By late August, you can almost feel summer beginning to wind down. The days are still warm, but sunset arrives a little earlier and evenings often give us a welcome break from the afternoon heat. It’s a great time to take dinner outside with a sunset picnic.
There’s no need to make it complicated. Pack sandwiches, fruit, cold drinks, or even your favorite takeout, grab a blanket or a couple of lawn chairs, and find a comfortable outdoor spot. Your own backyard works perfectly, or you can visit a local park or another public green space where evening access is permitted.
Try arriving an hour or so before sunset. That gives everyone time to eat, play a card game, toss a ball around, or simply relax before watching the sky begin to change. Late-summer sunsets can put on quite a show, especially when scattered clouds catch the orange, pink, and purple evening light.
If you have kids along, make the evening a little more interesting by having everyone predict what time the sun will disappear or vote for the best cloud shape. Bring binoculars and you might also spot birds becoming active as temperatures cool.
August evenings still require a little preparation. Bring insect repellent, plenty of water, and a flashlight in case you’re packing up after dark. If you’re visiting a park, check its closing time before settling in.
Summer goes quickly in Northeast Ohio. A sunset picnic is an easy way to slow things down and enjoy one of those warm Bedford evenings while they’re still here.
