The summer months leave us a little more relaxed. The days are longer, the pool is open, and we’re always ready to hang out with friends.
These ideas for my summer bucket list are inspired by my book, The Kidult Handbook. They’re a little nostalgic, focus on stress relief, and are a whole lot of fun.
10 Summer Bucket List Ideas:
1. Have a sleepover.
Sleepovers were a quintessential part of growing up but we’ve mostly completely abandoned them now! Invite over a few girlfriends, have everyone bring their favorite skincare, and throw on some millennial classic movies like Clueless or Mean Girls. Make some frosé, gourmet popcorn, order a pizza, and just relax!
2. Plan a “field trip.”
If the vacation you planned is feeling a little too far away, why not plan a field trip to hold you over? You could go alone but bringing a friend along will be a more fun for you both! Take a little PTO and drive to a nearby museum or attraction like you would when you were in school. This time, you don’t need even need a permission slip! And no need to pack a bag lunch — unless you want to, of course!
3. Go to a water park.
What’s better than cooling off in hot summer temps? Schedule a day at the water park with your pals. You could just hang out in the lazy river or tap into your wild side and go down the gravity defying water slides. Don’t forget your beach towel!
4. Make pom pom penholders.
Pom poms are super in right now. Take the trend from your clothes and fashion accessories to your desk! Gather your supplies and have everyone over to make their own! Make it like a wine and paint night and have some one bring the pinot and spend the afternoon together. Everyone can take their penholder to work for a fun memory!
5. DIY tie-dye t-shirts.
Get creative and DIY tie-dye shirts together! Grab a kit from a local craft store and have at it. If you want to go the extra mile, sign up for a 5K after you make your shirts and run together like you’re on a team.
6. Book swap.
If you’re a group of readers, refresh everyone’s book shelves by swapping favorites!
7. Make your own sundae bar.
Instead of brunch, have ice cream for breakfast! Invite everyone over and set up your bar with various flavors and toppings. You’re adults now, no one can tell you ice cream for breakfast is a bad idea.
8. Whip out a frisbee.
Head to a local park and toss a frisbee about! You’ll get out of the house, get in a little exercise, and have fun with friends while you’re at it!
9. Host a field day.
In part 5 of the book, I outline how to host your very own field day! Just like in elementary school, you can face-off in challenges like relay faces, team events, and skill sports that put your reflexes to the test! Pick a few of the activities, make a few snacks, and have everyone pitch in a few bucks for prizes for the winners. A little competition among friends is just the way to spice up a summer Saturday.
10. Play Quidditch Pong.
Take beer pong to the next level by bringing Harry Potter’s favorite game to life. Full instructions are on page 82 of the book. And pro-tip? Fill your cup with butter beer to keep it on-brand.
And there we have it! Ten things to put on your summer bucket list. Which of these will you do first?!
For 150 more ideas like these, pick up The Kidult Handbook here.
About the Author
Nicole Booz is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of GenTwenty, GenThirty, and The Capsule Collab. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and is the author of The Kidult Handbook (Simon & Schuster May 2018). She currently lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two sons. When she’s not reading or writing, she’s probably hiking, eating brunch, or planning her next great adventure.
Website: genthirty.com