As the golden days of summer begin to wind down and back-to-school routines start creeping in, there’s still time to soak in the sunshine and create memories that will carry us into the cooler months. Whether your family thrives on outdoor adventures or quiet moments at home, here are 10 simple and sweet ways to celebrate the last chapter of summer.
1. Feed the Ducks at a Local Pond
Grab a bag of cracked corn or oats and head to a nearby pond or lake. It’s a peaceful way to connect with nature, and kids love watching the ducks waddle and swim.
2. Take a Sunset Walk Barefoot at the Beach
There’s nothing like the feeling of warm sand between your toes and the sound of waves as the sun sets. Make it a tradition to say goodbye to summer with a barefoot stroll.
3. Grow and Harvest Herbs for Fall Cooking
Use these final warm days to plant fast-growing herbs like dill, cilantro, or basil. Snip what’s ready now and dry them together as a family—perfect for cozy autumn meals or homemade gifts.
4. Make Homemade Popsicles TogetherBeat the heat and have some fun in the kitchen by making popsicles with your kids! Use leftover watermelon, berries, or other seasonal fruit—and don’t forget to try the Watermelon Popsicle Recipe we shared for National Watermelon Day. It’s a delicious way to cool off and make memories together.
5. Host a “Goodbye Summer” Backyard Barbecue
Invite a few friends or neighbors for one last laid-back evening of good food, laughter, and yard games. Let the kids stay up just a little later and chase fireflies one last time.
6. Visit a Farmer’s Market & Let the Kids Pick Something
Take a family trip to your local market and let each child pick out one fruit or veggie. Challenge yourselves to cook or taste something new together at home.
7. Press Summer Flowers into a Scrapbook
Spend a morning gathering flowers or leaves, then press them into a scrapbook or notebook. Add little notes or memories next to each one to look back on.
8. Pick Wildflowers for the Kitchen Table
Keep summer alive indoors with a fresh bouquet of wildflowers. It’s a simple joy that brightens up any room.
9. Create a Stepping Stone or Handprint in the Garden
Capture a moment in time with a handprint in cement or decorate a stepping stone to place in your garden as a memory of summer.
10. Download and Color Our Free End-of-Summer Coloring Page Before the backpacks and lunchboxes take over, enjoy a creative moment with our custom coloring page. It's a fun, relaxing way to wrap up summer break.
Summer may be ending, but the memories you make now will last long after the sunscreen is packed away. Savor every last ray of sunshine and celebrate the season with those you love.
