OC residents can explore history, arts for free this weekend

Dozens of free events across Orange County on May 2-3 offer residents a chance to explore local history, outdoor wilderness and the arts at no cost, according to Voice of OC.

The weekend calendar highlights publicly funded programs available at no cost to residents, spanning museum tours, wilderness hikes and library workshops across North, South, Central and Coastal Orange County.

The Rancho Days Fiesta at Heritage Hill Historical Park in Lake Forest will feature Native American and Folklorico dancing, Charro horse riding and roping demonstrations, along with tours of historic buildings on the park grounds, Voice of OC reported.

In Anaheim, Founders' Park is home to the Mother Colony House — Orange County's oldest museum. Built in 1857 during Anaheim's founding, the structure was once the residence of whom Voice of OC described as "the father of Anaheim."

Black Star Canyon near Silverado opens for self-guided wilderness hiking Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., according to Voice of OC. The Hilbert Museum, which houses one of the largest California narrative art collections in existence, offers free admission with advance reservations.

Free library programs scheduled across the county this weekend include an estate planning workshop, a health literacy workshop, an AP exam study room and a Lego Club, Voice of OC reported. Voice of OC noted all events were organized by geographic region to help residents find activities close to home.

Voice of OC noted all listed events are funded by public tax dollars and encouraged residents to subscribe to its daily email newsletter for updates on upcoming community programs throughout the county.