31 Delicious Things To Cook, Bake, Host, And Celebrate In August

August is my favorite month of the year, and not just because of the endless summer days and peak-season flavors. It's also the month I got married 20 years ago, which gives this time of year an extra layer of meaning and celebration for me. There's something about August that feels especially warm and joyful, with long evenings, sun-ripened produce, and a natural pull toward gathering around good food. Whether you're firing up the grill, stirring together no-bake desserts, or hosting friends for laid-back meals that stretch into the night, August invites you to slow down and savor every bite. To make it easy to enjoy the month to the fullest, I've created a free August bucket list printable you can follow along with as you cook, bake, host, and celebrate. Here are 31 delicious ideas to keep your kitchen inspired and your summer gatherings truly unforgettable.

1. Celebrate National Watermelon Day (August 3)

National Watermelon Day is the perfect excuse to lean into one of summer's juiciest fruits. Serve chilled slices for snacking or turn watermelon into something special with our Watermelon and Feta Salad recipe. The sweet, salty contrast is refreshing, vibrant, and exactly what August tastes like.

2. Host a Backyard BBQ

August is prime time for a classic backyard BBQ. Gather friends and family, fire up the grill, and plan a menu filled with smoky ribs, grilled vegetables, and crisp summer salads. Add plenty of cold drinks and let the evening stretch into sunset.

3. Make No-Bake Desserts

When the heat is on, no-bake desserts save the day. Think chilled cheesecake parfaits, icebox cakes, or silky chocolate mousse. These easy treats feel indulgent without ever turning on the oven.

4. Try Our Grilled Vegetable Kebabs Recipe

Grilled vegetable kebabs are a summer staple for good reason. Thread bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms onto skewers, brush with olive oil and herbs, and grill until lightly charred. Our grilled vegetable kebabs recipe makes a colorful, crowd-pleasing side for any August meal.

5. Mix Up Homemade Lemonade

Nothing cools you down faster than homemade lemonade. Stick with the classic or experiment with raspberry, basil, or strawberry versions for a seasonal twist. Serve over ice and keep a pitcher ready for warm afternoons.

6. Bake Fresh Fruit Pies

August is peak season for peaches, berries, and cherries, making it the perfect time to bake fresh fruit pies. Whether you go full lattice-top or rustic galette, these desserts highlight summer fruit at its best.

7. Plan a Picnic Menu

Take advantage of sunny days with a simple picnic menu. Pack mini sandwiches, crunchy veggies, dips, and fresh fruit, then spread out a blanket at the park or beach for an easy August outing.

8. Try Our Homemade Pizza Recipe

Homemade pizza nights are casual, fun, and endlessly customizable. Use our homemade pizza recipe as your base, then set out fresh toppings so everyone can create their perfect slice on a warm summer evening.

9. Make Ice Lollies with Fresh Fruit

Homemade ice lollies are refreshing, colorful, and easy to make. Blend fresh fruit, citrus juice, or coconut milk, freeze in molds, and enjoy ice pops that both kids and adults will love.

10. Host a Summer Salad Night

Turn salads into the main event by hosting a summer salad night. Mix leafy greens, grains, roasted veggies, and bold dressings to create a light, flavorful spread perfect for August dinners.

11. Grill Pineapple for Dessert

Grilled pineapple transforms into a caramelized, smoky dessert with just a little heat. Brush slices with brown sugar and lime juice, grill until golden, and serve your grilled pineapple with vanilla ice cream for a tropical finish.

12. Make a Batch of Granola Bars

Homemade granola bars are ideal for busy summer days. Packed with oats, nuts, and dried fruit, they're easy to grab for road trips, beach days, or afternoon snacks.

13. Create a Charcuterie Board

A summer charcuterie board makes entertaining effortless. Use our guides to the 13 Best Cheeses for a Charcuterie Board and 15 Best Meats for Your Charcuterie Board, then add seasonal fruit, nuts, and spreads for a relaxed August meal.

14. Whip Up a Fresh Pasta Dish

Fresh pasta paired with light sauces, herbs, and summer vegetables makes a satisfying yet unfussy dinner. Keep flavors simple and let the ingredients shine.

15. Try Our 15 Decadent Potato Salad Recipes

Potato salad is a BBQ essential, and August is the perfect time to try something new. Explore our 15 decadent potato salad recipes featuring fresh herbs, tangy dressings, and creative twists.

16. Make Sangria for Summer Sipping

Sangria is made for warm nights and easy gatherings. Mix up a classic red sangria or try white wine or watermelon sangria for a bright, refreshing cocktail.

17. Prepare a Herby Quinoa Salad

A herby quinoa salad with parsley, mint, lemon, and cucumber is light, nutritious, and great for meal prep. It travels well for picnics and makes a satisfying summer lunch.

18. Bake Blueberry Muffins

Blueberry muffins are a simple pleasure that never goes out of style. Bake a batch bursting with fresh blueberries for breakfasts, snacks, or sharing with friends.

19. Try a New Herb Garden Recipe

Put your herb garden to work by trying a new recipe with basil, thyme, or rosemary. Use fresh herbs in marinades, dressings, or even infused water for subtle summer flavor.

20. Make Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is an August must. Char it over the grill, then finish with butter, lime juice, and chili powder for a smoky, irresistible side dish.

21. Host a Summer Movie Night with Snacks

Set up an outdoor movie night and pair it with easy snacks like popcorn, homemade nachos, or fruit skewers. It's a relaxed way to gather without a full dinner spread.

22. Try Our Homemade Beef Burger Recipe

Homemade burgers always beat store-bought. Our homemade beef burger recipe delivers juicy, flavorful patties that are perfect for grilling and topping with all your summer favorites.

23. Experiment with Fresh Fruit Smoothies

Fresh fruit smoothies are a refreshing way to start the day or cool down in the afternoon. Blend peaches, berries, yogurt, or ice for an easy, nourishing treat.

24. Bake Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

There's always room for classic chocolate chip cookies. Bake them soft and warm, and enjoy straight from the oven or pack them for summer adventures.

25. Make Pickles with Seasonal Veggies

Quick pickling is a great way to preserve summer vegetables. Cucumbers, carrots, and green beans become tangy, crunchy additions to meals and snacks.

26. Host a Tea Party

A summer tea party adds charm to any August afternoon. Serve iced teas, finger sandwiches, and light desserts for a relaxed, elegant gathering.

27. Try Our Watermelon and Feta Salad

Watermelon and feta salad is summer simplicity at its best. Juicy watermelon, salty feta, and fresh mint come together for a dish that's cooling, colorful, and crowd-pleasing.

28. Bake a Batch of Soft Sugar Cookies

Soft sugar cookies are versatile and fun to make. Enjoy them plain, dusted with sugar, or decorated for a sweet August treat.

29. Make Fresh Salsa

Fresh salsa comes together in minutes and adds bold flavor to everything. Dice tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño for a bright topping or snack.

30. Plan a Dinner Party Menu

Planning a dinner party menu in August lets seasonal ingredients shine. Build your meal around grilled dishes, fresh salads, and a simple homemade dessert for a memorable evening.

31. Celebrate Summer's End

As August winds down, celebrate summer's end with a casual get-together. Toast the season with good food, good friends, and gratitude for all the flavors summer brought to the table.

Download Our Printable Checklist

To make this August bucket list easy and fun to follow, I've created a free printable checklist you can download and keep on hand all month long. Whether you print it out for your fridge or save it on your phone, it's a simple way to track each delicious idea, plan ahead, and savor every moment of summer-one bite at a time.

August is bursting with fresh flavors and simple, feel-good cooking projects that are made for sharing. From grilling and baking to relaxed meals with friends and family, these 31 delicious ideas are all about enjoying summer to the fullest. I'll be sharing plenty along the way on social media, too. Which one are you excited to try first?