Fun Summer Evening Activities
July has arrived and I’m already telling summer to slow down! It’s such a carefree time of year and I love to savor every moment of it. Rather than spend evenings in front of the television, I have a list of fun summer evening activities. Some are free and easy, others cost a little more money (but not much).
Since today is the first Saturday of the month, it’s time for me to join my Cozy Living friends for monthly inspiration. See what everyone has going on in their corner of the world at the bottom of this post. For me, July is all about summer fun and enjoying the beautiful evenings.
1. Take a Walk on the Beach at Sunset
Walking on the beach at night is always enjoyable. It’s typically less crowded and the sand is cooler on the feet. Since there’s less people, you can enjoy the sound of the waves and the seagulls. It’s almost a magical experience. If you don’t have a nearby beach, find a river trail.
2. Host a Nighttime Picnic
Rather than fight the heat of the sun during the day, host a picnic in the evening. You could meet friends in the park or even have it at your own home. Kids will enjoy glow-in-the-dark games.
3. Attend a Carnival in the Evening
Enjoy the magic of carnival lights and indulge in some cotton candy while you’re at it. It’s fun to relive the joy of your youth – and be sure to go on a few rides.
4. Light an Old-Fashioned Campfire
Is there anything more enjoyable in the evening than gathering around the campfire with loved ones? Roasting marshmallows and making s’mores is a must – but don’t forget to sing a few campfire songs and tell ghost stories!
5. Take an Evening Walk
My favorite time of day to take a summer walk is in the early evening just as the sun is beginning to set. Find a woodsy trail to enjoy the last of the sun’s rays poking through the trees and casting long shadows on your walk. It’s a great way to end the day.
6. Visit City Points of Interest
It’s fun to visit local points of interest when the weather is warm, but seeing the city lights at night is one of the more memorable summer evening activities. I live 44 miles west of Chicago and the town takes on a whole new vibe at night. The skyline is amazing, and so is Buckingham Fountain which is located in Grant Park.
7. Take an Evening Sailboat Cruise
Since we’re on the topic of Chicago, there are numerous boat rides to enjoy. From an architectural cruise to a booze cruise, you’re sure to find something of interest. A fun option is an evening sailboat cruise – especially one that serves wine!
8. Visit a Winery in the Evening
Two years ago when we went to Door County, Wisconsin for our summer vacation, we visited Stone’s Throw Winery just before sunset. It was that magical golden hour just before dusk and it was so beautiful. Put it on your bucket list this summer!
9. Get Ice Cream at Night
Do you have an ice cream shop nearby? Treat yourself to dessert after dinner. Lucky for me, our town’s ice cream stop is just a few blocks from my house. We always walk there to help burn off the calories! Evening is a fun time to go and see other people in the community. It’s always hopping at night!
I’m sure you can think of more fun summer evening activities if you give it some thought. Lots of towns offer outdoor evening concerts or outdoor plays. Try something you haven’t done before! It might just become a new summer favorite.
And now, be sure to visit my friends below to see their inspiration for the month of July!
Hymns and Verses / A Stroll Thru Life / Vinyet Etc.
Finding Silver Pennies / Town and Country Living
Love all these ideas! I’m feeling the same – want to slow this special time down.
These are all such fun ideas. I need to make plans for a few of them with my family.
Great ideas! You’ve inspired me!
These are some simple and fun ideas, I would love to take a walk down a wooded path.
Beautifull pictures! My Grand-daughter also injoyed! Thank you for your great inspiration.
Judith & Marie – Soleil (7 years old).
The evening Ice Cream Trip is my FAVORITE! And you said that we HAD to, right? Thanks!!!
I love all of these ideas, it’s funny how taking the time to do these simple yet amazing things gets pushed down on the list. These wonderful activities are the best way to recharge! I am so guilty of not taking the time to recharge… time to make a new “to-do” list, one that includes more of this! Thank you for the inspiration! xo
Great ideas to segway into Autumn