Summer 2020 is upon us and the global pandemic isn't going anywhere. We all hoped that it would be over by now, but it is most definitely not (at least in the United States). 

  

Summer is, for most people, the most active time of the year. It is the time for the most travel, concerts, parties, and weddings. Unfortunately, most of those activities are not possible this year.

  

If you had plans to travel to Europe, got to a countryside wedding, or even just to watch your favorite baseball team in person, you are probably finding yourself a little disappointed and with a lot more free time.

   

Although it is seriously disappointing to miss out on plans that you made, it is MUCH better to be safe at home and to protect others from the virus.  We put together a list of 8 summer activities to keep you safe and sane this summer and fill up some of your newly found free time.

  

This backyard picnic set up from It's Demi B is so beautiful and surprisingly simple and inexpensive to put together. She provides step by step instructionson her post to get the look for yourself.

  

In some areas, you may be able to go to a drive in movie theater. If you don't have one nearby, you can set one up yourself! All you need is a white sheet and a projector, plus some throw blankets and pillows to sit on. This movie night from Level Events is stunning, but you can have just as great of a time with something simpler.

  

At this point it is safe in many places to meet with a small gathering of people (assuming you all have been following social distancing guidelines). It is best to meet in open air places and either wear your mask or maintain 6 feet of separating. A book club meeting in the park with a few friends is a perfect activity for these guidelines. It will get you out of the house and some social interaction without too much risk.

  

You can do this anywhere, but you'll probably get better results if you are further from the light pollution of most cities and major suburbs. The SkyView app will help you identify constellations. Bonus: buy a telescope!

  

There's just something so refreshing about a frozen drink in the summer. If rosé isn't really your thing, try making frozen margaritas, or strawberry daiquiris, or pina coladas.

  

Ideally find a place that is remote enough that you can safely avoid other people, or a place that is cool enough that you can comfortably wear a mask. Hiking is a great activity to get some exercise, see some nice views, and explore the area you live in.

  

If you live near a body of water, there is probably a place to rent a kayak or a paddleboard for a couple hours. Both of these are fun activities, and once you are on the water you can easily avoid others and go mask free.

  

Whether you live in a big city or a small town, there is probably some interesting history about your town that you don't know.  Alternatively, you could take a short drive to a nearby town and explore a place you haven't been before. Grab your mask, some water and snacks and enjoy! Many towns have free walking tours available for download.