Here are 15 things you can do in July to make it a good mix of fun, productive, and healthy.
Congrats, readers! You’ve made it to the half-year mark.
July is here, and as always, it comes bearing some summery and colorful gifts.
While this month is notorious for being super hot, it’s also the perfect opportunity for you to rest and recharge.
The schools are shut, tourist spots are bustling, and everyone you know is making exciting plans.
For me, it’s a special month because of my bestie’s birthday, and because it starts raining in my country (we call it monsoon).
Up until last year, July wasn’t an exceptional month for me. It just meant too much heat and I couldn’t wait for it to pass.
But this time, because of my ‘make the best of it’ mindset, I’m approaching every season and month with a sense of wonder and joy.
And July, let me tell you, can be a really beautiful month, if you want it to be.
With that in mind, I’ve put together a list of 15 fantastic things to do in July.
Whether you’re looking to relax, get active, or try something new, these ideas will help you make the most of this wonderful month.
So, lean back, smile, and get ready to dive into all the amazing things July has to offer.
15 Things To Do In July
1. Reset Your Goals
I know nothing can replace the excitement of setting new year goals, but it’s happy half new year time!
This occasion might not be acknowledged worldwide, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give it the importance its due.
Six months ago, you must have set some goals and resolutions that you’re not actively working on anymore.
Take some time to see how your desires and motivation has changed during this time.
Reset goals that are still calling out to you, and set new ones while being realistic in your vision.
Avoid the mistakes that you made chasing your goals the first time, and give yourself the coming six months to shine the way you want to.
Anything and everything is possible, as long as you keep trying.
Related post: Ultimate Life Reset Checklist – 30 Tips To Reset Your Life
2. Grow A Small Nursery
If you have a garden, backyard, or even a balcony, then why not grow a small nursery there?
This would give you a project to work on during the long summer days and also make you more responsible.
Get started with a herb, a small tree, and two flower plants. I recommend basil, cherry tomato, sunflower, and marigold.
Spend your free hours educating yourself on your chosen plants and then care for them during the required hours.
And don’t treat this as an obligation. Gardening is best enjoyed when done with love, patience, and gentleness.
So, make sure you spend some quality time in this space. You’ll love every second of it.
3. Set Up An Outdoor Reading Space
Summer is the season when people go hard after their reading goals.
Those who have been in a reading slump find their way back to the world of books.
No matter what your reading status is, everyone should have a go-to spot that prompts them to read and recharge.
Create an outdoor reading corner for yourself on your balcony, patio, or rooftop.
Use a recliner, swing, hammock, comfy chair, and decorate it with leaves and fairy lights.
Add cushions, a light throw, and a small table for your drinks. I’d also keep a small potted plant for a cool ambiance.
Tada! Your summer reading spot is ready. Time to get binging.
4. Celebrate The 4th Of July
For my lovely American readers, this list would be incomplete without the 4th of July celebrations.
Get together with your friends and family to mark the independence day.
Join the festive parades, and host a BBQ with all the classic American favorites – burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, and lemonade.
As the day turns to evening, find a good spot to watch the fireworks.
And oh, don’t forget to dress in red, white, and blue. Let your patriotic spirit be visible for all to see.
5. Start A New Journal
I don’t know about you, but I can’t have the same journal throughout the year.
I need my current journal to display my current themes of life, and for that reason, I start a new journal in July.
You can do the same, unless you love the one you have right now and would actually prefer to keep it till the next year. Would make total sense.
But if you don’t have a journal at all, then July would be a good month to get started.
Often, people are confused about what to write about in a journal.
But if you do it now, you could make your first entry about your summer plans, or make a summer bucket list to tick off before the end of the season.
The more you write, the more words and ideas will flow naturally.
And you don’t have to be an artsy person for this.
The main goal here is to have a safe space to be yourself and pour all your goals and fears into.
Stick with it, and journaling will soon become a cherished part of your routine.
6. Make Healthy Cold Beverages
Swap out those sugary sodas for refreshing and healthy alternatives.
Iced herbal teas, fruit-infused water, homemade smoothies — there is so much to pick from!
Experiment with combinations like cucumber-mint water, berry smoothies with a hint of spinach, and citrus peach tea.
These kinds of drinks will keep you hydrated (which can’t be said for sodas for sure), and your gut will love you for it.
Keep a big pitcher in the fridge so you always have a tasty and healthy drink on hand.
7. Cook Dinner With A Loved One
Team up with your partner, family member, or friend to cook a proper dinner. Then, take it outside to enjoy under the evening sky.
There’s something magical about dining outdoors in summer. Sharing the experience with a loved one makes it even better.
Go for something that you and your cooking partner love, or maybe try something new?
For dessert, go for something refreshing like homemade sorbet or some fresh fruit.
In my country, mango is a classic summer fruit and I love having it after dinner.
Related: 15 Amazing Things To Do At Night (That Don’t Involve Sleep)
8. Celebrate Ice Cream Day
Did you know there’s a whole day dedicated to ice cream? It’s the third Sunday in July.
Mark your calendar and make this day all about ice creams and popsicles.
Try a new local ice cream shop with a friend or make some at home.
You could even have a little ice cream party at your home.
Experiment with unique flavors like lavender honey, matcha, or salted caramel.
I know this isn’t something super popular, but doing new stuff like this is what makes life fun.
So, make the day count for your sake and give yourself a happy July day to look back on.
9. Buy Some Summer Clothes
Everyone deserves some new additions to their wardrobe in summer.
Go shopping on a July weekend and treat yourself to some new summer outfits.
Check out the local boutiques, as they are usually full of hidden gems.
Look for breezy dresses, comfy shorts, and colorful tops that scream your style.
Buy a wide-brimmed hat or some funky sunglasses to jazz up your look.
Refreshing your wardrobe can boost your mood and get you excited about the season.
Don’t miss: 5 Refreshing Ways To Become “That Girl” In Summer
10. Hit The Beach
Nothing says summer and July like a day at the beach.
If you live in a coastal area, then a beach day would be the ultimate summer escape for you.
Pack your sunscreen, a good book, some snacks, a cooler filled with cold drinks, and a portable speaker.
Then drive to the nearest beach. You can swim, build sandcastles, or just relax.
You could also bring along a frisbee or a volleyball for some fun physical activity.
End the day with a stroll along the shore as the sun sets.
11. Go On A Date Night
Who says date nights are only for new couples or Valentine’s day?
If you ask me, the longer you’ve been with someone, the more it is a cause to celebrate.
Pick a date in July, and plan a special night out with your partner.
You can go for a fancy dinner, or keep it casual by picking a cozy cafe.
Or, get creative and try something unique, like a drive-in movie theatre, a mini golf match, or a sunset walk. It’s the quality time that counts, really.
If you don’t have a partner, then go with your bestie.
And if you’re single and not looking to mingle, then go on a solo date, please. Yes, it’s a thing and no it doesn’t make you weird. Self-love all the way!
12. Get A Facial Or Cleanup
The sun can be really harsh during summer and your skin might need special attention to stay healthy.
Get a professional facial or cleanup to pamper your skin.
It’s a great way to rejuvenate your skin, especially after spending time in the sun.
Look for a spa that offers treatments suited to your skin type.
And hey, if you’d rather not splurge money in this direction, then DIY!
Pick up a high-quality face mask and lotions to give yourself a spa day at home.
A little self-care goes a long way in boosting your confidence.
13. Attend A Local Festival Or Class
Check out what’s happening in your area this month and sign yourself up for whatever excites you.
From food festivals to music events, there’s always something fun going on in July.
It’s a great way to experience local culture and have a blast by yourself or with a friend.
Craft fairs, farmer’s markets, and outdoor concerts are crazy popular during this time.
Recommended: 41 Interesting Things To Do Alone To Embrace Solitude
14. Go Hiking
Find a local trail, lace up your shoes, and get outside to enjoy hiking in the wilderness.
You’ll get a really get workout in and also get to spend some quality time in nature.
Pack some lunch in a picnic basket and bring along a camera to capture the scenery and all the birds you spot along the way.
And don’t forget to make use of the weather forecast to pick an ideal day. There shouldn’t be any rainy surprises or unbearable temperatures.
15. Explore A New Hobby
July is the perfect time to dive into a new hobby, and I’m not saying that just for the heck of it.
Think about it — Longer days, slow world, happy vibes all around.
There’s every reason to dip your feet into the world of hobbies and discover new passions.
Start painting with the help of YouTube tutorials, learn the basics of photography, or pick up a new instrument.
A new hobby will add more joy to your me-time and help you romanticize your summer days.
Make Your July Days Count
Did you know July was named after the infamous Julius Caesar? Apprently, it was the month he was born in.
Also, while it might be the hottest month for most of us, it is the second month of winter in the southern hemisphere.
Random facts aside, those were 15 tips on my end for making July a memorable month for you.
Try out everything that appeals to you, and have the best July ever this year!
Read next: 10 Beautiful Tips For The Ultimate Summer Glow Up
Got some July activities that you’d like me to try? The comment box is all yours!
Namantika Raj Singh says
What a delightful read! Your last post on hobbies is like a 15 tiers cake that I’ll be enjoying the whole summer & you came up with 15 toppings for it in your latest blog.
First of All, it’s wonderful to see that your website has reached to readers across the America. This speaks volumes about the quality and appeal of your content.
I can relate deeply to your emphasis on self-love. It’s a principle I hold close to my heart as well, and I believe it’s so crucial for overall well-being.
Well yess! One of my favorite activities is tending to my rooftop nursery. There’s something incredibly soothing about walking through the rows of blooming flowers and lush greenery every morning. The tranquility it brings sets a positive tone for my entire day. And Is that a Dahlia flower pic which you have shared here?
While I don’t live in a coastal area, I enjoyed the soothing sea breeze when I visited a beach near Pune in my childhood. Btw, that shared beach pic is cool!
Like you suggested, I embarked on a hiking trip that felt like a piece of heaven on Earth. The trail was surrounded by dense forests, with the sound of a distant waterfall accompanying my journey. Reaching the summit and gazing at the panoramic views was an experience that rejuvenated my spirit and reminded me of the simple joys of life. That made me realize that you can find solace in every form of nature.
I also wanted to thank you for the interesting fact about Julius Caesar’s relation with the origins of July. That little nugget of historical context made your writing stand out which even offered other readers a richer experience.
As you’ve asked from your readers in the end, I’d love to suggest 2 more activities that could make your July even more special.
1. Stargazing
With warm summer nights, July is perfect for laying out a blanket and watching the stars. It’s a peaceful activity that can also be enjoyed solo.
2. Farmer Market Visits
Exploring local farmer markets can be a delightful way to spend a weekend morning. I often visit these markets with my dad. You get Fresh produce, unadulterated homemade goods, and a chance to support local farmers that make it a win-win visit.
Thank you again for your wonderful blog and for inspiring me to make the most out of this beautiful month. Your suggestions have added more charm to my July 🙂
Akansha says
Hi, there!
I’m so happy to know that you liked this post. Appreciate every single word that you took time to type here.
It’s amazing that you’re already doing so many of the things that are mentioned in the post. I have no doubt that your July will be amazing because that’s what happens when one is willing to create moments and make their life enjoyable.
Stargazing sounds wonderful! And I don’t have a farmer’s market nearby at the moment, but it’s something I plan on doing as soon as I’m back to my city.
Thank you for everything you shared and suggested. As always, a pleasure hearing from you!