Here are some suggestions from the Tartan staff for things you should not miss doing this summer:
Calling all movie nerds! Well, really anyone that enjoys a good flick, spending time with friends and family, being outside, and of course munching on popcorn.
McHenry Outdoor Theater, located at 1510 N Chapel Hill Rd, McHenry, IL 60051, will be opening for the season after Memorial Day. The Box Office opens at 6 p.m. and the cost to get in is $15 for adults and $10 for children.
There will be several events this season including “Bring Your Dog to the Movies,” “John Hughes Weekend,” and “Mean Girls Weekend.” There will also be “Reel Deal Pizza Meal,” “Project Popcorn,” and “Sunday Survival Kit.”
If you are one to get a little hungry while watching a movie, the concessions have got you covered. From soft pretzels to pizza, hot dogs to slushies, and candy. Oh, and you can’t forget the popcorn.
It can get a bit chilly some nights, so blankets and pillows may be good to have on hand. As well as a portable radio so you can listen to the movie, they are available at the theater, but there is a limited supply. The Outdoor Theater is a great way to enjoy the movies under the stars, while also watching the stars.
For more information about the outdoor and showtimes visit, https://www.goldenagecinemas.com/
— By Olivia Greenwald
Make This Summer About Your Health
Last summer, I made a decision that completely changed the way I experienced summer. I put my health first. Not just going to the gym once in a while, but prioritizing how I felt physically and mentally. I started eating cleaner, working out consistently, and getting sleep.
It was the best summer of my life. I felt stronger, more energized, and surprisingly, more connected to people around me. When you’re taking care of your body, your mind follows and suddenly, you’re showing up as a better version of yourself in every conversation, every challenge, every moment.
Summer is the ideal time to start. The weather makes it easy to get outside, fresh food is at its best, and long days give you time to focus on you. Whether it’s walking in the mornings, trying a new workout class, or just swapping out soda for water, start small and stay consistent.
— By Zac Cooper
Lake Geneva offers fun and sun
This summer, be sure to visit Geneva Lake and enjoy its beautiful beaches: Williams Bay Beach, Fontana Beach, and Riviera Beach. You can spend the day sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing by the water. While in town, take the opportunity to explore the charming towns around the lake, visit local gift shops, and enjoy views from spots along the shoreline.
The lakeshore path stretches over 20 miles, making each spot a little different. On the west side at Fontana Beach, stop by the gift shops in town, enjoy a coffee at the Coffee Mill, and treat yourself to a sweet treat at Blue Heaven Ice Cream.
If you head to Riviera Beach, take a stroll downtown Lake Geneva to discover more stores and gift shops for anything you might want. Explore the boutiques and stores like Pink Moon Bay, Clear Water Outdoors, and Moxie for unique and fun items.
While you’re in Williams Bay, consider having lunch at Pier 290. Afterward, visit the Lake Life Store for fun Lake Geneva gear and then enjoy some ice cream at Dip In the Bay.
* Fontana Municipal Beach; 1 Lake Shore Drive, Fontana; 262.275.6136
* Lake Geneva Riviera Beach; 812 Wrigley Drive, Lake Geneva; 262.248.3673 CityofLakeGeneva.com/beach
* Williams Bay Municipal Beach; 500 E. Geneva Street, Williams Bay; 262.245.2720
— By Karly Duber
Paint some pottery
Color Me Mine is a paint-your-own pottery franchise where guests can pick their own unique piece and make it their own with endless colors and creativity. Color Me Mine is a local 
activity at 40 N. Williams St. #J in Crystal Lake and open for everyone in the area, walk-ins are accepted. With hundreds of ceramic options to choose from, prices range from only $5 all the way to $35, keep in mind that the painter entry fee is only $8. Once painters are finished, your piece is left for about 7 days to be fired and glazed. I think everyone should give Color Me Mine a try because it is an affordable way to spend some time tapping into your creative side. Color Me Mine Crystal Lake also hosts events such as Ladies Night, BOGO Thursdays, Toddler Tuesdays, and event private birthday bookings! For more information, be sure to check out crystallake.colormemine.com.
— By Maddie Spencer
Pick up a bat and glove
One of my favorite things to do in the summer is playing baseball at the local park. All you need to do is to get together a group of friends, grab a baseball bat or wiffle ball bat, and grab a wiffle ball or baseball. I love playing different versions of baseball with friends, whether I’m playing the classic game of baseball or other games like batting practice and home run derbies. I’d strongly suggest playing baseball if you want to get active in the summer. It’s a lot of fun and most parks near Crystal Lake are open to use the baseball fields.
