Summertime and the livin' is pretty darn good

What’s the recipe for a perfect summer?

Living in a great town like Hinsdale that no longer faces COVID-19 restrictions. As of tomorrow, that will be us.

So today, even though summer doesn’t officially arrive until June 20, we’re celebrating the top 10 things that will make for a perfect summer in Hinsdale.

10. A dip in the pool

Hinsdale is lucky to boast a community pool among its amenities. In addition to being a great place to cool off, the pool is home to swimming and diving lessons, a junior lifeguard program, swim team practices and special events. With temps forecast in the upper 80s this weekend, it will be the place to be.

9. The return of live theater

Young actors were ecstatic to perform “Emma” last weekend at The Community House, and the cast of “Honk” is getting ready to open its show tomorrow night. Kudos to Stage Door Fine Arts for getting kids and teens back on stage and family and friends back in the audience.

8. The farmers market

Whether residents are interested in anything from sweet berries to tasty vegetables to homemade preserves, they can find them at the Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce Farmers Market from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Monday through Oct. 25.

7. Finding a bargain

Summer isn’t just the peak of garage sale season. It’s also time for the Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce annual sidewalk sale. The dates this year are Friday and Saturday, July 23 and 24.

6. Al fresco dining

Implemented last summer as a way to keep struggling restaurants afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic, outdoor dining has become a favorite activity in downtown Hinsdale. We’re happy to see it’s back this year. We really like the new barricade covers, too!

5. Hot lunch dates

Speaking of dining al fresco, the parks and recreation department is bringing back its summer classic, Lunch on the Lawn. Super Stolie will entertain on June 16, with Scribble Monster: The Eco Show coming to town on July 14 and Dan Gogh’s Magic and Art Show wrapping things up on Aug. 4.

4. Summer reading clubs

The Hinsdale Public Library did an amazing job of connecting readers with books during the pandemic. But we are so happy the library is back open, meaning this year’s summer reading club members can peruse the stacks — instead of a screen — to choose their next title.

3. Cinema under the stars

Parks and rec once again will sponsor three Friday night movies, starting at dusk in Robbins Park. Shows are “Dolittle” on June 11, “Elf” on July 26 and “The Wizard of Oz” on Aug. 23. Just bring a blanket or lawn chair. They’ll even supply the popcorn!

2. Live music

Uniquely Thursdays is back, starting with a performance by the Millennials June 24. Just about every genre of music will be covered by the time Semple Band closes the series with its version of 70s rock to modern pop on Aug. 26.

1. Independence Day Parade

One of the most wonderful days to be in Hinsdale is the Fourth of July. Last year, COVID-19 prevented the annual parade from taking place. While this year’s version might look a little different, we are sure all will be happy to have this hometown tradition return.

Happy summer, Hinsdale!