How to Enjoy Your Outdoor Space Before Summer

Family and friends grilling and enjoying food at a BBQ.
  • Written on May 04, 2022 By Stanley Martin Homes

The dog days of summer are right around the corner. Before you know it, the temperature will creep way up, and the cool air conditioning will start calling your name. April and May are the perfect months to enjoy the comfortable outdoor breeze before saying farewell to spring. From tackling that outdoor project sitting on your to-do list to hosting a fun gathering on your fully-furnished back patio, we’re sharing a few fun ideas to enjoy your outdoor space and take advantage of the beautiful spring weather!

  • Host an Outdoor Movie Night: Spice up your family time by hosting an outdoor movie event in your very own backyard. Setting up for an outdoor movie viewing is simple. You’ll need a projector and a white sheet or plain wall for your screen. If you use a sheet, be sure to pull it tightlywhen hanging it up to smooth out any unwanted wrinkles. You can purchase a reliable projector online. Amp up the experience with a high-quality speaker or sound system that will spread the movie magic across your entire outdoor space. You never know; your neighbors may even join in the fun! If you want to go the extra mile, hang some string lights or bust out some cute cushions for seating. Amazon has some excellent inflatable seating options to consider.
  • Grow an Herb Garden: One of the best ways to jazz up a meal or drink is to add fresh herbs. With summer approaching, colorful recipes will be calling your name. Fresh herbs, such as parsley, dill, mint, basil or rosemary, can level up any dish and make your tastebuds sing. Forget running to the grocery store. Having your own herb garden offers the convenience of simply walking outside to pluck how much you need. Select a spot outdoors that gets plenty of sunlight when planting your herbs. Don’t forget to water your garden regularly, preferably in the morning, according to the wise words of Martha Stewart.
  • Host a BBQ: There’s nothing quite like a good old-fashioned barbecue to take advantage of the warm weather. If you’ve wanted to invite your neighbors over or host a little gathering with some friends, why not have a nice outdoor cookout? Make things easier on yourself by having everyone bring a side dish or dessert, and opt for disposable plates and utensils to avoid the cleanup.
  • Build a Fire Pit: The summer months may not be the most inviting time to sit around the fire, but we still have a few cool spring nights to enjoy s’mores and stories around the crackling flames. Or, consider planning ahead to prepare the perfect fire pit for fall. Lowes has a handy step-by-step guide on how to complete this fun DIY project in your own yard.
  • Camp in the Backyard: If you have little ones, they will love an incredible camping experience in their backyard. Set up your tent, and make it extra inviting with plenty of sleeping bags, comforters and their favorite stuffed animals. Roast hotdogs and marshmallows for the full camping experience, and play a few family-friendly games like Simon Says, Telephone and Tag, which require no extra equipment. Also, if it’s a clear night, you might have the chance to enjoy a little stargazing.

We hope these activities spark inspiration with ways you can enjoy your outdoor space during the final days of spring! At Stanley Martin Homes, we take pride in helping families find their dream homes equipped with beautiful yards with ample space to make the most of all seasons.