Strumming through Summer
Creative Ukulele Ideas for Hot Days
Ah, July. It’s the season of sunshine, fireflies, and slowing down just enough to enjoy the simple things. It’s always been my favorite month (partly because it’s my birthday month). Maybe you like to travel, or relax at home, or chase your kids through the sprinkler. No matter where you are, your ukulele can be a joyful part of your summer rhythm!
Here are five playful, creative ways to strum through summer. There’s no pressure, no perfection needed. Just pick up your uke and let the summer vibes inspire you!
1. Create a Summer Strum List
Make a short playlist of songs that feel like summer to you. Include beachy classics, feel-good anthems, or nostalgic tunes. Learn just one new chord or strumming pattern from each song. Even five minutes a day makes a difference!
Some of my favorite summer songs:
"Somewhere Over the Rainbow" Iz version
"Margaritaville” Jimmy Buffett
“Wouldn’t It Be Nice” The Beach Boys
"Under the Boardwalk” The Drifters
"You Are My Sunshine" Johnny Cash
“Count on Me” Bruno Mars
2. Write a Summertime Song
You don’t need to be a songwriter to write a summer song! Try this simple format:
Verse 1: A favorite summer memory
Chorus: A repeating line (like “Summer feels like sunshine on my strings”)
Verse 2: Something you love about this summer
Record yourself singing it just for you, or share it with a friend!
3. Take Your Ukulele on an Outdoor Adventure
Ukuleles love the outdoors! Bring your ukulele on a picnic, to the porch swing, or even to the park. Let nature be your inspiration:
Strum while watching clouds
Play near a river or a garden
Try making up a melody inspired by the songs of birds
Tip: If it’s super hot, give your uke a shady spot, especially if it's wood.
4. Draw or Decorate a Ukulele Song Sheet
Pick a favorite song and make it your own. Add doodles, colors, or hand-lettered lyrics to a printout of the chords. This is a great way to combine music and visual creativity.
Bonus: it helps you remember the song better!
5. Host a Mini Summer Jam, Even if It's Just You!
Light some fairy lights, sip lemonade, and play a few of your favorite songs. Invite family or friends, or just play for your pets and plants. You can even make a short video to send to someone who needs a smile. You could find some Hawaiian-themed decorations at a thrift store to create a tropical look. How fun!
Summer is a season for joy, rhythm, and returning to what makes you feel most alive. I hope your ukulele adds a little sunshine to your days.
What are you doing this summer as you make the ukulele a part of each day? I’d love to hear! Let’s talk about it in the comments below.
Keep strumming, keep smiling,
Susan