Local Activities

  • Summer Activities: Swimming Pool Set Up & Rules

    Karlie and Brina "helping" set up the swimming pool (wonder if they can even see out of their glasses)!

    We recently set up our swimming pool for the girls.  A couple years ago we bought the pool on clearance at the end of season and it has been a wonderful investment.  The girls, friends and family have enjoyed swimming in the pool and it has held up really well.  When Daddy was ready to set up the pool this year the girls were eager to help!  Once it was starting to fill they dove in glasses and all (see picture above)!

    We enjoy finding inexpensive yet fun summer activities that our girls can do together.  The pool has proven to be a wonderful source of entertainment for our girls who love to be outside on the hot summer days.  One of our concerns with having a pool is safety.  Although our pool is not huge it is very important we go over the rules every summer.  Here are our Pool Rules:

    • No Swimming without Permission of a Parent (or Responsible Adult)
    • No Swimming Unless an Adult is Physically Outside with the Children
    • When People Are Not in the Pool the Tarp Must Be On Top of the Pool at All Times
    • No Children are Allowed on the Colored Mats Around the Pool (unless they are getting into the pool with an adult present)
    • No Children are Allowed to Remove the Tarp from the Pool (they can however, assist an adult in removing the tarp)
    • No Children can Touch the Pool without an Adult Present (touching the pool can result in falling into the pool which can be dangerous)
    • All Children Must Go Potty Prior to Entering the Pool (prevents the accidents or short swim time due to  potty breaks)
    • Feet Must Be Rinsed in the Bucket Prior to Entering the Pool (helps keep down the debris)
    • No Jumping Into the Pool (when kids jump into the pool they can land on another kid or pin a kid down, this prevents these types of accidents)
    • No Leaning Over the Edge of the Pool (a kid could fall in or out of the pool)
    • No Excessive Splashing (the adult in attendance has to use judgment on this one, splashing is normal, however if you have younger and older children in the pool at the same time it may need to be monitored more closely to make sure all kids are safe and having a good time)
    • When a Pool Toy is Thrown or Falls Out of the Pool it will be Picked up by the Adult Present 1 Time (if it is thrown out a second time it can be claimed after the children get out of the pool, this helps cut down on the opps it went out again and the adult spending the next 2 hours chasing and cleaning off pool toys).
    • Once Out of the Pool A Child Cannot Re-enter for At Least An Hour (this prevents the children from getting in and out all the time which increases the risk of extra debris, emptying the pool, falling into the pool, and saves the energy for the adult since the majority of the children will require help getting in and out)

    I realize the rules can seem a little strict but over the last couple of summers we have realize the importance of having rules when it comes to the pool.  The pool is something we want to enjoy but it can quickly become dangerous if the kids don’t respect the rules.  Jake and I have had fun swimming with the girls in the pool too and have to respect the rules as well.

    Some of these rules are more “flexible” then others.  Rules such as swimming without permission or if an adult is not present will result in being band from the pool for several days.  It is not worth the risk and the kids need to know the seriousness of a pool.  We try to remind the girls of the pool rules often especially before having friends over.  Do you have any specific pool rules that I haven’t covered?

  • Family Outings: Family of 4 “Playcation” Package – Greenville Drive, Children’s Museum, Camelot Cinemas, Hotdogs & Drinks ($40)

    The Greenville Drive is offering a “Playcation” Package this week on Tuesday, May 31, 2011.  The package is $40 for a Family of 4 which includes:

    • 4 Tickets to the Greenville Drive’s Game on May 31, 2011
    • 4 Hot Dogs
    • 4 Soft Drinks
    • 4 passes to the Children’s Museum of the Upstate
    • 4 passes to the Camelot Cinemas

    You can order you “Playcation” Package by going by the Fluor Field Box Office or calling them at 864-240-4528 (there is an additional $5 charge for ordering by phone).  For more information please go to the Greenville Drive website.

  • Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive with United States Postal Services (Sat, May 14)

    You can help food for families in your local community who are in need of food.  All you have to do is leave a bag of food at your mailbox and it will be delivered to your local food bank. The Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is another great opportunity that allows you to demonstrate to your kids what it looks like to share with others and be generous, better yet have them pick out their favorite non-perishable items to put in a bag and have them help you carry it to the mailbox.

    Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Details:

    • Date: Saturday, May 14, 2001
    • What: Bag of Non-Perishable Food Items (Can and Boxed Goods)
    • How: Leave your bag at the mailbox for pickup by your mail carrier
    • Where Does it Go? The USPS will deliver your Food Items to your local Food Bank to benefit people in your community
    • More Information: Stamp Out Hunger

    We are blessed as a family.  Yes we have a family budget, use coupons, and shop clearance racks or buy used items but by being smart with our money it allows us the opportunity to share what we have with others.  The girls love participating in this event and I am thankful they enjoy giving to those within our community.

  • Family Outings: FREE Downtown Greenville Activities (Weekly)

    We live in an area with a beautiful downtown and plenty of fun free family activities.  Below are some weekly free family activities you can enjoy.

    Free Wednesday Night Activity

    Last week I introduced the Moonlight Movie series they are doing downtown Greenville throughout the month of May. If you are looking for a fun family activity tonight and you live near Greenville, SC?  The “Moonlight Movies” Series is at The Peace Center Amphitheater on Wednesday nights sponsored by Fidelity Investments!

    Event Details:
    • When – 8:00 PM (at sundown) on Wednesday, May 11, 2011
    • Where – The Peace Center Amphitheater & Wyche Pavilion (300 North Main St., Greenville, SC 29601)
    • What’s Showing – “Batman”
    • Cost – FREE
    • Who – All Ages / Family Friendly Activity (movies will be rated G or PG or family friendly Not Rated)
    • Food / Drink – Bring Your Own Beverage and Food or you can buy a wristband
    • What to Bring – Your Family, Lawn Chairs, Blanket, Picnic, Drinks, and Snacks
    • For More Information – Greenville Moonlight Movies / Phone:  864-467-5741

    If you cannot make it out to the movie tonight there will be more “Moonlight Movies” events coming!

    Future “Moonlight Movies”:

    • Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at 8:00 PM – “Winchester”
    • Wednesday, May 25, 2011 at 8:00 PM – Viewer’s Choice

    Even if you do not live in the Greenville area I encourage you to check out events in your local city.  Many towns offer free events that your family can enjoy.

    Free Wednesday Night Activity

     

    Bring your family and a picnic while listening to music on the Reedy River on Wednesday nights starting June 1st through August 31, 2011.

    Event Details:
    • When – 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM starting Wednesday, June 1st to August 31st
    • Where – The Peace Center Amphitheater (300 North Main St., Greenville, SC 29601)
    • What Type of Music – A Variety (Jazz, Country, Patriotic, Rock & Roll, Blues, Reggae)
    • Cost – FREE
    • Who – All Ages / Family Friendly Activity
    • Food / Drink – Bring Your Own Beverage and Food
    • What to Bring – Your Family, Lawn Chairs, Blanket, Picnic, Drinks, and Snacks
    • For More Information – about the event or the musicians go to Reedy River Concerts / Phone:  864-467-5741

    Free Thursday Night Activity

    On Thursday nights starting in March through August Greenville has Downtown Alive featuring live music.
    Event Details:
    • When – starting Thursday, March 17 to August 25
    • Where – Downtown Main Street
    • What Type of Music – A Variety (Rock & Roll, Blues, Funk and Cover Bands) Local, Regional and National Bands
    • Cost – FREE
    • Who – All Ages / Family Friendly Activity
    • Food / Drink – Bring Your Own Beverage and Food or Buy a Wrist Band
    • What to Bring – Your Family, Lawn Chairs, Blanket, Picnic, Drinks, and Snacks
    • For More Information – about the event or the musicians go to Downtown Alive / Phone:  864-467-5741

    Free Friday Night Activity

    Bring your family to Downtown Greenville for Main Street Fridays featuring music, children’s activities and other special activities throughout the season.  Main Street Fridays start in March and goes through September.  Enjoy a meal at one of Greenville’s downtown restaurants, take a walk and enjoy the entertainment.

    Event Details:
    • When – 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM starting Friday, March 18 to September 30, 2011
    • Where – Downtown Main Street
    • What Type of Music – A Variety (Jazz, Blues, Oldies, and Soul)
    • Cost – FREE
    • Who – All Ages / Family Friendly Activity
    • Food / Drink – Bring Your Own Beverage and Food or Buy a Wrist Band
    • What to Bring – Your Family
    • For More Information – about the event or the musicians go to Main Street Fridays / Phone:  864-467-5741

     

    Free Week Day & Weekend Activity

    Shakespeare in the Park

    Upstate Shakespeare Festival Events

    Bring your family and a picnic to Shakespeare in the Park at The Carolina First Amphitheater starting in May.  The plays are presented by Warehouse Theatre and Greenville City Parks & Recreation.

    May through August
    The Carolina First Amphitheater in Falls Park
    The Upstate Shakespeare Festival (USF) celebrates its eleventh summer of presenting free productions of Shakespeare’s classic plays in beautiful Falls Park. These imaginative stagings exhibit the best of regional talent in productions that entertain the entire family. Bring a picnic, blankets, and lawn chairs to enjoy exciting theater under the stars. USF is presented by the Warehouse Theatre and Greenville City Parks and Recreation

    Event Details:
    • When – 7:00 PM Thursday – Sunday
    • Where – Falls Park at The Carolina First Amphitheater
    • What Type Plays – Shakespeare Plays
    • Cost – FREE
    • Who – All Ages / Family Friendly Activity
    • Food / Drink – Bring Your Own Beverage and Food
    • What to Bring – Your Family, a Picnic,  Lawn Chair, Food, Drinks & Snacks
    • For More Information – about the event or the musicians go to Upstate Shakespeare Festivals / Phone:  864-467-5741

    Upcoming Events:

    • May 26 – 29: “The Taming of the Shrew” by William Shakespeare directed by John Fagan
    • June 2 – 5: “The Taming of the Shrew” by William Shakespeare directed by John Fagan
    • June 9 – 12: “The Taming of the Shrew” by William Shakespeare directed by John Fagan
    • June 16, 18, 19: “The Taming of the Shrew” by William Shakespeare directed by John Fagan (NOTE: no performance on June 17th)
    • July 14 – 17: “Cymbeline” by William Shakespeare directed by John Fagan
    • July 21 – 24: “Cymbeline” by William Shakespeare directed by John Fagan
    • July 28 – 31: “Cymbeline” by William Shakespeare directed by John Fagan
    • August 4 – 7: “Cymbeline” by William Shakespeare directed by John Fagan

    Downtown Greenville has a lot of other great activities going on throughout the week and weekend.  If you are looking for a fresh produce and homemade goods you should check out their Saturday Farmers Market.

  • Fresh & Healthy: Downtown Farmer’s Market (Saturdays) Fresh Produce & More!

    It is the beginning of produce harvest for a lot of local farmers which means the Farmer’s Market is opening.  Many local communities will host Downtown Farmer’s Markets to help connect the farmers with the local people who want to purchase fresh fruits and veggies for their family.

    Families in the Greenville area who are looking for some fresh in-season vegetables, fruit, local honey, gourmet foods, seafood, fresh flowers, diary products, coffee, nuts, baked goods, handmade crafts, woodworking and a wide variety of other goodies from more than 50 vendors can come to downtown Greenville  on Saturday mornings starting May 7th through October 29th.

    Downtown Greenville Farmer’s Market Details:
    • What / Where – Downtown Greenville’s Saturday Market (Main Street at McBee Avenue, Greenville, SC 29601 )
    • When – Saturdays from 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM ( May 7 to October 29)
    • Cost – Free Admission (the only cost is for the items you purchase from the local farmers / vendors)
    • For More Information / Activities – Saturday Market Live / 864-467-4494

    Downtown Greenville has music and special events during the Saturday Farmer’s Market.  Please go to their events section for more information on upcoming musicians, cooking demonstrations, and special events.

    Easley just started a Downtown Farmer’s Market a few years ago.  It is smaller than the one in Downtown Greenville but for a small community it has a lot of amazing produce to offer.  Each year it has grown bigger with more vendors offering their fresh produce and goods to the local community.

    Downtown Easley Farmer’s Market Details:

    • What / Where – Downtown Easley Farmer’s Market (205 North 1st Street, Easley, SC 29640)
    • When – Saturdays from 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (April 9th to End of Season)
    • Cost – Free Admission (the only cost is for the items you purchase from the local farmers / vendors)
    • For More Information / Activities – Easley Farmers Market / 864-855-7900

    2011 Special Calendar of Events –  Easley’s Farmers Market:

    • May 7 – Smoke House &  Sparky
    • May 14 – Parent Magazine & Fun Kid Activities
    • May 21 – SunLit Moon Entertainment
    • June 11 – Parent Magazine & Fun Kid Activities
    • July 2 – 2nd Annual Pie Baking Contest & July 4th Celebration.
    • July 23 – Square Root Entertainment
    • More activities being scheduled check back often

    Photo by Natalie Maynor &  Swami Stream

  • Family Outings: “Moonlight Movies” Series starts Tonight at The Peace Center Amphitheater

    Moonlight Movies 2011
    Looking for a fun family activity tonight and you live near Greenville, SC?  The “Moonlight Movies” Series Starts TONIGHT at The Peace Center Amphitheater sponsored by Fidelity Investments!
    Event Details:
    • When – 8:00 PM (at sundown) on Wednesday, May 4, 2011
    • Where – The Peace Center Amphitheater & Wyche Pavilion (300 North Main St., Greenville, SC 29601)
    • What’s Showing – “Father of the Bride”
    • Cost – FREE
    • Who – All Ages / Family Friendly Activity (movies will be rated G or PG or family friendly Not Rated)
    • Food / Drink – Bring Your Own Beverage and Food or you can buy a wristband
    • What to Bring – Your Family, Lawn Chairs, Blanket, Picnic, Drinks, and Snacks
    • Not Allowed at the Event – No Pets / No Smoking
    • For More Information – Greenville Moonlight Movies / Phone:  864-467-5741

    If you cannot make it out to the movie tonight there will be more “Moonlight Movies” events coming!

    Future “Moonlight Movies”:

    • Wednesday, May 11, 2011 at 8:00 PM – “Batman”
    • Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at 8:00 PM – “Winchester”
    • Wednesday, May 25, 2011 at 8:00 PM – Viewer’s Choice

    Even if you do not live in the Greenville area I encourage you to check out events in your local city.  Many towns offer free events that your family can enjoy.

    Photo by Metromix Greenville