Each year as August slips away into September, the end-of-summer blues hit me hard.
Don’t get me wrong, September is actually my favorite month — but I find myself mourning beach days, sunny hikes, long evenings, late-night ice cream walks, warm breezes and farmstand berries.
My list of summer activities feels never-ending. And by the time fall rolls around, I’ve only ever crossed off a small portion of them. Oh well, I tell myself. More for next year! But still, the mournfulness persists.
Maybe it’s the air or the specific shade of green tinging the grass. Or the birds that greet me with song each morning on my run. Or the violet and fuchsia sunsets I get to see from my porch.
So consider this my farewell to summer, my ode of appreciation to the season of feeling young and free, with nature as my backyard and my best friend.
As we usher in autumn, I know there is so much to look towards with excitement. But for now, let’s savor these final warm days while we can.
Kick off Labor Day weekend by strolling through downtown Concord on First Friday, this month with the theme Kids Nite Out. From 4-8 p.m. There will be yoga, sidewalk chalk, lawn games, a youth entrepreneurial market, crafts, live music, food trucks and more. It’s the perfect time to stroll the streets, shop at the stores open late, grab a bite to eat and enjoy the warmth while it lasts.
The Hopkinton State Fair returns this weekend with livestock shows, carnival rides, loads of food, vendors and activities. Head to the fairgrounds on Thursday (5-10 p.m.), Friday, Saturday and Sunday (8 a.m. – 11 p.m.) and Monday (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.). “Explore our rich history, discover local artisans, and enjoy a variety of attractions for all ages, including world-famous performances by Disc Dogs,” the fair promises. “Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan, the Hopkinton State Fair offers something for everyone.”
The Horsenecks are playing at Blasty Bough Brewing Company in Epsom on Saturday evening from 7 p.m. onwards. Stop by, grab a drink and enjoy some “hard-hitting and heartfelt Old Time and classic bluegrass music, from Astoria, Oregon.”
Here are some other long weekend ideas:
- Hike Mt. Kearsarge and stop by Cafe One East in Warner for a sandwich and a coffee
- Drive Ocean Boulevard and stop by one of the Seacoast beaches for a picnic
- Stroll the Concord Farmer’s Market on Saturday morning and grab breakfast downtown
- Read a book, do an outdoor craft, go for a swim in Lake Sunapee, take a nap, enjoy the sunshine
Savor every second of summer left!
