Throwback Summer: 15 Fun Things Millennials Did (And Should Totally Bring Back)
Summer from 2010 to 2015 hit different. Back then, we were living our best lives with flip phones in hand, blasting indie pop on aux cords, and making memories that still smell like SPF and iced coffee. If you’re craving a little nostalgia or just looking for a fun summer to-do list with that early 2010s energy, here’s your throwback guide to summer fun — millennial edition.
1. DIY Photoshoots with Friends
Grab a digital camera, coordinate an outfit change or two, and head to a field or a graffitied wall. Look for overexposed sun flare and handwritten quotes on the edits.
2. Frozen Yogurt Runs
Froyo with gummy worms, cookie dough, and crushed Oreos? Yes, it was peak 2012 behavior—and it still slaps!
3. Tumblr Picnic Vibes
You know the one. Woven blanket. Mason jars. Strawberries in a bowl. Maybe a book you’re not actually reading. Make it aesthetic. Snap the pics.
4. Road Trips with No Real Destination
Just drive. Bring a playlist that starts with Passion Pit and ends with Frank Ocean. Sing like your teen self is finally healing.
5. Mall Hangouts
Window shopping at Forever 21, hitting up the food court for pretzels, and pretending you weren’t secretly hoping for a movie and a crush sighting.
6. Beach Bonfire Nights
Someone brings a guitar. Someone else brings marshmallows. The vibes? Unmatched.
7. Midnight Denny’s or IHOP Runs
Nothing bonded a friend group like 1 a.m. pancakes and chaotic energy after a night of doing absolutely nothing.
8. Rewatching Early 2010s Rom-Coms
Think: Friends with Benefits, Easy A, The Duff. Turn it into a themed movie night with popcorn, wine, and snarky commentary.
9. Outdoor Music Festivals
Whether it was local indie shows or full-blown festivals like Warped Tour or Coachella, music was the moment. Bring it back—even if it’s just a backyard concert with friends!
10. Making Friendship Bracelets
Yes, grown-ups can do crafts too. Grab the string. Get the beads. Make a bracelet and channel 2013 sleepover energy.
11. Creating Summer Bucket Lists
Remember when we used to write down goals like “kiss someone at a fireworks show”? Bring that chaotic ambition back.
12. Spending a Day Off the Grid
Turn off your phone. Go to the lake. Read a book. Take a nap in the sun. Let life feel analog again.
13. Water Balloon Fights
When’s the last time you let yourself be silly? Let the inner kid out and don’t forget to laugh.
14. Journaling Under the Stars
This was peak main character energy. Write your late-night thoughts while laying on a blanket, wondering where your life’s going.
15. Making Mix CDs or Playlists
It’s 2025, but the summer playlist tradition is eternal. Make one for your mood, your crush, your heartbreak—then share it.
