This weekend marks the unofficial end to summer and reminds us that fall will be here before we know it. With fall’s arrival comes shorter days, cooler weather and busier schedules (that may have already started!). Take advantage of these last warm, long days of summer and add these four things to your “must do” list this weekend:
Hit the Water
Thanks to an end-of-summer heatwave, it will still really feel like summer this weekend. So, hit the beach (or the pool, or the lake, etc.). Most beaches and pools remain open through the Labor Day weekend (NYC Parks has numerous free outdoor options) so grab your swimsuit and take one last dip, go down the water slides, enjoy your favorite water sports or just layout and soak up the sun. Before you head out, toss in these 5 items you never thought belonged in your beach bag.
Taste Test Some Ice Cream
What says summer more than ice cream? Start a new end-of-summer family tradition by forgoing your regular ice cream stop and trying new places and flavors. Get one or two small samples from each shop over several different nights and see which you like best. Stock up on the flavor so you can enjoy even when the weather turns colder. You can also make your own ice cream–we have some great recipes for creating your own all-natural frozen concoctions.
Attend an Outdoor Concert
There is nothing like listening to a live band outside and NYC has some pretty amazing (and FREE!) opportunities for you to catch some outdoor music before the cold weather arrives. From Bargemusic at Brooklyn Bridge Park to Dee Dee LeVant Gospel Ensemble at Harlem Meer Performance Festival, grab a blanket and some food and enjoy the beautiful sounds under the summer sky. Be sure and pack your picnic basket with disposable and sustainable dinnerware.
Watch the Sunset
The sun sets every day, but there is nothing like a summer sunset. The large summer sun produces the best sunsets that you can’t find during the other seasons, so plan to spend your evening hours outdoors. It’s as simple as taking a walk after dinner, driving to the beach or enjoying a night out on your patio (perfect time for an end-of-summer s’more party!). Witnessing this colorful sunset may just take the sting out of knowing the season will soon change.
Talk to us: What will you be doing this weekend to soak up the last bit of fun out of summer?
image courtesy of flickr CC/Chris Ford