Photo by Askar Abayev from Pexels
Summer is a time for relaxing and fun in the sun. After a rough last year, you deserve to kick back and enjoy the weather. While states are opening back up and travel is now possible, you may want to simply enjoy the season in your own backyard with friends and family. Luckily, there are many activities to do without leaving home.
So kick back, open a cold beverage, and enjoy this list of ideas on how to make your summer great without leaving home.
1. Put In a Pool
Nothing is more summery than splashing in a pool. Many communities have pools that are now opened back up to the public. If you like the hustle and bustle of a public pool, then that is an excellent and cost-effective option; but why not go all out and put in your own private pool? If you have space on your property, a pool can give you, your family, and your friends hours of fun. It doesn’t have to break the bank either. The in ground pool cost is dependent on what you order. A stylized grotto might be expensive, but a standard oval pool may fit your budget perfectly. Pretty soon, you’ll be hosting pool parties and soaking up the summer sun.
2. Host a BBQ
With the warmer weather comes the opportunity to cook outside. Hosting a BBQ is the perfect chance to have some summer fun. Try making a themed party by encouraging international foods; or maybe dressing in costumes. You could make it elegant by having everyone dress up as if going to a cocktail party. If you really want to make it a bash, include your whole block in the invite. Don’t forget the entertainment. Yard games like bean bag toss are an easy way to keep people engaged and entertained. As the afternoon transitions to evening, turn on the patio lights and hire a local band to play music. The options for barbeques are endless.
3. Install a Fire Pit
Who says you can only have a camping fire while camping in the woods? Many people are installing temporary or permanent fire pits in their backyards. Summer isn’t quite the same without some s’mores around a fire. There are plenty of DIY plans on the internet for permanent fire pits, and they won’t set you back too much money either. Most are very easy to install with materials from your local big box hardware store. The options are endless from a simple stone ring to an elaborate patio with a sunken fire pit. You can even add a wood-fired pizza oven if you want to go all out. If you are looking for something more temporary or portable, go for a metal fire pit. Like the stone varieties, these portable pits can be as simple or elaborate as your budget allows. Whatever you choose, an evening around the fire will be the source of many treasured memories.
4. Garage Sale
While it may sound like work (and it is to an extent), a summer garage sale can not only declutter your home and make a little cash but can also be a fun activity for the family. Spend a rainy spring day and sort through your storage for items that you no longer need or want and set them aside for the sale. Include the kids in the process by helping them sort through their old toys and books for unused items. Kids can put special colored dots on their items, so they get the money for it when they sell. Be sure to plan ahead with price stickers, tables, and maybe a money box. Also, try to coordinate your sale date with a community garage sale weekend for maximum traffic. While garage sales are generally not big money-makers, they can be an excellent opportunity to declutter and have a little summer fun.
There are a ton of ways to have a good time this summer without taking big trips. With a little imagination and preparation, you can make some special memories.