It goes without saying that after the long, treacherous year we've all had, summer 2021 is going to be unlike any other. With more people being vaccinated [1] and mask mandates being eased [2] (or lifted entirely) in many places, we'll finally be able to reunite with our friends and family under the sun. And what better way to celebrate getting back out there than with an ultimate summer bucket list?
Beaches [3] are open, concerts are back [4], and certain travel restrictions are gone, which means we've truly never been this excited for summer! While we should all absolutely continue to take safety measures when out and about this summer and respect people's choices about continuing to wear a mask, fun is back in a big way! From picnics in the park to catching firework shows to enjoying lazy days at the beach, consider this bucket list your one way ticket to the best summer ever.
Go to a Local Fair
Fried food! Supporting local businesses! Rides! Games!
Have a Sleepover With Your Best Friends
It doesn't matter if you're 16 or 30, having a sleepover with your best friends that involves junk food, movies, and funny stories and is truly unmatched. Experience that joy again this summer. Maybe even take it outside for a backyard sleepover under the stars!
Go to a Concert
If you feel comfortable going to a concert again this summer, let yourself go and dance the day (or night) away.
Visit a Museum
Miss just casually strolling through a museum? Tap into that sweet, sweet feeling again (and escape the heat).
Check Out Your Local Farmer's Market
And afterward, whip up a fun new recipe with some of the fresh food you got!
Go to the Beach
Enough said.
Visit an Amusement Park
Whether you make it to Disney or just your local fun park, there's nothing like enjoying a few roller coasters on a hot summer day.
Go to a Bar
Who else has missed hearing, "This round's on me?" Share a few drinks in a corner booth with your friends.
Go on a Hike
There's nothing like being out in nature to calm and reset your mind.
Go Stargazing
Appreciate the little things when you stop and look up.
Go Camping
Is there any better summer activity? Just don't forget to bring the s'mores fixings!
Play Hooky and Meet Your Friends For Lunch
Go on. You deserve it.
Go Mini Golfing
Mini golfing is the perfect summer date night idea.
Plant a Garden
Whether you plant a whole garden or just take care of one plant in your apartment, there's nothing more satisfying than watching your little green one grow.
Have a Bonfire
The. Best.
Devour a Beach Read
Spend a lazy day diving into another world.
Make a Slip 'n' Slide
Better yet: invite tons of your friends over and have a colour war! It'll feel just like summer camp.
Go on a Road Trip
Local travel will be very popular this summer, so it's time to start exploring our own backyards [6].
Learn a New Recipe
And if you're not in the mood to bake over a hot stove, try this two-ingredient no-bake fudge [7].
Have a Water Balloon Fight
Summer is the perfect time to act like a kid again!
Watch a Movie in the Backyard
Here's how to set up a backyard projection screen.
Go on a Trip
Be sure to check on any travel restrictions for your destination, but it's time to dust off that passport.
Go to a Baseball Game
Being back in the ball park will feel so good.
Visit a Flea Market
Find those gems that you've been missing out on lately.
Cheer on Team USA during the Summer Olympics
Maybe even have an Olympics-themed party!
Go on a Bike Ride
Try riding to a new coffee shop or park you've never been to.
Go on a Picnic
Picnics can be enjoyed with friends or solo! Just make sure you have all of your favourite snacks.
Go on a Boat Ride
And definitely jump in the water multiple times.
Visit the Zoo
The zoo can make for the perfect day out.
Watch a Firework Show
Fireworks aren't only for the Fourth of July — enjoy them all summer long.
Go Kayaking
Kayaking is a great way to explore somewhere new.
Host a Backyard Barbecue
Good food + good friends = all you need.
Go Fishing
And soak up that peace and quiet.
Try Every Ice Cream Shop in Your City
Depending on where you live, this could either be an easy task or a huge undertaking, but that's why it's fun!
Hug Your Friends and Family (Finally!)
If everyone is fully vaccinated and comfortable hugging again, soak it all up. It's been too damn long.