August is National Family Fun Month, so it’s time to squeeze in every bit of summer excitement your Military Family can muster before school picks up and the daily grind of school-year activities begins again.
That means plenty more barbecues, craft days, and staycations ahead, but how about venturing out to one of the many free and discounted activities available to the Military Community? We’ve rounded up the 8 best deals your family can score to spend quality time together this month.
1. MWR Events
From block parties to cook-offs to classes and more, there is plenty to keep your family occupied right in your neighborhood. Plus, the MWR office has information about other discounts and freebies specific to your area, so check them out!
2. Blue Star Museums
The program, which is a collaboration between the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and thousands of museums across the U.S., offers free museum admission for Active Duty families from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Visit their website to find participating museums in your state.
3. Waves of Honor
The free admission is good for SeaWorld® Orlando, SeaWorld® San Antonio, SeaWorld® San Diego, Busch Gardens Tampa, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Sesame Place® Langhorne, and Aquatic Orlando. Visit the Waves of Honor website to choose a park and claim your free tickets.
4. National Parks Passes
Additionally, Active Duty Military members and their dependents are eligible for the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Pass for free. The pass, which is normally $80, allows free admission for a year to the sites that charge an entrance fee.
5. A Story Before Bed
A Story Before Bed is a service that allows you to record a children’s book online with audio and video for your kids to watch again and again, and they’re giving away free subscriptions to members of the Military who are deploying or already deployed.
6. Operation: Love Reunited
The organization connects Military members who are ready to deploy, already deployed, or coming home with a local photographer for a free photography session. The photographers will also provide some free photos and albums at no charge.
7. Veteran Tickets Foundation
Individuals and organizations donate tickets to sporting events, concerts, performing arts, and family activities in all 50 states to Activity Duty, Veterans, and their families. Visit their website to see what tickets are available in your area.
8. Blue Star Theatres
The program is the result of a partnership between Blue Star Families and the Theatre Communications Group and offers free and discounted admission to over 130 theaters across the country. Visit their website to find participating theaters near you.
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