In the past, creating a good old-fashioned summer bucket list was the perfect excuse to get out, discover new events, and intentionally enjoy the season. This year, I want to do it again. It’s all about finding small, simple ways to maximize the good stuff, create sweet memories, and ensure that when September hits, I actually have a great answer to, "So, what’d you do this summer?" If you’re looking to build your own, here is exactly what is on my list this year. But I have a feeling the moments that will actually stick might not even be on the list. They’re the random Friday nights.
1. Vacation in Your Own City
We often save the best parts of our own hometowns for out-of-town guests, but there is something incredibly luxurious about intentionally spending a weekend exploring right where you live. This season, I am fully leaning into playing tourist, starting with a night at the theater to see The Great Gatsby musical. Years ago, I dressed up for a Gatsby-themed party, and this Broadway production pulls off the theme better than any film adaptation could.
You can expect beautiful 1920s costumes and amazing sets! It was a shimmering Art Deco spectacle in an opulent, roaring ’20s celebration with massive, synchronized tap-dancing numbers and a brassy, jazz-infused score that makes you feel like an actual guest at the party. So of course I wore shimmering clothing!
To keep the hometown exploration going, I'm also planning another late-night adventure to wander the museums during the Smithsonian Solstice celebration again.
2. Experience Big-Screen Magic & Outdoor Concerts
Nothing says summer quite like live music drifting through the warm night air. My calendar is officially marked for the Yards Park Friday Night Concert Series, and I am so ready for those feel-good throwback hits. There is truly nothing better than finding a spot on the lawn, taking in those breezy waterfront views, and settling in for a relaxing evening.
The ideal plan involves packing a picnic blanket, grabbing takeout from a favorite local spot, and sipping refreshing drinks as the sun goes down. It’s the ultimate excuse to lay back, lounge by the water, and just enjoy the weekend.
Of course, balancing the outdoor heat is key, so I’m also planning an escape from the humidity with a 10:00 AM trip to an air-conditioned theater to catch the brand-new Star Wars movie The Mandalorian and Grogu either in 3D since I went to Star Wars at Hollywood Studios in April. What's great about the movie is that it's a doorway for newcomers to enjoy the universe without knowing the back history to understand what is going on. Grogu has major character development, he's no longer a baby!
3. Experience Classical Music Reimagined: Hip-Hop Meets the Full Orchestra
I am completely leaning into the trend of modern hip-hop backed by full symphonies right now. As a former violin player, hearing massive beats reimagined with that kind of orchestral scale and depth is unmatched, it’s the ultimate mix of an elevated night out and heavy, high-energy music.
I actually have two separate events locked into my calendar that nail this exact vibe:
The Rick Ross Port of Miami Orchestra Tour: Hearing his massive, bass-heavy tracks completely reimagined with the grandeur and scale of a live orchestra is going to be an absolute core memory. Check out his home tour on Architectural Digest! I was impressed with his sauna
Orchestra Noir: I am catching a tour stop for this world-class Black orchestra. They effortlessly blend classical precision with hip-hop and contemporary culture, creating a concert experience that is entirely celebratory, high-energy, and fresh. Everyone in the audience was standing up dancing having a good time. And the Warner Theater sells pear margaritas, what?!
4. Lean Into the Non-Negotiable Pool Days
Some things are on the list simply because summer wouldn’t feel complete without them. For me, that means returning to the summer routines I look forward to every year. My calendar is already set for plenty of dedicated, book-in-hand pool time, alongside my regular rooftop aqua aerobics classes. Being in the water while watching the sunset over the skyline is the ultimate way to spend an evening. I have two mystery books I'm reading right now:
5. Lean Into Iconic Traditions
You can’t have a true mid-summer list without a nod to the classics. For me, that means finding the absolute perfect vantage point to watch the 4th of July Fireworks light up the sky. This year it will be 30 minutes long to celebrate America's 250th Anniversary!
6. End the Season with a Laugh
To wrap up the season on a high note, I’m planning a night out to catch former SNL cast member Jay Pharoah perform a comedy show. His show is a masterclass in physical comedy and genius imitation, relying on clever storytelling and spot-on impressions rather than shock value or messy personal drama. Seeing his charismatic, high-energy talent in an intimate room genuinely feels like a special event and the perfect way to close out a spectacular couple of months.
7. Maintain the Movement: Summer Fitness Shifts
Last summer, my yoga teacher took a two-month sabbatical, so I made it a goal to try her substitute’s class every single week she was there. This summer, my Zumba teacher is taking a month off, so I’m keeping the momentum going by visiting another Zumba class for the month. Then my gym added more weeknight zumba classes so I can take it more times per week! It's scientifically proven that dancing helps you keep agile not only physically but also mentally. I'm also adding in more lunchtime yoga this summer and doing a peloton pilates challenge! Yoga trains your balance by standing on one leg and keeps your joints flexible.8. The Summer Fragrance Edit
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