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Families Can Enjoy Free Lunches and Low-Cost Programs This Summer
Youth & Family

Families Can Enjoy Free Lunches and Low-Cost Programs This Summer

City Offers Youth Programs to Support Families

May 27, 2025

The City of Albuquerque invites families to enjoy their summer with engaging, affordable, and enriching programs for youth of all ages. From all-day programs and free meals to teen nights and family-friendly summer events, we are bringing together dozens of City departments and partners to deliver a wide variety of activities this summer.

“Whether you are looking for all-day care, outdoor adventure, or engaging summer events,” said Director Katarina Sandoval. “Let this summer be one of connection, creativity, and community, with something for every child and every family.”

Summer Highlights Include:

  • Summer Lunch - Free, nutritious meals for children ages 1–18 at parks and community centers from June through August.
  • Full-Day Programs – Over 20 community centers, two multi-generational centers, and APS locations. These low-cost or free programs offer supervised recreation, crafts, games, and more for youth ages 5–15.
    • Available YFS sites for all day programs include: Loma Linda, Heights (Teen Inclusive Recreation Site), Reynaluz Juarez.
    • Sites with small waitlists include Cesar Chavez, Dennis Chavez and Herman Sanchez, Mesa Verde, Singing Arrow, Thomas Bell and Wells Park.
  • Swim lessons, junior golf, Esperanza bicycle classes & more.
  • Explora! Camps, BioPark’s Camp BioPark, and ABQ Museum Art School.
  • Family Paint Night – June 18, 5 p.m. – 8 pm at Barelas Community Center
  • Teen Nights for youth ages 12–19. First free teen event on June 20th at Mesa Verde Community Center.

Places of Interest:

  • Free and low-cost access to community centers, splash pads, museums, libraries, open space events, and more.

“These programs are more than just a way to keep kids engaged during the summer,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “They provide youth with a safe space to grow, learn, build healthy relationships, and stay active all while easing the burden on working families.”

Visit cabq.gov/summer to explore program, check registration dates, and find locations near you.