As the golden days of summer linger, it’s time to savor every last detail the season offers. There’s something carefree about leaning into these final warm weeks, intentionally crafting moments that feel both joyful and restorative. If you, like me, want to keep summer shining just a little longer, here are five of my favorite ways to celebrate the season before it slips away.
First, I love getting lost in a good book. There’s nothing quite like grabbing a glass of Tinto de Verano and reading outdoors while the sunlight filters through the leaves. This summer, I’ve balanced intensity with playfulness: I’ve revisited the hauntingly atmospheric The Berlin Stories by Christopher Isherwood and devoured the delightfully romantic Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston. Whether you’re sunbathing in the park or curled up on a porch swing, summer reading is a tradition you shouldn’t skip.
Another ritual I cherish is picking fresh summer flowers. The season’s blooms are fleeting and especially vivid right now, so I love filling vases with wildflowers and radiant sunflowers. There’s a simple pleasure in gathering and arranging flowers—even a few picked on a morning walk can instantly lift your space and your spirits.
One of my most anticipated seasonal traditions is enjoying a movie outside. This year, celebrating the 50th anniversary of my favorite film, Mahogany, theaters from Harlem to Chicago’s Movies in the Parks have hosted special screenings. While dated (and a tad sexist), the film’s heart lies in Diana Ross’ story of empowerment, ambition, and boundless creativity (Diana designed all the costumes herself). Late summer is perfect for a backyard movie night: cue up a favorite, string some lights, and let the evening unfold under the stars.
No summer would be complete without great food. When my friend Nyla visited Chicago recently, we dined at the colorful Tanta—River North’s eclectic Peruvian restaurant. Their Lomo Saltado is extraordinary—a delicious tribute to Peru’s native flavors. And don’t miss their Papitas Tanta, a crispy twist on papas a la huancaína. Sharing a meal reminds me how joy, energy, and connection infuse a perfectly prepared dinner. If you’re local (or planning a visit), explore the menu at Tanta—you won’t regret it.
Finally, don’t forget to care for yourself, especially your skin. After a season exposed to sun, heat, and all the elements, our bodies need restoration. I’ve been indulging in my own smoothing sugar body scrub, full of all-natural, antioxidant-rich ingredients and the freshest essence of grapefruit. A gentle scrub, a few quiet minutes, and you’ll step into autumn refreshed and ready. Available here.
These simple pleasures are how I keep the spirit of the season alive, turning ordinary days into something memorable. However your endless summer unfolds, I hope you soak up these last moments as much as I do. Here’s to savoring every bit of sunshine—while it lasts.
Photos | Tanta/Kevin Roman
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