Lawrence, Kansas is a home that welcomes all. Whether you are a student coming from across multiple states to cheer on the Jayhawks or you wandered into our unique town and decided to stay because of our quirky downtown and free spirit lifestyle, Lawrence has become a place to call home for many.

The hot season of summer is approaching, meaning no more schoolwork and time to let go of the year’s stress. Lawrence has many fun and unique activities to keep yourself entertained so you can have a summer packed with memories.

1. Free State Festival

The Free State Festival is a week-long event celebrating art, ideas, film, and music. All week long, there are different events to attend, such as The Free State Festival Beer Dinner, a live performance from Public Enemy, Langston Hughes Unfurled Part 1 and 2 exhibit, KU Student Films, and the Midwest Playwriting Competition Staged Reading. This year the festival will be from June 20-25.

2. Clinton Lake

The warm weather is here, so enjoy the outdoors and get a tan at Clinton Lake. Go out to the marina and enjoy the boat docks and on-site restaurant, or be adventurous and find your own private go-to spot on the lake.

3. The Granada

The Granada is a great place to go for a fun concert for a low price. This summer they have a many bands coming to Lawrence, including Motion City Soundtrack and Pierce the Veil.

4. Dinner and a Movie

Everyone loves the classic dinner and a movie combination, and downtown Lawrence has provided such thing for you. Dinner and a Movie has three dates set (June 17, July 8, August 12) for you to enjoy food from local vendors, live entertainment, and a free movie!

5. Explore

Lawrence is a town with many undercover treasures. Spend the summer here finding your new favorite coffee shop, go inside one of the many antique shops downtown, and see what you can find, or try a new restaurant once a week, because I promise you won’t eat at them all!