Have you given any thought to where you will be visiting over the next few months or what types of events you'll be planning to attend? From Saturday mornings at the farmers market to evening car cruise-ins at the best ice cream shop in town, there are so many fun ways to enjoy and celebrate our independently-owned businesses. Here are a few of our favorite suggestions.
• Why not round up the family and head out to the drive-in movie theater? If you are lucky enough to still have one in your area this is a perfect outdoor evening of fun!
• Planning backyard upgrades? Select a family-owned landscaping company, or map out some DIY projects with an independent nursery or garden center. (or you could just go online and click through screen after screen of photos from a big box store, order the materials which can be then delivered by an anonymous trucking company....)
• Spend the day at a water park, sports complex, or amusement park.
• Take turns with different family members being the person to "plan a picnic" day. Order subs ahead of time for easy pick-up the next morning or hit up the local farmer's market for fresh vegetables and fruits to prep for a busy weekend.
• Get a babysitter and explore your downtown after-dark scene. Ask neighbors and friends for suggestions for a "parents evening out" or invite them with you to an outdoor dining and entertainment venue.
• Rent a boat, fishing poles, kayaks or paddle boats at a nearby resort, lake or river.
• Don't forget the ice cream! With July being National Ice Cream month it's the perfect time to search online for area "ice cream trail" info or maps to nearby dairy farms.
• Now it's your turn; what do you enjoy most during the summer months? Where does your group of friends like to hang out or what special day trips are good for families to plan? Visit our Facebook page to share your tips at Go Independent, Shop Small (Anywhere USA).
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