7 Book Lover Activities for Summer Solstice

Happy summer solstice! It’s the first official day of summer and we’ve got seven bookish ways to kick it off.

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Get your sunglasses, sunscreen, and swimsuits ready: It’s finally summer! The summer solstice is the official first day. Today also happens to be the longest day of the year. Though, that’s a bit misleading. There aren’t any more hours in the day, we just get to see the sun for longer than any other day. This is because the north pole is at its maximum tilt toward the sun. However, this doesn’t make it the hottest day of the year which means we can get outside (or stay inside if that’s your ideal setting) and make the most of the long day. If you’re wondering what you could possibly do outside as a book-lover, look no further. These seven activities will feed your bookish tendencies.

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Have a book-to-movie adaptation marathon

I know I said outdoor activities, but this might be an exception. Unless you have a projector you can bring outside or access to a backyard theater, you can stay inside for this one. Maybe crack a window? Anyway, a movie marathon of your favorite book series turned movie series works great for the summer solstice. The longer sunlight hours mean the day will feel longer and give you the energy to get through as many movies as you can.

Write! Make poetry, stories, or a diary

Let the rustling leaves become the song of summer. The rays of the sun settle on soft skin covered in the smell of wildflowers and the summer breeze. Get inspired by the feelings of summer and write it all down. Whether it’s creative writing or simply writing down what you did last week, it’s a great way to express yourself and spend time on this beautiful solstice.

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Create a summer book list

There are so many new book releases set for summer 2022, you’d have no trouble adding a few to your summer TBR. Update your already existing list or start new with a summer theme. If you need a place to start, check out Bookstr’s endless recommendations here.

Throw an outdoor book character-themed party

Imagine it: you’ve got book-themed snacks, drinks, and decorations. Your friends show up dressed like Edward from Twilight, Dumbledore, and Katniss Everdeen. Arya Stark is over at the snack table pouring drinks for everyone. Frodo Baggins is DJing. These characters could definitely get down.

Start a book club with friends – or strangers

Take the people from your party and organize a book club with them. Chances are, you’ll find it easy to come up with a book to read between each meeting with ease. However, not everyone has a big enough group of friends for that (myself included) so we can turn to online book clubs. You can simply read along with a group like Reese Witherspoon’s book club or the Netflix book club – just head to their sites to see what they’re currently reading. If a more discussion-based club is more your style, check your local library or Facebook groups for book clubs in your area.

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Read at the beach, by the pool, or at a park

Set up your towel or picnic blanket or even hang up your hammock and get comfortable. The soothing sounds of the beach, the poolside chatter, and the chirping birds at the park create a white noise background to help you focus on your book. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!

Attend a bookish event

There are always bookish events going on. Whether it’s literary fests, book sales, readings, or book writing classes. Check out events on Facebook or do a quick search for upcoming events near you. You’ll be surprised to find how many other people want to gather to discuss their recent favorite novels.

Whether you decide to stay in or spend time in nature today, you’ll find there are endless bookish things to do. Enjoy the sun and have a happy solstice!

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