We all have a list of memories we want to make within our lifetime. It’s always the question, “What if today was your last day on Earth?” that brings us a realization with a full dose of FOMO. Your summer bucket list will have you making the most of your summer. Whether you’re looking to attend more events, learn something new, or take some time to yourself, creating meaningful experiences is the goal.
The Purpose of Your Summer Bucket List
The things you put on this list aren’t supposed to be dreadful chores or pre planned dates like weddings and birthdays. When crafting up your ideas and activities, keep the following things in mind.
- Maximizing Free Time: summers provide a break from regular routines for busy families and students.
- Creating Memories: encourage yourself to be engaged in memorable activities.
- Achieving Goals: there isn’t much out there that is more motivating than checking things off a list.
- Building Anticipation: having something to look forward to and be excited about.
- Encouraging Exploration: don’t be shy when adding activities that are a little out of your “comfort zone”.
Adventure and Travel
Seeking a thrill or two this summer? Go ahead and schedule some time off from work and prep for a much-needed adventure. Explore new places and cities, travel to a whole different country, or stick to a summer vacation ritual. Your summer bucket list is meant to push you slightly out of your comfort zone and give you experiences you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Plan to go on a road trip, visit and national park, or plan a beach day with your bffs! Join travel communities hosted by Black women and follow Black travel influencers on social media. Don’t feel like your travels and adventures have to be tropical, on a beach or up in the mountains. Nor do they need to be a set length of days, some adventures can be done in one day.
The events are fun, but it’s also vital to acknowledge the historical and cultural importance. When organizing things to do, think about places and activities with fascinating and meaningful backgrounds like the Black Hair Experience in Atlanta. You could also explore historical sites and museums that honor our shared history. Seek out places where you can engage with the community and enjoy Black art, music, and food.
Concerts and Festivals
No summer is complete without attending at least one major event. Each year, more and more festivals come to town to celebrate black and multicultural heritage. A vibrant and enriching experience to say the least. This summer is filled with all different kinds of events. From being front row at a concert to exploring more of your heritage at festivals, having it on your summer bucket list will make you feel empowered and encouraged for each day.
Grab your girlfriends, your dog, your boo, or attend an event by yourself. Maybe use it as an excuse to pamper yourself, because looking good is feeling good. Get yourself some fun new accessories or whole new outfit for the events. But, make sure you hit up one of these before the summer is over.
- Together Again Tour with Janet Jackson and Nelly – June to July 30
- Insano World Tour with Kid Cudi, Pusha T, Jaden, and Earthgang – June 28 to August 30
- Summerfest in Milwaukee Wisconsin with Lil Uzi Vert, Illenium, AJR, Lil Yachty and over 900 more artists
- Broccoli City Festival in Washington D.C., with Megan Thee Stallion, Lil Yachty, and Victoria Monet – July 27-28
- Outside Lands Music Festival in San Francisco with Tyler, the Creator, The Killers, Teddy Swims, Grace Jones, and Post Malone – August 9-11
- ESSENCE Fest in New Orleans with the most influential leaders and artists. Previous guests were Beyoncé, Magic Johnson, and Aretha Franklin
- Fool in Love Festival in Los Angeles with Lionel Richie, Diana Ross, Santana, Gladys Knight, and Smokey Robinson – August 31 only.
Level Up and Learn Something New
Working on your own personal growth is a total vibe this summer. There are unlimited skills you can work towards mastering over the course of a few summer months. Here are a few ideas for you to get started on.
- Take a dance class and learn new styles like Afrobeat, Dancehall, or Salsa
- Join a ceramics or crochet class and get hands-on. Display your artwork at home for some quality self-expression
- Replace your Snapchat streaks with Duolingo streaks and become fluent in another language
- Give yourself a personal challenge like running a 5k or minimizing screen time
Books for Baddies
There is nothing better than relaxing on the beach or somewhere in your own bubble and not being bothered! Having a good reading book with you as an accessory is a whole new level of Boss Mode. Pick up at least one of these following top-selling books and make sure to get to the last page before the summer ends!
- “Girl With No Job: The Crazy Beautiful Life of an Instagram Thirst Monster” by Claudia Oshry. This is a humorous and insightful look at pop culture and social media stardom from the popular Instagram influencer.
- dddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd”I Did A New Thing” by Tabitha Brown. A self-help book by the viral social media sensation and best-selling author herself. She encourages you to embrace positive change through consistency.
- “Leslie F*cking Jones” by Leslie Jones. Such a funny memoir that tackles life, love, and academics with wit and humor.
- “The Unicorn Delusion: How To Kill Your Inner Basic B.” by G.L. Lambert. A relatable guide to overcoming mediocrity and embracing your true potential, offering tough love and practical advice for personal growth and success.
- “What We Not Finna Do” by Erin McLaughlin. Another super funny and candid exploration of modern relationships. The book highlights common pitfalls and offers bomb advice on navigating love and life.
- “Slay In Your Lane: The Black Girl Bible” by Yomi Adegoke. Pretty much everything you want and need to hear from a successful Black Woman who has been there and done that.