It’s the season we’ve all been waiting for, SUMMERTIME! With the welcoming of warm weather, longer days, and sunshine people often ask the question – How will I spend my summer now that I am sober? Here are some ways to make the most of the season.
1. A Day at the Beach
Grab the sunscreen and let the fun begin! New Jersey, Chicago, or a tropical island, having the sun on your face and the sand between your toes is the epitome of a true summer day. Rent a boogie or surf board, build a sandcastle, or just kick back and enjoy soaking in some vitamin D. Unsure of where the nearest beach is? Click on the link below to find the closest beach no matter where in the world you are!
2. Grillin and Chillin
Nothing tastes better than food on the grill. Whether you are biting into a juicy flame grilled burger or watermelon and pineapple (yes, grilled fruit is amazing), gathering friends together for a barbecue is a great way to enjoy the summer. Don’t have a grill… no worries! Many parks, forest preserves, and picnic grounds all have grills you can use for free. Not sure what to make? See a few links below for some great summer grilling recipes.
3. Have a Thrilling Time
Looking to add a little adrenaline rush to those hot summer days and nights? Head to your local amusement park and take a ride on a heart-pounding roller coaster. If the long lines and heat start to get to you, jump on a water ride and cool off while keeping the excitement going. Amusement park not in your summer budget? Local carnivals can be a great way to get your adrenaline rush on a smaller budget. Plus, you can enjoy corndogs, cotton candy, and funnel cakes but, make sure you eat those after the rides! Click on the link below to find amusement parks and carnivals in your area.
4. Get Soaked!
If you are a thrill seeker but beating the heat is your top priority, head over to waterpark in your area. Twist, turn, spin and splash down a slide or, kick back on a tube and float down a lazy river. Check out some of the best water parks in the country:
5. Work it Out
A workout is a great way to reduce stress and stay in shape both physically and mentally. Instead of running on the treadmill like a hamster on a wheel, take your workout outside and boost those endorphins while getting a healthy dose of vitamin D. Plenty of park districts hold outdoor fitness classes and different athletic stores play host to running clubs in the area. Feel like flying solo? Check out the link below to get a great outdoor total body workout:
6. Be a Team Player
Have a little competitive edge inside of you? Join an intermural summer sports league! Depending on where you live or your athletic ability, a few options are:
- Softball
- Volleyball
- Kickball
- Basketball
- Tennis
- Bocheball
- Horseshoes
- Ultimate Frisbee
Have a team or need to join one? The link below will help you get the ball in motion.
7. Get Green
We can all go to our local grocery store or farmer’s market to get our favorite fruits and veggies but, why not test out your green thumb and try to grow some of your own. If you feel hindered by not having a yard of your own, not to worry! See the link below for the best indoor fruit and veggies to grow:
8. A Cinematic Summer
The box office will have lines down the block to catch the new summer blockbuster but, who wants to sit inside on a warm summer night? Catch an old classic love story or a scary slasher pic at a local park or beach! We found some great ones in a city near you –
9. Give Back
Having fun in the sun can be twice as fun if it involves doing a little volunteer work. Here are a few organizations that are always looking for a helping hand:
- Boys and Girls Club
- PAWS
- Habitat for Humanity
- Salvation Army
- American Red Cross
- Big Brothers/Big Sisters of America
- Make A Wish
Looking to make a difference in your community? Click the link below to find an opportunity near you:
10. See the Sites
No wind, no snow, no ice to get in your way! Grab some friends, pack some food, and take a road trip to a place you’ve always wanted to see. This summer, gas prices are lower than they have been in the past so, this is the perfect opportunity. Looking for a car or some new travel pals? The links below will have you on your journey!
LET’S ALL HAVE A GREAT SUMMER!
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