Ideas for a Not-So-SADD end of Summer

I’m sure I’m not the only one who feels this way; summer seems to be going by fast. However, it’s mid-August, meaning we still have a few weeks of summer left to enjoy. Whether you’re working, traveling, or staying home, peruse this list for some fun, safe activities to round out your summer bucket list before Labor Day rolls around. 

• Outdoor Movie night - Movies are a great way to pass time and during summer, warm weather is the added advantage, making your backyard a perfect place to watch. Mini projectors may be a good investment if you have space in your yard. You can invest in a screen or make a makeshift one with a large white blanket. Grab some popcorn and get your family and friends to join you. 

• Bike riding - Summer bike rides are a good way to exercise and enjoy the summer weather. Afternoon biking around sunset might be the most ideal, as it'll be cooler and more comfortable. If you choose to bike at night, be sure that your bike has reflectors, and a bell and maybe invest in a bike light. These can all help keep you and pedestrians and drivers safe while riding at night. Be sure to wear a helmet and bring water with you to stay hydrated.  

• Beach trip - A trip to the beach is a great way to spend the day with friends. You can lie in the sand, swim in the ocean, walk on the boardwalk, and grab a bite to eat for lunch. Since I live on Long Island, my friends and I love going to different beaches in the area to hang out. There are days we go swimming and take in some sun, and on others, we stick to the boardwalk to watch the sunset. It's advisable to visit the beach in a group; it is a public place and you're less likely to be bothered in a larger group. Whether you're driving, walking, or biking, beach towns get busy, so be mindful as you’re on the road. A lot of beach visitors drink or smoke, making the surrounding roads risky altogether. Catching the train is a good option to get home from the beach; my friends and I have taken the train for under $5 and helps us avoid the hectic roads. Additionally, water, hats, umbrellas, and sunscreen are essential for sun protection; don't underestimate the sun. 

• Visit the local pool - Spending some time at the pool is an excellent alternative to the beach for those who can’t stand the sand or don't live near the coast. If you don't have a pool and love swimming, consider heading to the local town pool or applying for a membership to a YMCA-type location with a pool. 

• Backyard Camping - Backyard camping is a much safer and easier version of regular camping. I did this with some friends a few summers ago and had a pleasant experience. If you choose to do it with friends, opt for the friend's house with the most spacious yard. Set up tents, roll out the sleeping bags, and get some blankets for a makeshift yard camping setup. Smores, card games, and swimming enhance the backyard camping experience. I would recommend spraying the yard for mosquitoes, getting mosquito candles, or spraying with repellant to avoid getting bitten excessively. 

• DIY projects - On rainy days, DIY projects and crafts make great gifts or house decor. Tie-dye shirts, room pennants, crochet tops, and shell crafts are some ideas. There are plenty of YouTube and TikTok tutorials to help guide you. These projects can be extremely time-consuming, and they are projects you likely wouldn’t get to do throughout the school year. I find crafting relaxing and it's something you can do from the comfort of your home. 

Best advice though is to find some time to spend phone-free. We'll be back in school (or maybe some of us already are!) soon enough and using so much tech to learn. Leave the phones in your pocket and just enjoy those last great days of summer instead!!

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For some other great crafty inspiration, check out the Eras toolkit, which has plenty of SADD-related crafts and activities you can try on rainy days. Download the whole toolkit @ sadd.org/programs