Summer’s Splendor

Artown is almost here! With more than 500 multi-disciplinary events, including children’s art workshops, concert series, movies in the park, historic and cultural tours, art exhibits, and more, in over 100 locations, this iconic festival celebrates the arts and community, and there’s truly something for everyone. As you plan the events you’d like to attend, be sure to grab Artown’s Little Book for 2024 (downloadable pdf version here). This valuable resource is packed with great information about the arts, artists, venues, and dates and times of the various events.

Summer has undoubtedly arrived, and while many dream of jet-setting to far-off places, there’s a growing trend towards staycations—vacations that happen right at home. A staycation offers all the relaxation and fun of a traditional vacation without the stress of travel, and it’s perfect for creating unforgettable memories without leaving your doorstep. Here are seven fantastic staycation ideas that will make your summer at home feel like a grand adventure.

Transform your backyard into a tropical paradise with just a few simple touches. Start with a comfortable seating area complete with cozy cushions and throw blankets. Add a few potted plants or hang fairy lights to set the mood. A small kiddie pool or a DIY slip-n-slide can provide hours of fun for kids and adults alike. For a touch of luxury, consider renting a projector and hosting an outdoor movie night under the stars.

Pro Tip: Set up a tiki bar with summer cocktails and mocktails. Try blending your favorite fruits into refreshing smoothies to enjoy while you lounge in the sun.

Travel the world from your kitchen by hosting an international food festival. Choose a different country or region each day and cook a meal inspired by its cuisine. You can make it a fun learning experience by researching the cultural significance of each dish. If you have friends or family from different cultural backgrounds, invite them to share recipes and stories about their culinary traditions.

Pro Tip: Turn this into a friendly competition by having each family member or guest prepare a dish from a chosen country. Vote for the best dish and award the winner with a small prize.

Turn your home into a serene spa retreat for a day of ultimate relaxation. Start with a homemade facial using natural ingredients like honey and oatmeal. Follow up with a soothing bubble bath infused with essential oils and rose petals. Give yourself a manicure and pedicure, or better yet, trade services with a family member or friend for a professional touch.

Pro Tip: Create a calming ambiance with soft music, candles, and dim lighting. Don’t forget to prepare a refreshing cucumber water to sip throughout the day.

Who says camping is only for the great outdoors? Set up a tent in your living room or backyard and enjoy the joys of camping without the bugs. Tell ghost stories, roast marshmallows, and stargaze through a telescope or an app. This is a fantastic way to bond with your family while indulging in some nostalgic fun.

Pro Tip: Prepare a camping-themed menu with hot dogs, baked beans, and s’mores. Use your grill or a portable camping stove to make the experience feel authentic.

Pick a theme or genre and organize a movie marathon. Whether it’s classic Hollywood, superhero sagas, or a journey through a favorite director’s works, a movie marathon can be a cozy and entertaining way to spend the day. Make it extra special by creating a snack bar with popcorn, nachos, and your favorite movie candies.

Pro Tip: Dress up in costumes related to your movie theme. It adds an extra layer of fun and can make for some great photo ops.

Use your staycation to tackle those home improvement projects you’ve been putting off. It could be as simple as rearranging your furniture or as ambitious as painting a room. Engaging in a creative project can be incredibly satisfying and gives you a fresh, new space to enjoy.

Pro Tip: Document your renovation journey with before-and-after photos. It’s rewarding to see the transformation and can inspire future projects.

Turn a spare room or a corner of your home into a temporary art studio. Gather supplies for painting, drawing, or crafting, and spend your staycation unleashing your creativity. You can follow online tutorials or let your imagination guide you. This is a great way to de-stress and produce something beautiful.

Pro Tip: Host a virtual art show with friends and family to showcase your creations. It’s a wonderful way to connect and share your passion with others.

A staycation can be just as fulfilling and exciting as any traditional vacation, especially when you put a bit of thought into planning unique activities. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore new cuisines, or indulge in a bit of home improvement, these seven staycation ideas offer something for everyone. So, put on your vacation mindset, and enjoy a summer of unforgettable experiences right at home!

Planning a backyard get-together and want to wow your guests with some delightful al fresco dishes? Here are some of our faves:

1. Grilled Vegetable Platter

Ingredients:

• 2 zucchinis, sliced
• 1 eggplant, sliced
• 2 red bell peppers, cut into strips
• 1 red onion, sliced into rings
• 8 oz mushrooms, halved
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill vegetables for 5-7 minutes per side or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Arrange on a platter and garnish with fresh basil.

2. Caprese Skewers

Ingredients:

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 1 ball fresh mozzarella, cubed
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze

Instructions:

1. Thread tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil onto small skewers.
2. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

3. Watermelon Feta Salad

Ingredients:

• 4 cups watermelon, cubed
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine watermelon, feta, and mint.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice, and toss gently to combine.

4. Grilled Shrimp Tacos

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• Small corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinate shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt for 15 minutes.
2. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
3. Serve shrimp in tortillas topped with cabbage, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro.

5. Berry Fruit Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1 cup blackberries
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Fresh mint for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine all berries.
2. Drizzle with honey and lemon juice, and toss gently.
3. Garnish with fresh mint.

6. Herb Butter Grilled Corn

Ingredients:

• 6 ears of corn, husked
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine butter, herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread herb butter over corn.
3. Grill corn over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and lightly charred.

7. Peach and Prosciutto Crostini

Ingredients:

• 1 baguette, sliced
• 3 peaches, sliced
• 4 oz prosciutto
• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze

Instructions:

1. Toast baguette slices on the grill until golden.
2. Spread ricotta on each slice, top with a peach slice and prosciutto.
3. Garnish with basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Tucked away just north of Reno, Nevada, lies the charming community of Cold Springs. Known for its serene landscapes, family-friendly atmosphere, and tight-knit community spirit, Cold Springs offers a refreshing, more rural contrast to the hustle and bustle of Reno. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a young family looking for a welcoming neighborhood, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, Cold Springs has something to offer everyone. Click here to read more about this wonderful community.