Summersgiving Day
Imagine a sunlit afternoon where laughter fills the air, tables overflow with delicious dishes, and loved ones gather to celebrate togetherness. This is the essence of Summersgiving—a festive occasion that blends the warmth of summer with the gratitude of a traditional feast.
Position Summersgiving as the premium summer entertaining moment—drive sales of outdoor furniture, specialty foods, beverages, and entertaining supplies by framing it as the 'gratitude feast for warm weather.'
- 'Thanksgiving in July: Host the Ultimate Summer Feast' — feature menu planning, table styling, and hosting tips
- 'Summersgiving Entertaining Essentials' — curated product guides for outdoor seating, lighting, tableware, and beverage stations
- User-generated content campaign: #SummersggivingStories showcasing real family gatherings and gratitude moments
- Influencer partnerships with lifestyle/entertaining creators to normalize summer holiday entertaining as a premium social occasion
In 2009, Robert Solomon, an attorney from Norwood, New Jersey, came up with a fun idea. He loved Thanksgiving food but didn’t want to wait until fall to enjoy it. So, he hosted a summer barbecue and served dishes like roast turkey, stuffing, and cranberry martinis.
The warm weather, relaxed vibe, and holiday flavors made it a hit. Friends loved the idea, and soon, more people started joining in.
Years later, in 2018, Solomon met entrepreneur Eva Shure while flying. He mentioned his summertime feast, and she saw real potential.
She felt others would enjoy celebrating gratitude in the sun just as much. They teamed up and created a website to share the concept with more people. The goal was to make it easy for anyone to join the fun.
By 2019, Summersgiving became official. They chose the Saturday after the summer solstice as the perfect day. That time of year brings long daylight hours and sunny skies—just right for an outdoor meal with friends and family.
Since then, the celebration has gained popularity. People across the country gather during summer to share food, laugh, and give thanks in a laid-back setting. It’s a modern tradition with a sunny twist.
Host a Backyard Feast
Transform your outdoor space into a festive dining area. Set up tables, and string lights, and arrange comfortable seating. Serve a mix of traditional Thanksgiving dishes alongside summer favorites. This fusion creates a unique and delightful dining experience.
Organize Outdoor Activities
Plan games like cornhole, frisbee, or a friendly volleyball match. These activities encourage guests to mingle, laugh, and enjoy the warm weather. Active entertainment adds energy and fun to your gathering.
Incorporate a Gratitude Circle
Gather everyone to share something they’re thankful for. This practice fosters connection and sets a heartfelt tone for the event. Expressing gratitude enhances the meaning of Summersgiving.
Create a Summer-Inspired Menu
Blend seasonal ingredients into your dishes. Think grilled vegetables, fresh fruit salads, and light desserts. Incorporating summer flavors adds a refreshing twist to traditional fare.
Set Up a DIY Beverage Station
Offer a variety of drinks, including infused waters, lemonades, and iced teas. Provide fresh fruits and herbs for guests to customize their beverages. A self-serve station keeps everyone cool and hydrated.
Plan a Sunset Toast
As the day winds down, gather everyone for a toast at sunset. Raise glasses to friendship, family, and the joys of summer. This moment will create a memorable highlight for your celebration.
Capture the Memories
Set up a photo booth with fun props related to summer and Thanksgiving. Encourage guests to snap pictures throughout the event. Sharing these photos later keeps the joyful memories alive.