John Burke, Reporter
Graphic by John Burke
With summer coming just around the corner, students are ready to pack away their backpacks in their closets and replace them with beach towels. After a long stressful school year summer is the perfect time to put that all behind you and relax. But for some kids after that first week or two of jubilant excitement, it dies off being replaced with hours and hours of scrolling on your phone. So to make sure that doesn’t happen this year I’ve come up with five of the best activities to make this summer one that you’ll remember forever.
- Take a beach day
Nothing screams summer more than a day at the beach with your friends . Kids tanning, laughing while playing sports, eating mouth-watering food, and swimming in the ocean. There’s something to do there for everyone, whether you’re one to peacefully sunbathe or frolic in the sand. Not to mention, we’re lucky enough to live only a short drive away from some of the best beaches in Connecticut. Compo Beach in Westport and Short Beach in Stratford are, in my opinion, some of the best spots in the area and are perfect to enjoy the sun!

- Movie night with friends and family

Inviting friends over for a movie night is a classic way to spend a summer night. While this does involve a device it’s not the kind of mindless scrolling we’re trying to avoid. Instead, it’s about sharing laughs and creating memories. You can even take it up a notch if you wish by setting up a projector outside and watching under the stars. Or if your looking to stay away from the pesky flies outside, you can always go to the movie theatre in town.
- Go for a walk or hike
Just like Connecticut’s stunning beaches, they are also full of scenic trails and nature walks. Some of my personal favorites include the Norwalk River Valley Trail and Devil’s Den in Weston. Whether it’s with friends, family, or by yourself it is a great way to reduce stress levels(hopefully not very high), get exercise, and boost your mood. It’s also a good break from being glued to your phone and rotting on your bed all summer long.

- Go to a fair or festival
Summer is jam-packed with local events like farmers markets, music festivals, and carnivals. These events are the perfect way to get outside and socialize with a large group of people. On top of that, let’s not forget the food that is offered at these places. Funnel cake, caramel apples, and deep-fried Oreos are just some of my favorite choices when getting a sweet treat. Some of the most popular festivals in the area include the Milford Oyster Festival and the Durham Fair which both offer tons of things to do there.
- Try something new
Summer is the best time to step out of your comfort zone and try something that you’ve always wanted to do but maybe didn’t necessarily have the time to do so during the school year. After all, you might even discover a new hobby that sticks with you beyond the summer.
In the end, no matter what you choose to do, make sure this summer isn’t wasted behind your phone. Take advantage of the warm weather, long days, and greatly deserved reprieve from homework. Get outside, hang out with friends, make memories, and most importantly have fun.
