Fun Things To Do Outside In Your Backyard

Looking for fun things to do outside in your backyard? Look no further! APG&E has you covered!

Depending on where you are located you could be enjoying weather in the 70s or the 90s. Before the summer heat drives us all to shelter indoors take some time to enjoy your own backyard oasis! 

Our list of fun things to do in your backyard!

1. Build a backyard fire pit to cook hotdogs and s'mores on!

For the more advance DIYers check out this great article, 'How to Build a Fire Pit' from thisoldhouse.com. For those of you who would like something ready made, look no further than your local Lowes or Home Depot. There is just something magical about the sound of a crackling fire. Be sure all of your embers are extinguished when you are done. Smokey the Bear is always watching -- he cares about your backyard too! 

2. Enjoy some backyard camping.

Pitch a tent or sleep in the great outdoors in a sleeping bag. To help make the ground more comfortable consider placing an exercise mat under your sleeping bag or even using a blow up mattress. For those pesky bugs be sure to have plenty of bug spray. Those containing DEET are found to be more effective in deterring bugs and helping to fight Zika. For those that would like to try a more natural route there are many ideas around natural repellents. This fresh herb bundle is said to help repel mosquitoes. Let us know if it works for you.

3. Create a scavenger hunt for your kids.

These scavenger hunts can be as simple or extravagant as you want. If the weather turns bad you can even adapt for an indoor hunt. Tip: If your hunt involves gathering items make sure that it also includes returning them to their rightful place. Cleanup will get less arguments if it is part of the game. The most memorable moments are created from the heart, so enjoy time with family and create memories with the ones you love!

4. Build an outdoor movie theatre.

In an hour or less you could be enjoying a big screen movie in your own backyard. Try showing classics like The Goonies, Troop Beverly Hills, or The Wizard of Oz.  Don't forget the popcorn and drinks. 

5. Run through the sprinklers or build your own slip and slide.

Enjoy Lonnie Johnson's (an actual NASA Scientist!) gift to all 80 and 90's kids, the Super Soaker, which is still available today and just as fun. Tip: Be careful when you first turn on the water hose and let it run until cool water is flowing. Any water that has been sitting in the hose has been boiling in the sun and could cause massive burning. 

For ideas specific to the 4th of July take a look at our previous blog post, Last Minute Fourth of July Party Hacks & Firework Safety. Do you have additional ideas for backyard fun, we would love to hear about them. Head on over to our Facebook page and let us know!