Summer is every kid’s favorite time of the year — school’s out and they can have all the fun they want. Although summer may be a little different this year, there are still plenty of fun summer activities to enjoy close to home.
Here is a list of the ultimate summer activities to enjoy with the family:
Make your own ice cream
Making your own ice cream is much better than going to an ice cream shop. You get to have fun with your friends and family, see how ice cream is made and even create your own flavor. Although there are tons of recipes online, The Best (and Easiest) Ice Cream You’ll Ever Make is one of my favorites.
Go to the beach
Grab your beach towel and swimsuit and head to the beach. Whether on a daytrip or a vacation, the beach is a summer must. Don’t forget to bring your beach toys for the kids; boogie boards to catch some waves; and sunscreen.
Go to an amusement park
Get ready for a day full of thrills and excitement at an amusement park. To make the most of your day, get there early and stay until closing — see if you can ride all the rides before it’s time to go. Make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day and apply sunscreen.
Slip-n-Slide
Whether you buy one at the store or make your own out of a tarp, water and soap, a slip-n-slide is one of the best summer activities. Invite your friends and have some friendly competition. Don’t forget to add extra soap and water to make it more slippery.

Kids playing on Slip-n-Slide. Photo: Scamp | Dreamstime.com
Go to a fair or carnival
There are plenty of pop-up fairs and carnivals throughout summer. Enjoy delicious food, carnival games and rides.
Tie-dye fun
There is something about summer that makes me want to tie dye every piece of white clothing I own. Recreate your summer camp days and grab white shirts, socks, shorts, sheets (and anything you can think of) and a tie-dye kit and get creative. Keep the finished product for yourself, or gift it.
Have a bonfire and make s’mores
After a day of summer fun, spend the night relaxing by the bonfire, telling ghost stories or listening to your favorite songs. Make sure you have the graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate ready for s’mores.
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