Summer months are fast and fleeting. July feels like the glory days…endless summer days stretched out in front of you. August feels different. It’s like somewhere in the distance you can hear a clock ticking. This is especially true if you are still ruled by a school calendar. You know what’s coming. It’s time to make the most of August.

I love living in a place with 4 seasons, but lets be honest, some of them drag on a bit longer than others. In the dead of winter, most Canadians start dreaming about beach days, swimming in the lake, eating outside, and sitting by the bonfire. It’s what keeps us going. This the time to make sure you are taking full advantage of these beautiful days.

Here are 10 ways to make the most of August:

1. Swim in a lake.

There is nothing more classic than jumping off a dock to signify a glorious summer day. Lake water in August often feels like a bathtub. Go for an evening swim…even better.

2. Go out for Ice Cream

Seriously, some days it’s just too hot to cook. Why not just go out for ice cream instead? The kids will love it…the grown ups will too…ice cream and summer just go together.

3. Have a bonfire

Some of the best summer memories are made sitting by a bonfire in the evening. Marshmallows and/or smores optional. Sun going down…fire crackling…sipping on something refreshing…this is life.

4. Take a walk on the beach

We are so fortunate to be surrounded by our pick of beautiful beaches. Worried about the crowds? (truthfully, we don’t really have a crowd problem here on the South Shore) Go in the morning or evening and cool off in the water’s edge. The beach is calming and therapeutic and make for the best summer memories…and photos.

5. Have friends over for dinner

Summer entertaining should be easy and carefree. If it’s a beautiful day, throw out a spontaneous invite to some friends and tell everyone to bring something. Barbecue some burgers, have a corn boil or pick up a pizza…and if you can…eat outside. There is no easier time to entertain and be social. Just do it. You will be so glad you did.

6. Go listen to some live music

Summer and music festivals go hand in hand. In most towns there are usually some free outdoor concerts happening as well. Take a little picnic, grab your blanket or chairs and enjoy the sounds of summer. You may just find a new favorite artist.

The Town of Bridgewater has Music Along the Riverbank this summer. Chester has a Picnic in the Park and the Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival has a Summer Concert Series.

7. Go for a walk in the park or on the trails

August typically has some fresh mornings and evenings. Perfect time to lace up and visit a park or trail. Get some exercise, listen to the birds and enjoy the lush beautiful scenery around you. You will feel refreshed…mentally and physically…after your walk, what could be better?

8. Read a book

One of the best ways to make the most of August is actually slowing down and relaxing. Grab your blanket or beach chair, find some shade and lose yourself in the pages of a novel. The dishes/mowing/gardening…can wait. 😉 Need some ideas? Check out our Summer Reading Guide (2017).

9. Be a tourist in your town

I’m willing to bet that a lot people do not frequent the tourist hot spots in your own home town. Go check out the museum, take part in a “walking tour” or just look at where you live through fresh eyes. People come from all over the world to visit…see it the way they see it.

Maybe do a tour at a local Winery like Petite Riviere Vineyards or a Distillery…

10. Play a game

Even if you are not a natural athlete, there are lots of summer games for every level and ability. Washer-toss, Frisbee, badminton, volleyball…the list is really endless. Grab a group of friends, hit up a park or green space and have some fun! Game on!

You don’t want to look back and think, “We didn’t do anything this summer…”. Summer memories can be made in lots of little ways that don’t cost much, but will leave you reminiscing long after it is past. How do you intend to make the most of August? 🙂