12 Free Things To Do In Fresno This Weekend

Looking for some exciting ways to spice up your weekend without breaking the bank? If you're in Fresno, you're in luck! This city offers a plethora of free activities for all ages and interests. Whether you feel like exploring the great outdoors, immersing yourself in art and culture or indulging in some delicious local cuisine, there are many options available that won't cost you a penny. Check out our list of 12 free things to do in Fresno this weekend and get ready to have some fun!

Visit Woodward Park

Are you looking for something to do for free in Fresno this weekend? Look no further than Woodward Park.

Woodward Park, located in north Fresno, offers many activities and amenities for visitors. The park is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and admission is free.

One of the park's main attractions is its beautiful gardens. The Shinzen Friendship Garden, located within Woodward Park, is a stunning Japanese-style garden that spans five acres. Visitors can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, including koi ponds and waterfalls.

Additionally, Woodward Park has many walking and hiking trails, perfect for those who want to get some exercise and enjoy nature. The Lewis S. Eaton Trail is a 2.5 mile hike that offers beautiful views of the San Joaquin River. The San Joaquin River Parkway Trail is another popular hiking spot, offering a longer trek through the park's scenic landscape.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Woodward Park also has several sports facilities available. The park has tennis and volleyball courts, a horseshoe pit, and multiple playgrounds for children.

Finally, don't forget to bring a picnic lunch or dinner to enjoy in one of the park's many picnic areas. The park has tables and barbeque pits available, making it the perfect spot for a family gathering or a romantic picnic for two.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a great way to spend your weekend in Fresno without spending a dime, take a visit to Woodward Park. With lovely gardens, hiking and walking trails, sports facilities, and picnic areas, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful park.

Check out the art at ArtHop

If you're looking for a free way to spend your weekend in Fresno, why not check out the art scene? Every first Thursday of the month, the city hosts ArtHop, an event where art galleries, studios, and businesses open their doors to showcase local artists and their work.

ArtHop is a great opportunity to explore the vibrant and diverse art community that Fresno has to offer. With over 50 participating locations, visitors can see anything from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media pieces. There is truly something for everyone, and it's all free to explore.

One of the highlights of ArtHop is the chance to meet and talk with the artists themselves. Many of them are on hand to answer questions and discuss their work, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation of the pieces on display. This is a great opportunity for aspiring artists to get inspiration and advice from local professionals.

ArtHop isn't just for adults either. Many locations offer activities and entertainment for children, such as face painting and mini art projects. It's a great way to get kids involved in the arts and expose them to different styles and techniques.

The event takes place from 5-8 pm, giving visitors plenty of time to explore as many locations as they want. Free trolleys are also available to shuttle visitors between galleries and studios, making it easy to see as much art as possible.

So if you're looking for a fun and free way to spend your weekend in Fresno, check out ArtHop. It's a great way to support local artists, discover new art, and connect with the community.

Explore the trails at San Joaquin River Parkway

Looking for something fun and free to do in Fresno this weekend? Why not check out the San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust?

With over 15 miles of trails to explore, the parkway offers plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy the beautiful Central Valley scenery. Whether you're hiking, biking, or just taking a leisurely stroll, you're sure to find something that suits your interests.

One of the most popular trailheads is located near the River Center, which serves as a gateway to the parkway. From here, you can follow the trail down to the river, where you'll be treated to stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape.

If you're interested in learning more about the area's natural history, be sure to check out the interpretive signage along the way. These signs offer information about the flora and fauna of the area, as well as the cultural history of the river and its surrounding communities.

Another highlight of the parkway is the Lewis S. Eaton Trail, which winds through a beautiful wooded area and offers a chance to spot some of the local wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and even the occasional deer.

At the end of your visit, be sure to stop by the River Center to learn more about the parkway and its conservation efforts. You can also check out the center's exhibits and educational programs, which offer a glimpse into the diverse ecology of the region.

So if you're looking for a fun and free way to spend your weekend in Fresno, head over to the San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust. With its beautiful trails, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history, it's the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature.

Attend a concert at the Fresno City College Amphitheater

If you're looking for some free entertainment this weekend in Fresno, we suggest attending a concert at the Fresno City College Amphitheater.

Located at 1101 E. University Ave, the outdoor amphitheater is a great setting for a summer concert experience. Best of all, admission is free for most shows.

This weekend, the amphitheater will be hosting a concert featuring local musicians and bands. The lineup includes popular local indie bands like The Morning Drive and Faulknerian Folk.

The show starts at 7pm, so be sure to arrive early to snag a good seat. Don't forget to bring along some blankets and chairs for seating, as well as snacks and drinks to make the experience complete.

While you're at the amphitheater, take some time to explore the beautiful campus of Fresno City College. The college boasts a stunning Mediterranean-style architecture, and the surrounding gardens and lawns provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

So, if you're looking for a fun and free way to spend your weekend in Fresno, head on down to the Fresno City College Amphitheater and enjoy some great music and beautiful surroundings.

Go for a picnic at Roeding Park

Looking for something fun and free to do in Fresno this weekend? Look no further than Roeding Park! This beautiful park is the perfect backdrop for a day of picnicking and relaxation.

Located in the heart of Fresno, Roeding Park boasts over 100 acres of green space, including beautiful gardens, a lake, and plenty of shaded picnic spots. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book, a place to play frisbee with friends, or simply a place to enjoy the sunshine, Roeding Park has something for everyone.

One of the best ways to enjoy Roeding Park is to pack a picnic and spend the afternoon lounging in the grass. Bring a blanket, some sandwiches, and a cooler full of cold drinks, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the park. If you're feeling active, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore, or you can rent a paddle boat and cruise around the lake.

For those with kids, Roeding Park is also home to the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, which features over 190 species of animals from around the world. Admission to the zoo is not free, but it's definitely worth the price of admission for a day of family fun.

If you're looking to get out of the house and enjoy the beauty of Fresno, Roeding Park is the perfect destination. Pack a picnic, grab some friends or family, and make a day of it. With so much to see and do, you're sure to have a great time.

Watch movies under the stars at Eaton Plaza

With the weekend coming up, if you're looking for something to do for free in Fresno, look no further than Eaton Plaza's free outdoor movie series. This weekend, you'll have the opportunity to watch movies under the stars, making for a fun and unique experience.

Located in the heart of downtown Fresno, Eaton Plaza is a beautiful park that's perfect for an afternoon picnic or a relaxing evening outing. Now, with the addition of their outdoor movie series, Eaton Plaza is offering even more entertainment options for anyone who wants to enjoy a beautiful summer evening.

This weekend, the featured movie is "The Lion King," the Disney classic that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. It's a great choice for families and Disney fans alike, and the outdoor setting will only add to the movie magic.

The movie starts at 8:30pm, so be sure to bring a blanket or some chairs to make yourself comfortable. You can also bring snacks and drinks, but alcohol is not allowed in the park. If you forget any essentials, don't worry - there are plenty of nearby stores and restaurants where you can pick up whatever you need.

Whether you come with friends, family, or by yourself, watching a movie under the stars is a unique experience that you won't soon forget. And with so many great parks and outdoor spaces in Fresno, it's easy to find somewhere to continue your evening once the movie is over.

So come on down to Eaton Plaza this weekend and enjoy a free movie under the stars. It's a great way to spend a summer evening and make some lasting memories.

Tour the gardens at the Fresno State Horticulture Nursery

If you're looking for something fun and free to do in Fresno this weekend, why not take a stroll through the gardens at the Fresno State Horticulture Nursery?

Located on the northeast corner of the Fresno State campus, the horticulture nursery is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers, including fruit trees, succulents, roses, and much more. And best of all, admission is completely free!

As you walk through the gardens, you'll be treated to a sensory feast. You'll smell the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers, hear the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze, and feel the warmth of the sun on your face. It's a serene atmosphere that's perfect for a relaxing afternoon outing.

Along the way, you'll also have the opportunity to learn more about the different plants and flowers on display. Many of the specimens are labeled with informative signs that tell you everything from their scientific names to their country of origin. And if you're lucky, you might even run into one of the many horticulture students who work at the nursery and can give you even more insights into the plants you're seeing.

In addition to the gardens themselves, the horticulture nursery is also home to a small gift shop where you can purchase plants and other gardening supplies. And if you find yourself getting hungry during your visit, there are plenty of dining options on the Fresno State campus just a short walk away.

So if you're looking for a fun and free activity to do in Fresno this weekend, be sure to check out the gardens at the Fresno State Horticulture Nursery. Not only will you be surrounded by natural beauty, but you'll also have the chance to learn more about the amazing world of plants and flowers.

Enjoy a stroll at Shinzen Japanese Garden

Characteristic	Description
Name	Shinzen Friendship Garden Inc.
Type	Garden in Fresno, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 952
Address	114 W Audubon Dr, Fresno, CA 93720
Phone	(559) 478-4848
Hours	Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Sunday_easter - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Monday - Closed
Profiles

One of the best things about Fresno is that there are plenty of free activities to enjoy on the weekends. If you're looking for a relaxing way to spend your free time, taking a stroll through the Shinzen Japanese Garden is a great option.

Located within the larger Woodward Park, Shinzen Japanese Garden is a serene oasis filled with beautiful plants, trees, and water features. The garden is meticulously maintained and designed to give visitors a taste of traditional Japanese landscaping.

Some of the highlights of the garden include a koi pond filled with colorful fish, a tea house for special events, and a peaceful Zen garden where you can sit and meditate. The garden also boasts a variety of blooming trees and flowers, making it a great spot for nature lovers to take in the beauty of the changing seasons.

While admission to the garden is usually $7 for adults, you can visit for free during special events throughout the year. One of the best times to visit for free is during the annual Spring Blossom Festival, which typically takes place in early March. During this event, you can enjoy live music, Japanese cultural demonstrations, and of course, breathtaking displays of cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Another option for free admission is to visit during the "Fridays at the Garden" series, which takes place on select Friday evenings during the summer months. During these events, the garden is open late and features food trucks, live entertainment, and special activities for visitors of all ages.

No matter when you choose to visit, the Shinzen Japanese Garden is a beautiful and tranquil retreat that's perfect for a leisurely stroll. So next time you're looking for something to do in Fresno, make sure to add a visit to this stunning garden to your weekend plans.

Attend a free comedy show at Grogg's Irish Pub

Looking for a good laugh this weekend without breaking the bank? Look no further than Groggs Irish Pub, where you can attend a free comedy show in the heart of Fresno.

Located at 1225 N. Willow Ave, Groggs Irish Pub offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere perfect for enjoying a few drinks with friends while taking in some stand-up comedy. The establishment boasts a rotating lineup of local comedians, so you can expect each show to be unique and packed with new talent.

One of the best things about Groggs Irish Pub's comedy shows is, of course, the price. Every show is completely free, meaning you don't have to shell out any cash to enjoy a night of laughter. Just show up, grab a seat, and get ready to be entertained.

But don't let the lack of a cover charge fool you - the comedy at Groggs Irish Pub is top-notch. You'll be treated to shows featuring some of the funniest up-and-coming comedians in Fresno, many of whom have gone on to perform on bigger stages across the country.

So if you're looking for a fun and free way to spend your weekend in Fresno, head on over to Groggs Irish Pub for a night of comedy. Who knows - you might just discover your new favorite comedian.

Visit the Fresno Art Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	Fresno Art Museum
Type	Art museum in Fresno, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 216
Address	2233 N First St, Fresno, CA 93703
Phone	(559) 441-4221
Hours	Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - Closed Thursday - 12–5 PM Friday - 12–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM Sunday(Easter) - Closed Monday - Closed
Profiles

If you are wondering what to do and see in Fresno this weekend, why not take a trip to the Fresno Art Museum? With free admission on Sundays, it's the perfect opportunity to experience the wealth of artistic talent that Fresno has to offer.

Situated in the heart of Fresno's Cultural Arts District, the Fresno Art Museum is home to a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art. The collection includes works by local artists as well as international pieces, showcasing a wide range of styles and mediums, from paintings to sculptures and beyond.

One of the highlights of the museum is the Thomas A. Mendenhall Museum, a space dedicated to the artist whose unique and colorful paintings explore themes of identity, history, and social justice. The museum also features an outdoor sculpture garden, which is a perfect spot for a picnic or a quiet moment of reflection.

In addition to its regular exhibits, the Fresno Art Museum also hosts special events and programs throughout the year, including artist talks, art workshops, and cultural festivals. These events provide a wonderful opportunity to connect with the local art scene and to learn more about the art and culture of Fresno.

While the museum is open throughout the week, it is only on Sundays that admission is free. This means that you can take advantage of this special offer and enjoy a day of art and creativity without breaking the bank.

So whether you are an art enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and educational activity to do this weekend, be sure to visit the Fresno Art Museum. With its impressive collection and welcoming atmosphere, it is a true gem in the heart of Fresno.

Enjoy live music at ApCal Winery

If you're looking for a fun and relaxing way to spend your weekend in Fresno, look no further than ApCal Winery. Located just outside of town, this scenic winery is the perfect place to enjoy some live music, sip on local wines, and soak up the beautiful Central Valley sunshine.

Every weekend, ApCal hosts a variety of talented musicians and bands on their outdoor stage, giving visitors a chance to experience the best in local and regional live music. From country and classic rock to blues and jazz, there's always something new and exciting happening at the winery.

One of the best things about ApCal is their commitment to showcasing the best of the Fresno area. Many of the bands and musicians who perform here are local or regional acts, giving visitors a chance to connect with the vibrant music scene that makes Fresno such a special place to live and visit.

Of course, the wine is another draw to ApCal. The winery produces a variety of delicious reds, whites, rosés, and dessert wines, all made with grapes grown right in the San Joaquin Valley. Visitors can sample wines by the glass or bottle, and even take a few bottles home to enjoy later.

If you're hungry, ApCal also offers a range of delicious food options, from wood-fired pizzas to BBQ and tacos. And if you need a break from the music, you can relax in the winery's beautiful gardens or play a game of bocce ball with friends.

Best of all, ApCal is completely free to visit on weekends, though some events may have a small cover charge. So whether you're a local looking for a fun day out or a visitor to the Fresno area, be sure to add ApCal Winery to your list of must-visit destinations this weekend. With great music, delicious wine, and a beautiful setting, it's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy all that Fresno has to offer.

Attend a free yoga class at the Cultural Arts District Park

Fresno locals, if you're looking for something fun and relaxing to do this weekend, why not check out a free yoga class at the Cultural Arts District Park?

Located at 1615 Fulton St., the Cultural Arts District Park offers a serene and beautiful outdoor space where you can unwind, connect with your breath, and stretch your body. This weekend, you can join one of the free yoga classes offered by the Fresno Yoga Collaborative, a local yoga studio dedicated to making yoga accessible to everyone in the community.

The yoga classes at the Cultural Arts District Park are suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. The classes are taught by experienced yoga teachers who will guide you through a series of poses that will leave you feeling refreshed, energized, and relaxed.

Whether you're looking to start your day with some gentle stretching and mindfulness, or you want to wind down in the evening with a relaxing yoga practice, attending a free yoga class at the Cultural Arts District Park is a wonderful way to experience the benefits of yoga without spending any money.

If you're interested in attending a free yoga class at the Cultural Arts District Park this weekend, here are the details you need to know:

• The yoga classes are held every Saturday and Sunday morning from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
• The classes are free and open to the public.
• You don't need to bring any yoga equipment with you - mats, blocks, and straps are provided.
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely.
• Don't forget to bring water and sunscreen, as the classes are held outdoors.

Attending a free yoga class at the Cultural Arts District Park is a great way to connect with your body and your community, and to enjoy a relaxing outdoor experience. We hope to see you there!

Frequently asked questions