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Summer Fun In Garner: Kid-Friendly Adventures Close to Home

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School’s out and summer is in full swing—and if you’re wondering how to keep the kids entertained (without driving too far), we’ve got you covered. Garner is full of exciting, enriching, and affordable ways to make this summer memorable. Best of all, these activities support our incredible Chamber members and community partners!

 

Sign Up for Summer Camps

Whether your kids love performing arts, science, sports, or outdoor adventure, there’s a camp for every interest right here in Garner:

Rush Hour Karting Re-Grand Opening

Get ready for high-speed thrills! Rush Hour Karting is unveiling its newly renovated Garner location in July, featuring a new 2-story track, an updated restaurant and bar, improved axe-throwing, cool arcade games, and more! It’s the ultimate indoor adventure spot for families and a perfect way to beat the heat.

Learn more at rushhourkarting.com/garner

 

The Hot Spot Studio

For a creative, hands-on experience, head to The Hot Spot Studio. Kids can paint pottery, make candles, and explore new artistic mediums in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Camps, parties, and walk-in activities available all summer.

Explore what’s happening at thehotspotstudios.com

Taken at The Hot Spot Studio in Garner.
Taken at The Hot Spot Studio in Garner.

Garner Independence Day Celebration

Garner’s most beloved tradition is back! The Independence Day Celebration happens each year on July 3 and includes food trucks, live music, a kids’ zone, and a stunning fireworks show set to music from the North Carolina Symphony. Best of all—it’s completely free and full of small-town charm.

Follow this link for more information.

Groovin’ in Garner Concert Series

Enjoy live music under the stars during Groovin’ in Garner, the downtown concert series that brings families and neighbors together for an evening of fun. Bring lawn chairs, grab dinner from local vendors, and dance the night away.

Check out all of Downtown Garner's events here.

Friday Family Flicks

Kick off summer movie nights with a free outdoor showing of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 at Garner Recreation Center on June 13 from 7:45–10:45 PM. Enjoy games and free activities starting one hour before the movie, plus concessions available for purchase. Don’t forget your lawn chairs and blankets!

See the full schedule here.

Downtown Bird Bash – July 26, 10 AM–2 PM

This family-friendly celebration of birds, creativity, and young entrepreneurs is a must-attend event! The Downtown Bird Bash features:

  • A Youth Birdhouse Competition hosted by the Garner Area Historical Society—kids ages 8–18 can design and enter birdhouses with a historical twist for cash prizes. Details available here

  • Nail-less birdhouse building and painting for kids ages 6–8 (sign up through the museum).

  • A bustling Children’s Entrepreneur Market with 40+ youth vendors selling handmade wares inside and outside of the Garner Recreation Center.

  • Support from Audubon North Carolina and special bird-themed offerings from Downtown Garner businesses, including food, drinks, and vendors.

This event is co-hosted by the Garner Area Historical Society, Downtown Garner Association, and the Children’s Entrepreneur Market.

Taken near the Nature Center at White Deer Park.
Taken near the Nature Center at White Deer Park.

Explore Garner’s Beautiful Parks

Don’t forget the simple joy of spending time outdoors! Garner is home to some truly beautiful parks, perfect for picnics, playdates, and nature walks:

  • White Deer Park

  • Lake Benson Park

  • South Garner Park

  • Garner Recreational Park

  • Centennial Park
    ...and more!

Find updated schedules for summer programs and events at:
garnernc.gov/parks-recreation

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From creative camps and outdoor concerts to adrenaline-pumping karting and community celebrations, there’s no shortage of things to do with kids in Garner this summer. Whether you’re looking for educational enrichment, physical activity, or just good old-fashioned fun, it’s all right here in our hometown.

Here’s to a summer full of adventure—right in your own backyard!

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