August bucket list: 13 tiny ways to slow down when the months seem to fly by too fast

This bucket list is here to help you soak up the last of the season’s late-setting sun and warmth before welcoming the quieter shift toward fall. While I’ll admit I’m partial to crisp sweater-weather, there is a particular sweetness to these final summer days. It's an almost urgent need to hold onto the light; likely a feeling left over from childhood summer breaks, but it makes it no less fun.

Below, you’ll find 13 things to do in August—small prompts to keep you present and inspired. Try not to pack your schedule too tightly. The whole point is to slow down and enjoy August before the summer disappears.

1. Pickle your own veggies: I suggest going out and buying local/growing your own. Try carrots, cauliflower, cucumbers, beets, onions, or garlic—these all work beautifully, you’d be surprised how many different kinds of veggies you can pickle. The process itself is easy, typically requiring nothing more than water, vinegar, sugar, and a little bit of seasoning. A quick search online will yield many recipes.

2. Try a new farmer's market or shop for local produce: If there isn't one near you, or it's only open on days you can't make it, look for plant or egg stands in your area, or check whether your natural grocer or regular grocery store carries local produce. Local produce ripens on the plant rather than in transit, which means better flavor, more nutrients, and a smaller environmental footprint—plus, it supports the farmers in your community.

   
   

3. Try a new workout class, workshop, or online exercise video: Summer is typically packed with activity, but looking ahead at the fall season, consider establishing a new routine. Look at your local yoga studios for any upcoming workshops. Maybe a friend (or your massage therapist!) has been encouraging you to try a yin yoga or yoga nidra class. Or roll out a mat in your living room and follow along with a YouTube instructor. All you need is enough floor space for your body and a phone or computer. New movements can be as good for the mind as they are for the body.

   
   

4. Bake with fresh berries: Late summer is peak harvest season for blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries. If you go picking, you may come home with more than you need. Try making pancakes, bake them into a cake or muffins, or try your hand at strawberry bread.

   
   

5. Read a sci-fi, fantasy, or speculative fiction book: Pick an old classic that's always been on your TBR but you never got around to, or browse new releases. Check your local library or try Libby, the free library audiobook app. If you prefer a physical book, your local used bookstore or indie shop is a great place to start, the staff will often have recommendations ready. Summer is the perfect time to read something mind-bending and weird.

   
   

6. Have a full screen-free day: This should really be on your monthly, or even weekly to-do list, but not everyone has a job or life that allows them a little space from their phone. But can you do one day in August? Staying off-screen can help you stay present in the moment, ground you in reality and help you recalibrate your thoughts and feelings, away from endless scrolling or e-mail/notification checking.

   
   

7. Watch the sunset distraction-free: As summer winds down, the sun begins to set earlier. Before fall obligations and cooler days steal the warmth, find a spot where you can watch the sunset. Try enjoying the full experience without a phone to distract you. Don't take a picture of it. Just watch.

   
   

8. Camp, sleep under the stars, or take a nap in the sun: There is so much joy in experiencing the outdoors in the summertime. Listening to bugs, feeling nature move around you, watching the sky change colors, the stars come out. Immerse yourself in nature, let yourself relax in her presence.

   
   

9. Finish a DIY craft, upcycling, or household project you've been putting off: Sometimes summer starts with the best of intentions. The list of things you want to accomplish might grow, but by the end, the number of things you actually check off might shrink. That's okay. Look around your house for a task you've been avoiding—something that will either bring you joy or simply lift a small weight off your mind once it's done. Then do it.

   
   

10. Offer to help someone who needs it: Babysit, drop off meals, run errands, donate clothes or money, pick up litter, plant trees in public spaces, hold elevators, let someone pass in traffic, leave a generous, unexpected tip; express appreciation and practice kindness, just because.

    
    

11. Savor a slow evening: Cook an elaborate dinner, light candles, eat outdoors, play cards, listen to music. Try it distraction-free. Enjoy the company of others or even just yourself. Appreciate your life in the present moment.

    
    

12. Make an ice cream drink: Yes, National Ice Cream Day is in July, but it's summer and we should still enjoy summery treats. Some ideas: root beer float, orange creamsicle, boston cooler, brown cow, pb & j float, cherry bomb, or pineapple islander.

    
    

13. Bake or cook with zucchini: If you're celebrating the abundance of berries, you can also celebrate the abundance of the squash family. If you've ever baked with zucchini, you know how rich in moisture they are and they make the perfect muffins or bread.