Feature Image by Kendra Kamp
The summer solstice (June 21) — aka the longest day of the year — officially marks the start of summer. With optimal hours of sunlight, there’s no better time of the year to get your tan on and soak up the sun’s rays.
Here are 10 ways you can celebrate the first day of summer.
Grab a scoop of your favorite ice cream
Ice cream should be its own food group this time of year. Go and get a scoop (or two) of seasonal flavors, as well as some classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate.
Host a summer solstice party
Put that grill to good use and kickstart summer by throwing a party. It doesn’t need to be a big one, the idea is to just get all of your closest friends together!
Head to the beach
What’s summer without a trip to the beach? Enjoy the first day of summer playing volleyball, dipping your toes in the ocean, or just laying under the sun with your favorite summer read in hand.
Set your sails for the sea
Head out to sea! Whether you know someone who has a boat or you rent one for the day, the summer solstice is the time to let your stresses and worries float away at sea.
Visit an amusement park
Embrace your inner child and find your way to your city’s amusement park. Hop on all the rides, take photos with the park characters, and eat a whole lot of cotton candy.
Go whale watching
Research the best time of year to go whale watching in your area. For example, in southern California, while you can go whale watching year-round, summer is the optimal season to see blue whales and fin whales.
Have a picnic
Walk or drive to a nearby park and enjoy a meal under the summer sun (because it’s the simple things in life that can bring the most joy!).
Enjoy an outdoor movie or concert
When the days get longer and warmer, a lot of cities and towns will host outdoor activities like movie nights, concerts, and festivals. Whether you search through social media or peek at your local newspaper’s events section, find out what’s going on in your town.
Plan a bonfire with friends
Make the most out of the longest day of the year and head for the shore. Coordinate your time of arrival with the sunset, so you can end the day with a bonfire, fireside chat, and s’mores.
Go for a hike
There’s no time like summer to break a sweat outside. Enjoy all that mother nature has to offer while getting in a workout.
xx, The FabFitFun Team
