Wacky Holidays to Celebrate This Summer
While the stretch between Memorial Day and Labor Day may seem light on big-name holidays, summer actually offers plenty of quirky, lesser-known celebrations to enjoy. This is our household’s Summer of Fun, so we’re planning small, simple festivities that focus on laughter and memories rather than presents or over-the-top decorations. Below are the playful holidays we’ll be incorporating into our family plans.
June 2 – National Go Barefoot Day
We’ll celebrate by sinking our feet into cool summer grass and hosting a Mommy-and-daughter toenail-painting party. Going barefoot is a small pleasure that feels like an instant summer ritual.
June 7 – National Chocolate Ice Cream Day
Chocolate ice cream on a warm afternoon needs no introduction. We’ll enjoy cones or bowls—and maybe try a fun twist like fried ice cream for a special treat.
June 10 – Iced Tea Day
A tall glass of iced tea is quintessential summer. We’ll start sun tea pitchers early and set out a variety of herbal and classic teas so the kids can choose their favorite flavors for personalized iced-tea cups.
July 10 – Teddy Bear Picnic Day
Pack a blanket and finger foods, bring your favorite teddy, and head outdoors. We tried this last year and the kids loved sharing a picnic with their stuffed friends.
July 17 – National Ice Cream Day
Yes—another ice cream holiday. This time we’ll make our own ice cream at home. It’s fun, surprisingly simple, and a great chance to sneak in a bit of hands-on science with the kids.
July 24 – Cousins’ Day
We’ve penciled in a day with extended family to celebrate the cousins. They already see each other often, but this gives everyone a chance to relax, play, and strengthen those family bonds.
July 27 – Take Your Plants for a Walk Day
This one is delightfully odd. We’ll pull a wagon of potted plants—spider plants, aloe, and the like—and stroll the neighborhood. Expect laughs and puzzled looks as we wave while our green companions get some fresh air.
July 29 – National Lasagna Day
Lasagna was a favorite meal growing up, and the thought of rich cheese and layered noodles still makes mouths water. We’ll celebrate with homemade lasagna and a relaxed family dinner.
August 3 – National Watermelon Day
Few fruits scream summer louder than watermelon. We’ll slice a juicy one for sharing and probably add a simple watermelon craft to the day’s fun.
August 10 – National S’Mores Day
Whether we roast marshmallows at a campsite, use a backyard fire pit, or make a gooey s’mores dip at home, this holiday calls for chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers—ideally with sticky fingers and laughter.
August 15 – National Relaxation Day
Break out the hammocks and lawn games. This day is intentionally low-key: read a book, lounge in the shade, and enjoy unstructured family time.
August 26 – National Dog Day
From a bath and a long walk to special treats and a backyard play session, we’ll make the day all about our canine family members. It’s a fun excuse to spoil the dog a little extra.
Labor Day
We’ll close out the season with a Labor Day picnic surrounded by friends and family. Good food, backyard games, and relaxed conversations will mark the end of our Summer of Fun.
The point of celebrating these lighthearted holidays is not to replace meaningful observances but to build shared memories. The little moments—silly, simple, and warm—are what kids are likely to remember long after the summer ends. Here’s to a summer filled with laughter, connection, and plenty of wacky holiday fun. May your family return to routine with a richer trove of memories by Labor Day.