What Person Do I Aspire to Become?
August’s Family Fun Fest centers on showcasing various career paths and opportunities for children as they look ahead to their future.
6 PM at Cosmo Park.
Aarik Danielsen serves as the features and culture editor for the Tribune. You can reach him at adanielsen@columbiatribune.com.
He’s on Twitter/X @aarikdanielsen.
The article was initially published on the Columbia Daily Tribune:
Columbia summer parent’s guide: Kid-safe activities, outdoor enjoyment, and additional options
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