Can you believe it? The last days of summer are here, and it feels like it flew by in the blink of an eye. All those hot, sunny afternoons and long evenings are starting to fade, making way for cooler breezes and hints of fall. But before we get all cozy with pumpkin spice everything, let’s take a minute to appreciate the final moments of summer.
Squeezing in That Last Ice Cream Run
There’s something about summer in Illinois that just begs for ice cream. Whether you’re grabbing a cone from your favorite local spot or hitting up the soft-serve truck, now is the time to squeeze in one last trip for a cool treat. There’s nothing like standing in line, feeling the late summer sun on your face, and trying to decide between a classic vanilla twist or something more adventurous (cookie dough, anyone?).
Soon enough, we’ll be trading in ice cream for hot cocoa, so savor that last scoop while you can!
You can make your own ice cream at home with custom flavors! Here are some books to check out to satisfy that sweet tooth.
- Ice Cream Adventures: More then 100 Deliciously Different Recipes by Stef Ferrari
- Vegan Ice Cream: Over 90 Sinfully Delicious Dairy-Free Delights by Jeff Rodgers
- Mexican Ice Cream: Beloved Recipes and Stories by Fany Gerson
Beach Days and Backyard BBQs
Sure, the water might be getting a little cooler, but you can still take a quick trip to enjoy a laid-back beach day in Chicago, or take a walk along the shoreline. Those final dips in the lake are extra special now, knowing that in just a few weeks, the beach will be a ghost town until next summer.
And backyard BBQs? This is the time for one final grill session. Fire up the grill, invite over some friends, and make the most of the long weekend vibes. Before you know it, we’ll all be indoors, craving soups and stews instead of burgers and brats.
Here are a few reads to have your best BBQ ever!
- Book of Real Guuud Barbeque by the BBQ Pit Boys
- Korean BBQ: Master Your Grill in Seven Sauces by Bill Kim
- Chiles and Smoke: BBQ, Grilling, and Other Fire-Friendly Recipes with Spice and Flavor by Brad Prose
- How to Grill Everything: Simple Recipes for Great Flame-Cooked Food by Mark Bittman
Transition Weather = The Best of Both Worlds
One of the coolest things about late summer in Illinois is that it’s like the perfect blend of two seasons. Mornings can be a little chilly, giving you a taste of the fall ahead, but by afternoon, it’s warm enough to soak up some sun. It’s that sweet spot where you can still rock your favorite sundress or shorts, but you might start reaching for a light hoodie in the evenings.
This transition period is the best for outdoor activities. Go for a bike ride, take a hike, or just lounge in the park with a good book—it’s not too hot and not too cold, it’s just right. And the sunsets? Still just as beautiful as ever, lighting up the sky with those stunning summer colors.
Here are some outdoor activities you may enjoy as the weather gets cooler.
- Run for Your Life by Mark Cucuzzella
- Complete Bike Book by Chris Sidwells
- Hiking and Backpacking by Karen Berger
- Epic Hikes of the Americas: Explore the Americas’ Most Thrilling Treks and Trails by Lonely Planet
Farmers’ Markets and Fresh Produce
Another thing we’ll miss about summer is the abundance of fresh, local produce. Illinois is home to so many great farmers’ markets, and they’re still in full swing! Right now, it’s peak season for sweet corn, tomatoes, and melons. These late summer goodies are worth stocking up on before we transition into all things apple and squash.
Make a trip to your local farmers’ market while it’s still bursting with color and flavor. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the tail end of the season while supporting local farmers. Plus, nothing beats the taste of corn on the cob fresh off the grill.
- Cooking from the Farmers’ Market by Williams Sonoma
- The Farmers’ Market Book: Growing Food, Cultivating Community by Jennifer Meta Robinson
- The Farmers’ Market Guide to Fruit: Selecting, Preparing, and Cooking by Jenni Fleetwood
Bring on Autumn!
The end of summer always feels bittersweet. There’s something nostalgic about those last days—like a chapter closing on carefree afternoons, late-night bonfires, and spontaneous road trips. But it’s also exciting to think about what’s next. As we pack away our flip-flops and sunscreen, we can start looking forward to all the fun things autumn brings (hello, sweaters and fall festivals!).
So, soak up these last few weeks of warm weather, get outside, and make the most of the end of summer in Illinois. Whether it’s grabbing that final ice cream cone, hitting up a beach day, or hosting one last BBQ, make it count.
Goodbye, summer—we’ll miss you! 🌞
If you have any questions, contact the DKPL reference desk at [email protected] or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150.