Despite Deschutes County continuing with Phase 2 of re-opening, summer feels a little different this year. But because it’s many people’s favorite seasons––especially in beautiful Central Oregon––we’ve put together some summer activities that you can still do despite COVID-19.
Summer isn’t canceled
A trending term over the last couple of weeks is people wondering if summer is canceled (or if all of 2020 is). We know that many plans have been canceled or pushed back––like weddings and reunions––but we also know that some things can continue. With that said, the CVSC is taking the stance that summer isn’t canceled. It has just changed for the safety of our community. Here are four ideas that you and your family can participate in during the sunny days ahead.
Go to a park
Outdoor activities are generally considered the safest social option during the ongoing pandemic. There are dozens of parks in Bend, many with reservable covered seating areas to make gatherings easy and safe. The best part about parks? You can space out far enough to include a wider circle of friends. And everything from park cookouts to picnic dates are easy to pull off. Make it even better with delicious snacks from Trader Joe’s.
Spend the day at the lake
If you’re from here, you’ve no doubt heard of the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. The entire loop is 66 miles of beautiful summer driving, peppered with twelve lakes. Local favorites like Devil’s, Elk, and Todd Lakes are perfect places to spend the day (or night if camping is allowed). And, unlike public pools, these bodies of water are clean and open.
Plan an outdoor movie picnic
Although we don’t have a drive-in movie theater in the area, you can still host an outdoor movie night with family or friends. All it takes is a screen of some sort (you can even use your house wall), a projector, and your favorite movie. If you’re feeling fancy, add in some fairy lights or tiki torches to create ambiance. To make it pandemic approved, section off areas that are six feet apart and have people bring their own blankets or lawn chairs. And for safe snacking, choose packaged options (no double-dipping!).
Shop at the CVSC
At the CVSC we’ve spent the last couple of months making sure our shopping center is safe for patrons. Although every store has made individual decisions to open or modify their hours, we stand by their sanitizing practices. And because we’re an outdoor mall, you can breathe deeply between stores (yes, even through a mask!).
Summer activities, modified
Summer 2020 looks a little different, but luckily we live in an area with plenty of outdoor options to take advantage of. So, keep safe, keep distanced, and keep soaking up that sunshine!
