Back-to-school time is bringing an end to long days at the beach, pool, or park, but that doesn’t mean you need to stop enjoying the outdoors. Late summer and early fall leave plenty of warm weather for al fresco entertainment, and you don’t have to leave home to have fun. Check out these creative ways to enjoy your backyard … even after the sun goes down!
Outdoor Movie Night. Bluetooth projectors make it easy to enjoy your favorite film under the stars, and you won’t have to pay concession stand prices for popcorn.
Backyard Campout. With rented camping gear, you can give your kids a “wilderness” experience without too much “wild.”
Lawn Games. Traditional backyard options include cornhole, croquet, or badminton, but boardgames on the patio are fun too.
Mini-Olympics. Who can hula hoop the longest? Walk farthest while carrying an egg on a spoon? Set the longest jump-roping streak? Set up a course and find out!
To round out your outdoor adventure, how about a classic campfire treat ... but without the campfire? These gooey, decadent s’mores brownies are a snap to make, and you don’t need a fire extinguisher.
S’mores Boxed Brownies
Servings: 9
Ingredients
1 boxed brownie mix
1 c. mini marshmallows
1 chocolate bar, broken into pieces
½ c. graham cracker crumbs
Preparation
Prepare and bake brownies according to package directions.
Sprinkle the mini marshmallows, chocolate, and graham cracker crumbs over the baked brownies.
Broil in the oven for two minutes, or until the marshmallows are toasted.
Enjoy!