Summer is in full swing, and July is one of the best months to explore Sacramento and surrounding communities. From Independence Day celebrations to farmers' markets, outdoor concerts, and riverside activities, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season without stretching your budget.
Here is your week-by-week guide to July, focused on free and low-cost ways to get out and enjoy Northern California.
Week 1: July 3–5
Celebrate Independence Day Without Overspending
Kick off the month with one of the most festive weekends of the year, filled with community events and free entertainment.
Top picks:
- Rancho Cordova Fourth of July Celebration (Rancho Cordova)
- Old Sacramento Waterfront July Events (Sacramento)
- Folsom Pro Rodeo (Folsom) (July 2–4)
Financial tip:
Bring your own snacks, drinks, and blankets to free events to avoid higher festival food and seating costs.
Week 2: July 10–12
Markets, Music and Easy Weekend Plans
After the holiday weekend, slow things down with local markets and simple outdoor activities.
Top Picks:
Ideas:
Financial tip:
Pair free activities like farmers markets with occasional paid outings to keep your overall spending balanced.
Week 3: July 17–19
Explore Local Favorites with Sports and Summer Events
This is a great weekend to mix classic Sacramento activities with a stadium experience.
Ideas:
- Old Sacramento Waterfront Activities (Sacramento)
- Farmers markets throughout the region (Sacramento area)
Featured outing:
Financial tip:
Set a spending limit before heading to events like the State Fair to help manage costs on tickets, food, and extras.
Week 4: July 24–26
Free Music, Community Events and River Cats Baseball
Late July is ideal for enjoying outdoor music while staying active locally.
Ideas:
- Auburn Summer Concert Series (Auburn)
- Colfax Summer Concert Series (Colfax)
- Parks and splash pads across the region (Sacramento area)
Add a local game night:
-
Sacramento River Cats vs. Oklahoma City Comets (West Sacramento) (July 21–26)
A full week of home games leading into the weekend, with multiple opportunities to catch an evening game. SAFE members can receive a 20% discount on River Cats tickets. See details below.
Financial tip:
Take advantage of discounts and promotions, like SAFE member ticket offers, to make paid events more affordable.
Week 5: July 31 – August 2
End the Month Outdoors
Close out July with simple outdoor activities that highlight the region’s natural beauty.
Ideas:
- American River Parkway (Sacramento) or Lake Natoma (Folsom)
- Auburn trails or Old Town Auburn (Auburn)
Game-day option:
-
Athletics vs. Boston Red Sox (West Sacramento)
A high-profile home series at Sutter Health Park that's expected to draw strong crowds. SAFE members can receive a 15% discount on A's tickets. See below for details.
Financial tip:
Take time to review your budget and adjust your plans as needed for the month ahead.
Take Advantage of Your SAFE Member Benefit
This summer is also a great time to take advantage of SAFE Credit Union's partnerships with the A's and River Cats.
- Discounts are available through the SAFE Mobile App and Online Banking under Member Perks
- Stop by SAFE's booth during Sacramento Saturday A's games to say hello and pick up SAFE swag
With a mix of free events, outdoor activities, and exclusive member perks, it's easy to make the most of summer while keeping your budget in mind.
