When I first wrote this post about my favorite summertime rituals, it was before we were dealing with COVID-19 and a worldwide pandemic. That said, what amazes me is that most of the rituals I listed here are things that are still possible to do, even during this crazy time.

I think the original list of my favorite summertime rituals says something about simplicity. It’s really true that life’s simple pleasures can bring us so much joy.

So, aside from the one ritual of watching the Philharmonic in the park, (which is normally a gathering of thousands of people), all of these rituals have withstood the test of time and a pandemic.

Keep reading for some ideas on how to enjoy the summer season.

Related: Life’s Simple Pleasures

Ah…Summertime!

Summer is by far my favorite season. It’s not just because of the long warm days where the light lingers in the sky for hours after sunset. I think it’s because the season has a carefree, ephemeral quality to it which makes me want to soak up every minute of it. That’s why I have my favorite summertime rituals. They remind me of how precious the season is and how important it is to appreciate the little things in life.

I want to share my favorite summertime rituals with you to inspire you to make the most of the season. You’ll notice that none of these rituals are grand gestures. They are simple pleasures, steeped in nostalgia. They have become a comfort to me. Every time I get to partake in one of these rituals, I feel pure joy. I hope that you have some rituals that make you feel the same way!

My Favorite Summertime Rituals:

1. Long walks on the beach
2. Outdoor showers, lots of outdoor showers!
3. Blackberry ice-cream (Oddly, a flavor I’ve only managed to find on Cape Cod)
4. Lots and lots of lobster
5. Philharmonic in the Park (Free outdoor concerts given by the NYC Philharmonic every year)
6. Rooftop Yoga Sessions
7. Barbeques in our garden
8. Watching the sunset
9. Bike rides in the countryside
10. Swimming, every chance I get!

Now I’d love to hear from you. What are your favorite summertime rituals? What are the little things that create a spark inside you and fill your heart with joy? Please share with me in the comments below.

I know that this summer is not the one any of us hoped or planned for. That said, I hope you can find pleasure in some of the simpler things that you can still do to celebrate this season, and I hope you can fill your days with lots of beautiful moments worth savoring for years to come.

And if you’re still looking to plan a summer trip, check out my travel guide for 5 easy summer weekend road trips from NYC.