31 Things to Do in August Before the Summer Ends

August is an interesting time. It’s mentally one of the mid-months of what we might move into the next season, but in many ways we’re not ready to finish summer. Many people are on vacation this month. This means that your hometown or city may be completely empty. Before you despair, remember: this is a good thing! There’s still a lot to do in August to take advantage of the quietness before the fall storm begins.

August can be a private moment that will give you a taste of the last long day of summer. The bucket list of things to do in August is tasty and lazy (yes, I’m actually telling you to sleep). Because even if you graduate ten years ago or a long time, the return season is when we all clean at a busy pace. August is our last chance to relax a little about how we approach each day. It is recommended to take a nap in the sun when possible. Walk whenever you’re on a whim and let all your meals go outside.

Things to do in August

After all, despite the sometimes unbearable heat, summer is a season to taste. I always wish I could really lean towards this time of year and stop time for a moment. And while I love the cozy season and fully embrace it when the air is crisp, I have learned to make the most of every moment I have. Summer won’t last forever, so read up on ideas that will help you make the most of what’s left.

Keep scrolling through 31 in August. Our bucket list has ideas to keep you inspired each and every month. Get ready to enjoy every minute.

August 1st-4th

1. This month’s plan. What’s better than a bit of life mapping? From the beginning of this year, we will be pulling out the vision board and checking in for the middle term. Celebrate your victory, look back at what no longer resonates, and plot some new goals you might want to gain later.

2. Accept the new wellness ritual. We asked our favourite female fitness founders to share the routines and practices they try their best. Steal their advice.

3. Design your dream backyard. Whether you have a vast space or deck out a small balcony for two (hello, me).

4. Meet friends for coffee and a walk. As I got older I learned how much I love catching up to coffee and getting into our steps. Trust me: It’s much more fun than screaming in a crowded bar.

August 5th-11th

5. Upgrade your afternoon snacks. Remember that every part of your life can benefit from a bit of romanticization. Your PM snacks are also included. I’m obsessed with these high protein snacks and you know I have this spicy corn toast over and over again.

6. Speed clean. I love setting the alarm for 45 minutes, throwing the laundry into the laundry and seeing how successful I can be.

7. Make a mid-week cake. Just because! This strawberry cake with mascarpone cream takes a few steps, but trust me: it’s not easy. I’m also hooked on this strawberry crumble olive oil cake. Desserts, snacks, breakfast…

8. Send me a postcard from a friend. I like to keep my card and postcard stockpile handy. This way, you can send sweet notes to friends and family whenever desire strikes you. Write sweet and simple notes. That makes a lot of sense.

9. Start asking better questions. I’ll leave these 250 I’ll never ask here. They are So fun.

10. Take part in a road trip. It’s Saturday, so let’s go somewhere! I live in Chicago and love choosing a small town within an hour’s drive to spend a few hours. Drink coffee, have lunch, go shopping and enjoy the charm of a quiet, sleepy suburban area.

11. Let me sleep. You deserve it! Every weekend (being a habit can seriously ruin your sleep cycle, but nothing is more luxurious than spending a few extra hours and waking up refreshed. Bonus points when you put your coffee back in bed.

August 12th-18th

12. Do one thing that scares you. Send texts, book a trip, or take the leap. This is not to be reckless or scare yourself just for that reason. Rather, it encourages you to do what you’ve been postponing, and you’ll feel Very good Once you do it.

13. Do one thing that makes you feel even more comfortable. Reward yourself with comfortable, attractive activities as you have done something to drive you out of your comfort zone. On my list? I read the evening with my cat, cooked my favorite dinner and spent the afternoon working in the pool.

14. Embracing the Italian summer path. As the season ends, there is never a better time than making the most of these fleeting sunny days. Get a copy of my new favorite coffee table book: Il Dolce Far Niente. The page is filled with gorgeous photos of Italy’s southern coast. It is known for its fashion and lifestyle. Expect to get inspired.

15. Create a playlist for the end of summer. I had us Casa Zuma Playlist As I’ll repeat this from June, you can customize it to your liking. Accept the etheric, magical atmosphere that feels like it exists during this period. (Sufjan Stevens, Jungle and Dominic Fike are my current favorites.)

16. Invite friends to an improvised dinner party. I’ll serve snacks and order them. Or make up these quick, crowd-pleasing chicken fajitas and have a friend bring some wine. Remember: The goal of a gathering is to enjoy the beautiful and wonderful people of your life. So don’t stress it!

17. I’m going to real estate sales shopping. There are plenty of treasures to sell under radar. For all you need to know, please refer to our Real Estate Sales Shopping Guide.

18. Go back to school shopping. Yes, even if you graduate a few years ago. It’s more fun than having a cute pencil and pen, a new planner and perhaps even some additions to your vision board.

August 19th-25th

19. Make fruit popsicles. There’s no sweet and simple treat to make your child feel like he’s soaked up for the last few days of summer. Our Easy Mango Lassi popsicles are perfect.

20. Book a new workout class. Challenge yourself to explore different forms of fitness with the spirit of trying something new. If you’re a spinning girly, try our strength training classes. If you’re a Valerzin Key, check out yoga. You can move your body in a new way and perhaps even pick up a few friends along the way!

21. I’ll go for a walk after dinner. It’s great for digestion and is great to go out and do with family and friends. I’ve made it a habit for many years – it makes me feel So Europe.

twenty two. Please call mom. I know it’s on your list (yes, because it’s mine too). It’s the easiest mood boost.

twenty three. Start your weekend with a new summer cocktail. These are our favorite warm weather cocktails. (Or try these non-alcoholic spritz. This is summer in glass.)

24. Start planning your autumn capsule wardrobe. It’s still hot and you probably won’t wear a sweater for a month and a half, but you can start looking for Pinterest for inspiration, put together your beloved pieces and create a room in your closet to invest in some new items.

twenty five. I’m going for a swim. I’ve been mostly about it in the last few years in 2024, but it reached the end of summer and I realized I haven’t jumped into the waters yet. If that’s you, I’ll take it as an excuse to jump into the lake, pool, and sea this Sunday –Anything. And if you already have it, do it again. Swimming is a lifelong joy.

August 26th-31st

26. Revamp your morning routine. The return to school season has appeared on us, and times like the ones we have now, we don’t have time to consider how we want to switch between AM rituals. Try these 26 ideas that prioritize energy and productivity, or inspire Kamille’s own morning routine.

27. Make a positive bottle. Write a positive affirmation on a piece of paper and cut it into small slips. Gently raise them up badly and place them in the jar. Every morning, bring out new affirmations that remind you of how trusted and capable you are.

28. Declutter. Spring isn’t the only place where you can benefit from a clean slate. Start identifying things you rarely use and consider whether to keep them or enjoy a clear space. Steal a comprehensive guide to organizing your home.

29. Have lunch outside. If you’re still feeling guilty about squeezing your salad into your mouth on the keyboard, then beat it. These intentional lunch ideas will help you make the most of your lunch time.

30. Looking back on that month. What worked? Have you ever been surprised? Were there any goals you couldn’t prioritize? Spend an hour of journaling about the month behind you and ask yourself how you want to go in September.

31. I’m going to the Farmers Market. Enjoy the last produce at the end of summer! Whip these simple grilled peaches, chic summer fruit salads, or lemon raspberry cakes for Labor Day parties.

This post was last updated on August 1, 2025 to include new insights.