8 Things To Do in the Summer Before the Season Ends!

Kimberley Stakal |

Sep 10, 2024

Gearing up for back-to-school, tailgating season, and everything pumpkins? Wait! Before fall is officially here, take a peek at this checklist of leisurely summer must-dos. They’re good for the soul and will keep you young at heart (and help prevent the inevitable “I can’t believe summer’s over” woes). Here are 8 things to do in the summer before the season ends …

Take a dip in a natural body of water. If you live by a lake or an ocean, the summer isn’t complete until you’ve taken a dip. Whether you take a full swim in the water or simply do the mad dash in and out, there’s nothing like getting a cool refresher and drying off naturally in the sun. If you don’t have access to a natural body of water, at least treat yourself to a session at the local pool or waterpark.
Eat something directly from the garden. The spicy, grassy smell of a newly plucked tomato, the crunchy sweetness of a just-pulled carrot, the crispy coolness of fresh green beans … For those of us living in a climate with four seasons, there’s a limited window of opportunity to eat fresh fruits and veggies from the garden—and it’s worth taking advantage of when the season is right.
Devour something deliciously sloppy from the grill. Memorial Day and Labor Day pocket us inside the warm season we celebrate as “summer,” and it’s no accident that they are universal grilling holidays around the nation. Grilling is a ubiquitous summer ritual, and now is close to your last chance to get down on some freshly grilled goods. From the meaty side of ribs or kebabs to the juicy side of watermelon and corn on the cob, this is the prime time of year to savor these deliciously sloppy treats without shame.
Run around barefoot in the grass. So you’re not five years old anymore—does that mean you can’t have a moment of play while running around barefoot in the grass? You’ve got the rest of the year to wear shoes, heels, and eventually hefty boots. Set your feet free for an afternoon, and enjoy the warmth of the sun-kissed grass underneath your bare feet.
Take a nap—or quiet siesta—outside. Give yourself a break from the routine of your day and step outside for a moment of tranquility. Kick back in a hammock, throw a picnic blanket on the grass, or recline in a chair, and give yourself time to breathe and soak up the stillness of these long, late summer days. Fall asleep in the shade for an incredibly peaceful nap, or simply take five to decompress and recharge for the rest of your day.
Jump into a backyard or park game. Playtime isn’t just for tikes—even we big kids get a free pass to romp around in the summer months, thanks to adult-friendly games like beanbags, basketball, or baseball. Or better yet, get back to your childhood days and turn on the sprinkler for an invigorating run through the yard.
Slurp a frozen fruit bar on a hot day. Frozen fruit bars, pops, and smoothies are just the ticket on a hot summer afternoon, and will instantly transport you back to younger carefree days.
Kick back to an outdoors music show or neighborhood festival. If you’re lucky enough to live in a city that hosts outdoor music and street festivals in the summer, why not trek out? Just pack a bag with water, light snacks, and perhaps a blanket or lawn chair, and bask in the leisure of taking in the arts outside.