How to Re-create 5 Sunny Summer Occasions While Social Distancing

Published on Aug 7, 2020 at 3:00 AM

In a year as dramatic as 2020 has been, it's fair to say we're all craving a little bit of normalcy. The vacations, weddings, and parties that once filled our summer schedules have all been cancelled — and it's only natural to feel like 2020 might as well be cancelled.

Social distancing doesn't have to upend all of your summer plans, though; if you're willing to think outside the box, you can still squeeze in plenty of outdoor fun, either by yourself, with others in your household, or with friends you can stay a safe social distance away from. Here's how to re-create five fun summer occasions with social distancing in mind.

Pool Party

On a scorching summer afternoon, nothing sounds better than taking a dip — but this year, swimming in a public pool or water park seems a bit risky. If you don't have a built-in backyard pool, you're not out of luck: just invest in an inflatable version. It's just as fun as those over-the-top floaties you see all over Instagram and only requires a few feet of space.

Summer Brunch

Here's the good news about hosting your own brunch at home: there's no need to pay extra for fancy brunch cocktails! Whether you whip up some elaborate french toast recipe or order takeout from a local cafe, you deserve to treat yourself to a fun drink. Add muddled mint leaves and a splash of watermelon juice to Smirnoff Zero Sugar Infusions Watermelon and Mint and soda water for a summery cocktail. Since this vodka has zero added sugar and zero carbs, you can feel good about sipping it with brunch.

Backyard Barbecue

Missing those low-key neighborhood barbecues? You can still socialize with your crew this summer — with a few extra safety precautions, of course. Invite your friends or neighbors to gather six-feet apart in someone's backyard or a public park. Everyone can bring their own lawn chairs and barbecue dinner while enjoying a warm summer night and good conversation.

Rooftop Drinks

Making the spur-of-the-moment decision to hit up your favorite rooftop bar with friends might not be possible this summer, but you can re-create your favorite fancy cocktails at home. Set out a variety of fresh herbs, seasonal fruit, flavored seltzers, and all three flavors of Smirnoff Zero Sugar Infusions for a DIY bartending station. You can unleash your inner mixologist on all kinds of different flavor combinations, or keep it simple by topping off your favorite flavor of Smirnoff Zero Sugar Infusions with soda water and ice.

Campfire Cookout

There is one way to get the camping experience without checking into a campground or even pitching a tent: roasting marshmallows! A backyard fire pit or outdoor grill will work beautifully. In a pinch, you can even roast marshmallows over the flame of a gas stovetop. The smoky-sweet flavor of golden brown 'mallows screams summer.