Rejoice! The time we’ve all worked toward has finally arrived. Maybe it’s the warmth that makes everybody so happy, but when you think about it, we’re given an extended break in the summer for a reason. For starters, the sun is actually out, providing the privileged with luscious tans. Those unlucky enough to have a fairer complexion usually just end up looking like lobster-people. But hey, that’s why they invented SPF 50, right?

Also, barbecues are a must for any summer vacation. After a year with questioningly edible dining hall food, we’re all a little entitled to the deliciousness that grilled food provides, especially during the Fourth of July. Speaking of Independence Day, summer makes every day feel like a trip to Disney World with the excess of fireworks. Is there anything better than launching potentially harmful explosives into the air? No, didn’t think so.

And it would be sacrilege to not discuss ice cream shops. Is it just us, or do 1,000 more of these things seem to pop up between Memorial Day and Labor Day? Not that we’re complaining, mind you.

Then, of course, there’s the mack daddy of all summer vacation activities — the beach. Wrapping every awesome aspect of the summer into one day trip, the beach is the be-all, end-all of summer fun. Unless your male friend wears a Speedo. Then it’s just a little awkward.

Even if the weather doesn’t provide all the outdoor activities you crave, all the best movies seem to come out during the summer. ‘Iron Man 2?’ Check. ‘Toy Story 3?’ Check. ‘Barbie’s Magical Adv’ — whoops, we meant ‘Inception?’ Uh … Check. 
However you decide to spend your summer, just make sure to enjoy it. Because before you know it, August will strike and we’ll be headed back to school … Speedos and all.

— Compiled by Flash Steinbeiser, feature editor, ansteinb@syr.edu