The kids are out of school and the hot weather is here. Now what?

Well, we North Texans have access to a variety of fun summer activities that will make the next few months memorable. Here are a few activities to add to your calendar. If you have other ideas for local families, leave them in the comment section! 

1. Volunteer with a charitable organization. Dallas alone is home to hundreds of non-profits that could use a little extra help. Do some research to determine what charities near you are looking for some additional helping hands over the summer break. Whether you want to play with abandoned pups or plant trees in local gardens, there's an organization that suits your style. Side note: if you know of any charitable organizations that are looking for summer volunteers, feel free to submit to BubbleLife about their needs so that others are aware. 

2. Buy fresh produce and flowers at a local farmers market. There are dozens of farmers markets scattered throughout the area, many of which are open on weekends in the summer. Look into the Historic McKinney Farmers Market, the Farmers Branch Market, or the Dallas Farmers Market, for starters. There are also ones located in Coppell and Garland. Don't forget to pick up some fresh fruits that are in their prime during the summer. 

3. Take the fam to a North Texas waterpark. What better way is there to escape the heat than with some slippery water slides and exciting wave pools? Check out this list of local waterparks, then pack up your beach bag and head out for a day of fun in the sun. 

4. Catch an outdoor concert. Whether you're a country fan or an avid hip-hop listener, there's a musical performance in Dallas that's perfect for you. Try to snag tickets at an outdoor venue to really soak in the summer air. If you don't want to shell out the big bucks for a popular concert, consider checking out the various outdoor musical performances at Watters Creek in Allen. The whole family is welcome!   

5. Visit a drive-in movie theater. Your little ones (and older kids) will get a real kick out of watching a film on the big screen from the back of their car. The Coyote Drive-in Theaters, located in Fort Worth and Lewisville, will be showing Incredibles 2 and other family-friendly movies, as well as newer adult films like Deadpool 2 and Ocean's 8. Be sure to grab your tickets in advance and arrive with plenty of time to set up. Oh, and don't forget the bug spray because mosquitos like to attend the movies, too. 

6. Check out the Dallas Zoo after dinner. Let's be real: visiting the zoo when it's a blistering 100 degrees outside isn't fun for anyone, especially families with small kids. That's why the Dallas Zoo is giving visitors the chance to view animals once it's a little bit cooler outside. The Safari Night Concert Series allows you to buy tickets in advance and wander around after usual closing hours. Plus, you'll get to experience a musical performance, food trucks, wildlife encounters, and more, all with the one ticket. Buy your tickets today, before all of the nights sell out. 

7. See dinosaur fossils and scientific displays at the Perot Museum. If you still haven't made your way to the coolest nature and science museum in Dallas, make plans to visit the Perot ASAP. The whole family will have a blast spending the day with ancient bones, interactive exhibits, and breathtaking displays. Tickets are a bit pricey, but the expense is well worth the fun summer experience. 

8. Join a local summer reading club. Many libraries, including the ones in Allen, Dallas, Wylie, Arlington, and more, are hosting summer reading programs. Sign up and set reading goals for you and your family, then return to the library time and time again for new reads. After all, it's a free and educational activity. 

9. Take in the view from the top of Reunion Tower. This landmark observation deck is a defining part of the Dallas skyline, but what's even more impressive is the view from the top. Purchase tickets to ride the elevator up and explore the 360-degree city views. After all, how can you call yourself a local if you've never seen Dallas from a bird's-eye view? 

10. Buy tickets to a show at the Dallas Children's Theater. From June 15 through July 8, you and your family can catch a showing of How I Became a Pirate, a national touring production that's full of swashbuckling and adventure. Tickets are available online now!