One Last Hurrah: Summer Fun Without Wasting Water

August always seems to arrive too quickly.

School supplies appear, routines begin returning and the long days of summer start slipping away. Before the backpacks come out, there is still time for one last hurrah.

It does not need to be elaborate. Invite a few friends or neighbors, order pizza, turn on some music and give the kids one main activity to enjoy.

Colorado is facing significant drought conditions, and many communities are being asked to reduce water use. Although Elevated Celebrations has water-capable inflatables, we do not feel this is the right season to actively promote attractions that require a continuously running hose.

Fortunately, dry does not have to mean dull.

A bounce house or dry inflatable combo can become the center of the afternoon. Add sidewalk chalk, bubbles, music, simple snacks and a shaded place to rest, and you have everything needed for a memorable day.

During the hottest weeks of summer, consider gathering earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. Keep plenty of drinking water available, provide shade and watch for changing heat, wind or smoke conditions.

The goal is not to create the biggest event of the summer. It is simply to make time for one more memory.

The kids may not remember every snack or decoration, but they will remember laughing, jumping and spending one more summer day with people they love.