The Real Chic Life

Although it’s still technically summer until late September, Labor Day marks the unofficial end of the season. And Labor Day weekend is an opportunity to pause and reset or celebrate summer with one last hurrah. Whether you’re staying close to home or heading out for a little getaway, there are plenty of simple and joyful ways to make the most of it. Here are 10 fun and easy ideas to celebrate the long weekend:

1. Take a Mini Road Trip

A long weekend is the perfect excuse to explore a town or attraction within a couple of hours’ drive. Whether it’s a small beach town, a mountain trail, or a charming downtown area, a quick road trip can feel like a refreshing mini-vacation without the stress of a full travel itinerary.

2. Plan a Pool (or Backyard Water) Day

If you’re lucky enough to have access to a pool, enjoy one last summer splash. No pool? Get creative with sprinklers, a slip ‘n slide, or even a cute inflatable pool. I’ve gotten a lot of use out of this simple splash pad with my kids. Pair your pool day with summer mocktails or cocktails, and you’ll feel like you’re on holiday.

3. Create a Movie Marathon at Home

Sometimes, the best weekends are the cozy ones at home. Put together a themed movie marathon—summer blockbusters, nostalgic classics, or even a mini-series binge. Add popcorn, cozy blankets, and maybe a DIY ice cream sundae bar to make it extra festive.

4. Support Local Events & Festivals

Many cities host concerts, art fairs, or food festivals over Labor Day weekend. Eventbrite, Meetup, social media and your city’s event calendar are all great ways to find out what’s happening nearby. Spend a few hours soaking up live music, unique eats, or outdoor markets. It’s a great way to connect with your community while enjoying something new.

5. Try a New Outdoor Activity

From paddleboarding to hiking, biking trails, or even just a long scenic walk, outdoor activities are a fun way to say goodbye to summer. You’ll get fresh air, movement, and maybe even discover a new favorite hobby. The Alltrails app is great for finding scenic walks and trails for every fitness level.

6. Host a Game Night

Gather friends or family for an evening of board games, card games, or trivia. Keep it casual with snacks and drinks, or go big with themed prizes. It’s a low-cost way to create big laughs and memories. My favorite (adults only) game is Cards Against Humanity but Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is a fun game to play with kids.

7. Refresh Your Space for Fall

If you’re in the mood for something productive, use the extra day to transition your home for the new season. Swap out summer decor for cozier textures (we’ve got tips here), organize a closet, or add a few autumn candles— I have my favorite spiced pumpkin latte candle ready and waiting. You’ll head into September feeling refreshed and ready.

8. Cook (or Bake) Something Seasonal

Celebrate the flavors of late summer by cooking with seasonal ingredients—think grilled corn, fresh peaches, or zucchini bread. You could even try baking an early fall treat, like apple crisp, to get in the cozy spirit or make s’mores (which bridge the gap between summer and fall perfectly).

9. Host a Backyard BBQ or Picnic

Nothing says Labor Day like a good old-fashioned cookout. Fire up the grill, set out a colorful spread of salads, fresh fruit, and refreshing drinks, and invite family or neighbors over. Here are 31 amazing summer recipes if you need inspo. Don’t feel like hosting? You could also head to a local park with a blanket and finger foods for a laid-back picnic vibe.

10. End with a Sunset Moment

Close out the weekend by grabbing a blanket, heading to a favorite outdoor spot (or even your porch), and watching the sunset. It’s a grounding way to reflect on the summer and set intentions for the season ahead.

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The long weekend doesn’t need to be complicated to be memorable. Whether you’re traveling or staying home, it’s all about slowing down, enjoying simple pleasures, and making space for connection and rest. And in that spirit I hope your weekend is the perfect send-off to summer and a joyful welcome to fall.

Xo, Courtney