Classic Cars, Free Music, and An Enchanting Story

Summer vacation is finally here, and there’s no lack of fun to be had for the whole family.

This week, you can get out to look at the colorful vehicles at the classic car show in La Mesa, listen to calypso rhythms on the green in El Cajon and take in a youth theater performance of a family-friendly play at the Kroc Performing Arts Center.

Click on the event for all the details.

BEST BETS CLOSE TO HOME

• Where/when: Lemon Grove Branch Library, 2 p.m., Saturdays through Aug. 27.
• Why go: Consider it a mini stay-cation—a family film “from far away places,” popcorn and lots of delicious, chilly air-conditioning.
• Price: Free.

• Where/when: La Mesa Village, 5 to 8 p.m., Thursdays through August.
• Why go: For the more than 300 show cars in pristine condition, live music and plenty of fun for everyone.
• Price: Free.

• Where/when: The Water Conservation Garden at Cuyamaca College, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Why go: For a low-key afternoon, there’s not much more chill than strolling the beautiful gardens and taking in the sculptural artworks.
• Price: Free.

• Where/when: Prescott Promenade, El Cajon, 6 to 8 p.m. Fridays through September.
• Why go: To kick back on the grass and soak up some island vibes as Upstream performs Caribbean, reggae and calypso tunes.
• Price: Free.

• Where/when: C. Hook Theater at the Kroc Performing Arts Center, 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday.
• Why go: Singing! Dancing! Youth! And a really sweet story.
• Price: $10.