Summer Is Here!

School is out and summer is here! If you’re looking for fun and affordable things to do for the family, this is the perfect place to find them. There is so much going on this summer around Camp Pendleton, and to make things even better, everything’s free or discounted for military personnel and their dependents. First and for most, I would like to remind everyone in advance about some upcoming events for June and July! 

The main event I’m looking forward to this summer is the Ken Grody 4th of July Beach Bash that is held every year on Camp Pendleton’s Del Mar Beach! I’m so excited to finally go this year! Last year I had to work at one of the food vendors and I watched everyone have a great time, but me. MCCSCP has yet to update their website on specifics, but I do know there will be giveaways, music, great food and beer, and of course FIREWORKS! There will be so many fun things going on, and to make it even better, it’s free!

Right now MCCSCP is collecting pictures for the “Tribute to Heroes” video that they will play during the night. If you interested in sending in your pictures of deployments or homecomings, e-mail your photos to photos@mccscp.com. When I know more details about this event I’ll include it in another blog and keep you updated! For right now mark your calendars and plan on enjoying a great day at the beach! 

What’s going on right now are the world famous Camp Pendleton Mud Run! These mud runs look like so much fun! It’s a little late to sign up to run, but you can still go watch the muddy runners for free and enjoy some activities while you’re down there. They began on June 4th and 5th and will continue on Saturday the 11th and then the ASYMCA Mud Run will be on Saturday the 18th. Each run is from 9am-3pm at Lake O’Neil. They will have a rock climbing wall, DJ, military displays, games, food vendors, and a live band, Austin Law, playing on the 11th. It would be a great idea to come down On June 18th when the  Gary Sinise & Lieutenant Dan Band will be playing! Also, comedian Dana Carvey will be performing! Bring your family down to Lake O’Neil and enjoy some time at the park and check out some awesome performers! For more information on the mud runs call 760-725-5496. 

There are a few food distributions going on if you’re looking for some free groceries to help out you and your family. The first one will be held on Tuesday June 7th at 12:30pm at the Abby Reinke Community Center. Another will be held on Tuesday June 14th at 11:30am at the Stuart Mesa Community Center. It’s best to arrive early because lines can get really long and don’t forget to bring your military I.D. I’ve been to one of these distributions before and they usually have a great selection of fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meats, and breads. It’s a great way to help out local military families! They seem to be going on weekly so I’ll keep everyone updated on dates and times of future distributions. If you would like more information or would like to volunteer you may call the Stuart Mesa Community Center at 760-725-9717, or the Abby Reinke Community Center at 760-763-0649. 

Lastly, who doesn’t love free hotdogs?! Wednesday June 15th there will be free hotdogs outside the Country Store on Mainside at 11:30am. If you’re in the area or have nothing to do for lunch check it out!

There is a lot going on this summer and I plan on being your "one-stop-shop" where you can find all the best events and deals out there.  Right now I’m still looking for more details about the upcoming Del Mar Fair and special discounts and free entries to several parks. Stay tuned for next week! If you have any ideas or know of any events or free distributions, let me know and e-mail me at katlynness@gmail.com.

Mark your Calendars!

June

7th-Abby Reinke Food Distribution 12:30pm

11th-Mud Run Lake O’Neil 9am-3pm

14th-Stuart Mesa Community Center Food Distribution 11:30am

15th-Free Hot Dogs Country Store Mainside 11:30am

18th-Mud Run Lake O’Neil 9am-3pm (Gary Sinise & LT Dan Band and Dana Carvey)

July

4th-Ken Grody Beach Bash!