11 ways to celebrate summer

Now that it’s officially summer, I love how easy it is to get outdoors – most of my Saturdays, in fact, are spent there! Read on for some simple ways you can get in the spirit of the season and spend some time in the fresh air.

1. Picnic. Whether you pick up a pizza or sandwiches, pack a full picnic basket with seasonal goodies or plan to grill something at the park, eating al fresco is one of our most time-honored summer traditions.
2. Fly kites. Flying a kite is something you might not have done since you were a kid – but I highly encourage it! This works best on a windy day, obviously, but finding a good hilltop also helps. Stay away from power lines!
3. Color with chalk. Another childhood favorite, round up some chunky chalks and decorate your driveway, sidewalk or stepping stone.
4. Visit a state or metro park. Chances are you’re not very far away from a place with trails, scenery and maybe some wildlife. Plan an afternoon there and get some exercise while you’re at it! Many parks offer free programs and activities, so check before you go.
5. Organize a game of Ultimate Frisbee. It’s simple, it’s cheap, and most people know how to play. Round up friends or family for a full game, or find a willing participant or two and just toss it. Works with baseballs, footballs and the like, too.
6. Porch-sit. If you’re into more mellow outdoors time, pull up a patch of porch, desk, patio, stoop or balcony and take a seat. Read a magazine, people-watch, jot down your to-do list for the week, or just bask in the sun. If it’s raining and you’re under cover, this is also a way to get outside without getting wet.
7. Do some yard work. It had to be said. Weeding, picking up sticks (the absolute worst yard job ever; please don’t tell me otherwise), mowing or planting — they all count as getting outside. When you’re done, reward yourself with a batch of fresh lemonade.
8. Go strawberry picking. In most of the country, it’s prime strawberry season. Find your local patch and pick yourselves some of the freshest berries you’ve ever had.
9. Find a food truck rally. If you haven’t noticed, food trucks are hot, hot, hot right now, and delicious besides. For one of your meals today, look for a food truck rally in your area, or just find out where one likes to hang out and go there.
10. Host an outdoor get-together. A simple menu of drinks and snacks or some burgers on the grill means you can spend more time with the people you invited. If the weather takes a turn for the worse, head inside and break out some board games. As it gets dark out, move to the yard to light a fire (if it’s allowed in your area – check first!).
11. Stargazing. Another nighttime activity everyone can enjoy, spread a blanket in the yard and try to pick out the constellations you know. Not every city will have great viewing conditions, unfortunately (light pollution is one culprit, besides weather and clouds), but you can check viewing conditions and what to look for on NASA’s website.

Having fun getting outside and getting away from it all (even for a little bit) is one of my favorite things about summer. How do you like to spend time outdoors? Share with me below!