These Small Summer Moments Deserve Their Own Celebration This Year

Summer usually means celebrating in a big way: weddings, baby showers, blowout barbecues, graduations . . . but it doesn't have to be the Fourth of July to make the most of the season. Between the late sunsets, rising temps, and much-needed surge of vitamin D, the whole summer can feel like a party — as long as you celebrate the little moments of the season accordingly. From the first cocktails sipped al fresco to a party dedicated to the longest day of the year, we've rounded up a few key moments that deserve romanticizing this year, along with tips to make them feel like a party. (Even if you're hanging solo.)

The First Beach Day

Few things mark the start of summer (!!) like the first day it's actually warm enough to lie out on the sand. Depending on where exactly your beach is, this celebration could occur a few weekends before Memorial Day, or you may be planning to soak up some sun rays a bit closer to the Fourth of July. In celebration of getting to the beach for the very first time this season, start a collaborative playlist with whoever you'll be bringing with you, so you not only have tunes ready for the big day but also can get everyone excited for that first day out. Then, don't forget to bring a few snacks: sandwiches and subs will keep well in the cooler, and you can elevate them by whipping up some custom aioli, swapping tomatoes for roasted red peppers, or leaning into unique pickled veggies like radishes and carrots.

Al Fresco Cocktails

While we've learned how to stretch the al fresco dining season deep into fall, there's something celebratory in choosing to sit outdoors with a drink because the weather is finally cooperating. Keep this celebration impromptu by just including a friend or two, and plan it based on when the weather will still be balmy in the early evening. Then, mix a large-format cocktail with Smirnoff Pink Lemonade, a bit of watermelon juice, kombucha, and traditional lemonade, then garnish with fresh fruit. (You can use extra fruit for a light snack, too!) Take the drinks to your patio, porch, front step, fire escape . . . wherever your outdoor living room is. To make it feel special, put the screens away and enjoy the moment (and drinks) together.

The Longest Day of the Year

We're in no way saying you should forgo celebrating those big summer holidays, but make sure you mark June 21 on your calendar, too. This day packs three reasons to celebrate: it's the longest day of the year, the summer solstice, and the official first day of summer. This year, it falls on a Tuesday, so if you need to keep celebrations low-key, practice some Sun Salutations at sunrise or sunset. After work, you could plan for a picnic in the park with friends, and even make a list of a few summertime "bucket list" activities you want to experience before the weather gets chilly.

A Summer Rainstorm

This celebration should be as spontaneous as a summer rainstorm itself, so there's no need to get caught up in too many details. Here's the gist: rather than seeing those gray clouds rolling in as a damper on your day, make plans to get caught in the downpour and splash in a few puddles. If you can get a friend to tag along, all the better, but this is one "party" you can experience solo — as it's all about being present in the current moment. If getting wet is just not your thing, settle in on a covered porch or patio (or even by a window) with a book and watch it all come down.

A Sunset Party

Facts: summer sunsets just hit different. Maybe it's because they happen later in the day, or it could be because it's warm enough to enjoy them outside — no matter the reason, make it a point to celebrate that golden hour this season with a dedicated backyard party. Line up the festivities to correspond with an hour or so before the sunset, invite a handful of friends, and make the sunset the main event. To really capitalize on the vibes, match your drinks to the colors of the occasion, like with a Smirnoff Peach Palmer. Made with Smirnoff Peach Lemonade and a bit of sweetened iced tea and garnished with a lemon wheel, these cocktails look just as bright and bold as the setting sun.

Firing Up the Grill the First Time

Come Labor Day, we're all a little barbecued out — but that first time you empty charcoal into the grill? Well, that feels like nothing but summertime promise. Beyond just making sure you're ready for grilling season with clean tools and pans, pull together a list of must-try recipes in honor of the season. In order to elevate even simple cookout staples like burgers and hot dogs, try making your own specialty sauces and condiments, or even swap out American cheese for a fancy havarti or gouda. Of course, drinks grill-side are key to celebrating this yearly ritual, but keep it simple so you can focus on the eats. A bit of Smirnoff Peach Lemonade or Pink Lemonade over ice with a splash of soda will feel bold, summery, and totally uncomplicated.

Illustrations: Josephine Rais