Thursday, December 30, 2010 - Blog on a Log

5 Ways To Celebrate Your Last Summer Weekend

For most of us, the September long weekend marks the end of summer.  Kids go back to school, air conditioners wind down, and we may even pull out a blanket for those cool fall nights.  But before we turn our attentions to cold-weather pursuits, the holiday weekend is a great excuse to let loose and celebrate summer one last time:

See what your city has to offer
If you can't escape to the great outdoors this weekend, try checking out the events in your local community.  Though you certainly won't be alone, chances are there's something fun worth looking into.  A trip to the zoo, picnic in a local park, or summertime festival are a great way to celebrate.  We always tell ourselves we're going to get out way more than we manage each summer, so take this opportunity to make the most of local events and opportunities.

Hang out around a campfire
It's the perfect transitional activity - hanging around a bonfire feels decidedly summer, but the warmth will keep you toasty on these cooler evenings.  Try spicing up your normal campfire s'mores by adding a new twist on an old favourite - use nutella or piece of caramilk bar instead of chocolate, or a chocolate-dipped digestive cookie instead of graham cracker.

Go for a paddle
You don't have to stop paddling just because it's getting colder.  Or at least, not till the water freezes (and maybe not even then?) but nothing quite beats a sunny summer paddle with a quick dip in the lake to cool off.  The long weekend is the perfect time to plan a day-trip or quick over-nighter, leaving still enough weekend left over to partake in other ventures

Road trip!
Something about the fall months always gets my feet itching to be on the move.  Satisfy your wanderlust by spending a few days on the road partaking in that great North American pastime, the Road Trip.  Some snacks, some tunes, and you're on your way.  Can't think of anywhere to head to? Canada's so beautiful, you could probably point at a map and end up with a good locale, but you can try this list of The Best Road Trip Destinations In Canada too.

Do nothing
Sometimes the best part of summer is having the time to relax.  If the onset of fall means an upswing in stress, consider spending your last free weekend taking it easy.  Un-plug, relax, and unwind.  Head for the great outdoors, or set up a tent in your own backyard for a bit of the outdoors right at home (with no need to organize cooking and full access to indoor plumbing).  Read one more book off the list you were "sure" you'd tackle by the end of the summer, sleep till noon while you still can, or go for a walk and feel the seasons start to change.  Try not checking your email, and turning off your phone.  Everyone else is escaping this weekend too - chances are you'll get away with it.

Photo via Joel Bedford