Here’s Every Single Warm Weather Thing You Need to Do Before Summer Ends
We may have graduated, but we still get that sinking feeling every time back-to-school season rolls around. Guess it’s because we know that school means fall and fall means surrendering all that we love to winter. Which is why we’re making the most of the warm weather while we can.
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Buy Groceries At Your Neighborhood Farmers’ Market
Then get creative cooking up what you find in season there.
See a Movie in the Park
It’s not too late. You can still see Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them at Jonquil Park, La La Land at Irving Park and Sing at Haas Park between now and August 23.
Go Backless
Get a tan/show off your tan in your favorite backless top or dress. It’s summer. (If you need something new, we love this little number from Modern Citizen.)
Chill Out with a Sweet Italian Ice
Preferably from Miko’s in Bucktown, Mario’s Italian Lemonade in Little Village or Annette’s in Lincoln Park.
Or a Sinful Snow Cone
Get thee to Punch House for a boozy version of the childhood treat.
And While You’re at It, Match Your Nails to That Frozen Treat
You. Need. This. Creamsicle. Mani. Now.
Go Fly a Kite
File this under “most delightful things ever.” Chicago Botanic Garden has its annual kite festival August 12 to 13.
Just Say SUP
We live on the fifth-largest freshwater lake in the world, and you’re not gonna even dip a toe in? If swimming just isn’t your thing, rent a stand-up paddleboard for $30 an hour at North Avenue Beach.
Find Your New Favorite Flick
Let’s face it, summer can bring brutal heat and torrential rain. When that happens, seek shelter at Music Box Theater. Preferably for a showing of Across the River, your new favorite rom-com (trust).
Visit the New Ace Hotel Before Any of Your Friends
Your friends are all, “The Robey is the best,” but that’s only because they haven’t yet been to City Mouse at Ace Hotel Chicago (or seen the hotel’s brand-new rooftop).
Catch 10 Short Plays by Women, for Women
Support your local girl (theater) gang at this four-day festival in Ravenswood (August 16 to 20).
Finally Check Out Summerdance
Our two favorite words in the English language combine at this free Thursday night series. Don’t be shy now.
Walk That Riverwalk
You haven’t yet strolled the new and improved and dotted-with-perfect-little-places-to-sit-and-eat Riverwalk? For shame. It’s got landscaping! And a City Winery!
Hit Chicago Jazz Fest
The perfect way to spend Labor Day weekend? In a folding chair, on Pritzker lawn, soaking up the sounds of Chicago Jazz Fest’s headliners (August 31 to September 3).
Scavenger Hunt at the Zoo
In case you’ve forgotten, scavenger hunts are easily the most fun thing in the world. So sign up for this one at Lincoln Park Zoo on August 25.
Coffee Talk at Plein Air Cafe
We will never stop loving this patio. And while you’re at it, here’s how to spend a perfect summer day in surrounding Hyde Park.
Try a Sun Salutation in the Actual Sun
Yeah, we thought beach yoga was strictly for L.A. and Miami, too. But Sun & Moon proves otherwise with daily classes at North Avenue Beach.
Belle & Sebastian at Chicago Theatre
Can’t do the crazy Lolla thing? Mellow out with indie crooners Belle & Sebastian at Chicago Theatre (August 16). Or, you know, there’s always Lady Gaga at Wrigley Field.
Decide Which Is Your Favorite Chicago Park
Does the boathouse at Humboldt Park have your heart? Or the quiet nature trails at Winnemac Park? Spend every Sunday afternoon until the weather turns deciding once and for all which reigns supreme. This is important.