It’s official ~ summer is here! On June 21, people around the world are celebrating the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere. Always interested in global celebrations, I researched it to see how people are celebrating. From music festivals in Iceland, hikes in Greece, bonfires in Austria and dancing around a MayPole (that one surprised me) in Sweden, the celebrations seemed to be geared to their locations with the most famous at Stonehenge where people are singing, dancing, meditating and waiting for the sunrise!
Here in California we have the luxury of celebrating the many natural wonders of our area throughout the summer. Of course, the beach comes to mind so here are some thoughts for ways to take your summer celebrations to the next level. First start with planning ~ think of all the things that say “summer” to you.
My list incudes:
- Beach Balls ~ this inexpensive addition adds fun to any beach decor. ~ the mini ones can be used in a centerpiece, the larger ones float in a pool or even used in a “makeshift” volleyball game. We even used hundreds of them once for an entrance to the party.
- Sand Pails ~ sand pails can be really fun centerpieces filled with sunflowers
- Surfboards ~ you can probably pick one up at Last Chance or maybe even Craigs List. Attach a chalkboard with your menu.
- Beach towels ~ can be used for table runners
- Popsicles ~ inexpensive popsicle kits are everywhere and you can make something fun like a margarita popsicle or any number of “cocktail” or “mocktail” flavors
- Bar-B-Que ~ Adding an interactive element makes any party more interesting. Maybe it is as easy as a blind bar-b-que sauce tasting. Recently, at Whole Foods, I was amazed to see all the different types of Bar-B-Que sauce!
- Music ~ don’t forget to curate a playlist that speaks summer. Of course Beach Boys come to mind (I know, my generation) but there are so many good tunes out there to kick up the energy!
