The city’s annual “100 Days of Summer” program kicks off Friday with a live performance from the cover band The Basix at Marina Vista Park, an event which will lay the foundation for a season full of free or low-cost summer activities here in Long Beach.

100 Days of Summer is a collaborative effort put on by City of Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine and the Long Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau to help bring affordable entertainment and activities to residents of the city. In a press release, Mayor Bob Foster said that the over 800 events included in the itinerary for 100 Days of Summer are a great way to keep your family having fun and staying local this summer.

“100 Days of Summer is your complete guide to summer fun here in Long Beach,” Foster said in the press release.

From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the city will host a variety of community events including free outdoor screenings of movies, concerts held at area parks, low-cost pet immunizations and day camps, where for fees starting at around $70 a week, kids age 5-12 can be watched over and participate in activities when their parents are working.

The Basix are considered one of the best cover bands in Southern California and perform a set list that appeals to a broad spectrum of music lovers. Fans of bands ranging from Earth, Wind and Fire to No Doubt will enjoy the group as they serenade the town with their extensive song book. Admission is free and those attending the concert are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs and picnic dinners so they can spend the evening relaxing and listening to live music.

The campaign is aimed at keeping residents close to home so they can “stay and play” in Long Beach. A calendar detailing the time, place and type of events taking place during the 100 Days of Summer can be found at their website.

For a schedule of events, visit 100daysofsummer.org

Jason Ruiz covers City Hall and politics for the Long Beach Post. Reach him at [email protected] or @JasonRuiz_LB on Twitter.