By Madhurya Gajula and Emma Prol
You've already seen the commercials. Those back-to-school clothes commercials and Target's school supply shopping videos. You've peed a little in your pants, but worst of all — you feel like you haven't even accomplished half of what you wanted to accomplish during the summer. But don't fret, as summer comes to a close, here are a few ideas on how to soak up those last few weeks of freedom and to enjoy summer with food, friends, and fun!
1. Enjoy a sunset
Sunsets are a perfect way to unwind after a long day and showcase nature's beauty. Grab a drink and a blanket and relax!
2. Stargaze
After the sun sets, take some time to marvel the vast universe. You can stargaze right from your own backyard, or head to a spot away from pollution and streetlights.
3. Make something
Crafting is a great pastime and can be a great way to cherish memories. Even if you're the least artistic person ever, start with something simple such as a tie-dye t-shirt or a paper-mâché project.
4. Visit a local fair or amusement park
The fair is a great place to hang out with friends, munch on fried foods and desserts and get on some crazy rides! You definitely don't want to miss the corndogs and funnel cake!
5. Go berry picking
Blackberries, blueberries and strawberries are in season from around late April to early September (check your local farms for picking dates). Make some cobblers and other sweet treats or eat them as you pick!
6. Build a summer playlist
Fill it with all your favorite summer hits! A playlist is a great way to see the evolution of your music tastes and can help you beat the stress during finals week.
7. Explore the great outdoors
Go hiking, biking, camping — whatever your interests are, take some time to enjoy the great outdoors. Nature can help reset your circadian rhythm, get your sleep schedule back on track and is a great way to get away from technology for a little bit!
8. Work on your tan
Grab a lemonade and some sunglasses, and head to the pool or beach with some friends!
9. Read a book
Reading is more fun when you're not forced to read something you don't even care about... visit a local library, bookstore or a friend, and find something that fits your tastes!
10. Take a road trip
Take a spontaneous or well-planned out trip to explore nature, visit new cities, eat new food and connect with your friends! The best part about road trips is their customization; you can go anywhere for however long, and you always learn something new.
11. Have a photo shoot
Summer is the perfect time to get a nice outfit on, head out to a local field, restaurant, park or shopping center and take photos with friends. Whether you are taking the photos or posing, you will be certain to capture some amazing memories.
12. Take a bath
When was the last time you took some time to yourself to relax and process all of the crazy events going on in your life? A bath is a perfect way to do this. Grab a bath bomb or some bubble bath, and just forget about the world for 10 minutes.
13. Call an old friend
You know that friend that you used to be super close with then something happened and you stopped talking as frequently? Call them, and catch up. If you don't want to catch up, at least you will have a great time reminiscing.
14. Go to a spontaneous brunch
Brunch gives you an excuse to go out, and have a fancy meal in opposition your daily oatmeal at 10 a.m. Plus, it sounds super fancy to say and looks great on your Instagram feed.
15. Fly a kite
Kites are not just for little kids. Summer is about being outside and enjoying the weather because before you know it the leaves will be turning orange, and there will be a chill in the breeze. Flying that kite sitting in the back of your garage will give you an excuse to stand out, and enjoy the lovely weather while it is still here.
16. Have a movie marathon
Sometimes the summer heat can be too hot, so whatever your streaming service of choice is, kick back with your favorite snacks and friends, and have a movie marathon!
17. Watch a thunderstorm
Thunderstorms are beautiful and a fundamental part of any southern summer. They also give a great excuse to sit on the couch, and look out the window for hours on hours.
