In a city where apartments cost an arm and a leg and a glass of beer can run upward of $6, D.C.’s summer interns can find themselves on tight budgets.

Fear not. Despite D.C.’s exorbitant prices and low-paying or even nonpaying internships, the area has some free activities that are perfect for young newcomers. And, of course, if all else fails, there are all those free Smithsonian museums.

Screen on the Green

Bring a soft blanket and bag of popcorn and enjoy the midsummer nights while watching Sean Connery in “Goldfinger” or other classic films.

Where: National Mall

When: Mondays at 8:30 p.m. from July 12 to Aug. 2

Ultimate Underdogs Movie Series

The Capitol Riverfront will show movies including “Forrest Gump” (June 10), “Shrek” (June 17) and “The Karate Kid” (June 24). Before the films begin, festivities will include hula-hooping, basketball and food and beverages for sale.

Where: Canal Park,

Second and M streets Southeast

When: Thursdays at 8:45 p.m. through Aug. 5

Golden Triangle Summer Concerts

Listen to blues, funk, reggae, soul and Latin music by local bands.

Where: Farragut Square Park,

17th and K streets Northwest

When: Thursdays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. through July 22

Jazz in the Garden

The National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden hosts free jazz concerts.

Where: Seventh Street and Constitution Avenue Northwest

When: Fridays from 5 to 8:30 p.m. (rain or shine) through Sept. 10

Sunset Serenades

The National Zoo brings back its popular concerts held on Lion/Tiger Hill.

Where: 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW

When: 6:30 to 8 p.m. July 22 and 29 and Aug. 5

Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage

From world-renowned cellists, violists and trumpeters to ballet, Afro-fusion and contemporary dance company performances, the shows have something for everyone. A free bus runs from the Foggy Bottom Metro Station to the Kennedy Center.

Where: 2700 F St. NW

When: 6 p.m. daily

Politics and Prose’s Book Groups

Interns who miss the academic challenge of school might enjoy the Politics and Prose Bookstore’s book groups. Join any of the store’s 16 groups. There’s no need to sign up in advance. See politics-prose.com/bookgroups for details.

Where: 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW

Smithsonian Folklife Festival

This year’s event features Mexican and Asian Pacific cultures, including demonstrations in making baskets, corn dolls, candies and tortillas, and mariachi-style musical, dance and martial arts performances. A few tents will give a behind-the-scenes look at Smithsonian employees’ work, such as researching, caring for exhibitions and animals, and protecting exhibits.

Where: National Mall

When: June 24-28 and July 1-5