The weekend is almost here. What are your plans? Here is a snapshot of a few free events and activities to enjoy with your family and friends:

Cool off on the ice — Stay cool Saturday, June 23, at Summer Ice Fest sponsored by Ice at the Galleria. This special summer celebration will feature free fun on the ice, games, prizes, giveaways, and lessons for kids ages six to 13. Every hour, skating staff will give free 15-minute Learn-to-Skate classes as well as a free 15-minute introductory hockey class at 12:30 pm. Don’t miss seeing Chillsworth, the beloved penguin mascot having fun with folks on and off the ice. Summer Ice Fest is from noon to 5 pm at Galleria Mall, near Westheimer and 610.

Catch a movie outdoors — Discovery Green features Date Night Movies Saturday, June 23, with Dirty Dancing, with an intimate setting on the Grace Event Lawn near The Grove. The movie kicks off outdoors at 8 pm at 1500 McKinney. It’s another week of Friday Night Films, sponsored by Whole Foods Market (Montrose) and Alamo Drafthouse, at 8 pm. The free flick June 22 is Ghostbusters. Whole Foods is located at 701 Waugh.

Cheer for the dogs — DockDogs returns to Houston Friday, June 22, for a three-day competition measuring leaps and bounds. The fun kicks off at 10 am each day with finals on Sunday beginning at 4:30 pm. Get your pooch ready for the Haute Dogs Canine Costume contest Saturday at 3 pm and the Dog-Gone Talented contest Sunday at 3 pm. DockDogs is located at Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney.

Engage in classical music – The Houston Symphony’s free community concerts continue at various locations throughout Houston. Friday and Saturday, June 22-23, the Houston Symphony continues its Free Summer Symphony Nights at Miller Outdoor Theatre. Performances are at 8:30 pm. Free reserved seat tickets are available on performance day from 10:30 am – 1 pm at Miller Outdoor Theater box office.

Build a Madagascar 3 car — Lowe’s Build & Grow is kicking off a partnership with DreamWorks for movie-themed fun. This weekend (June 23 at 10 am and June 24 at 2 pm), kids can build a Madagascar 3 Luxury Assault Vehicle. RSVP to reserve your spot. July events will feature Kung Fu Pand-related items to build.

Love a parade — The Pride Festival and Parade is June 23, beginning at 1 pm, celebrating the LGBT community. This free festival lasts till 7 pm with a variety of festival performances. The Pride Parade kicks off at 8:15 pm this year and runs along Westheimer between Dunlavy and Montrose.

Sing on the Green — Grammy diva Thelma Houston headlines Rainbow on the Green, Friday, June 22, a free concert celebrating LGBT dancers, singers, and musicians in Houston. The event kicks off at 8 pm at 1500 McKinney.

Enjoy summer tunes in Pearland and The Woodlands — Folks south of Houston can hit Summerfest each Friday night in June. Pearland’s free weekly concert begins at 7 pm at Southdown Park, 2150 Countryplace Parkway. This week’s features Hamilton Loomis with rock, blues and soul. Folks north of Houston can enjoy Waterway Nights each Saturday through June 30 from 6 pm – 8 pm.  This week’s musical performer features Reflex. Enjoy strolling entertainers including jugglers, face painters, and more! Waterway Square District is located in The Woodlands.