For six frigid months of the year, we long for the hot, carefree days of summer. Then a real scorcher hits, the kind that has you wondering if you could actually fry an egg on the sidewalk. Suddenly, your focus shifts to two questions: “where can I find patios near me?” and “how quickly can I get my hands on an iced coffee?” Sure, it would be convenient to have a giant thermostat that controls the weather. But until that happens, there are lots of other ways to keep cool. Treat yourself to some mid-day frozen desserts, or turn your daily errands into a refreshing escape complete with A/C, iced drinks, and a moment to savour the season.

Running errands? When the heat’s at its peak, you make even a quick mall stop feel like a little vacation. You don’t need a plan, just a bit of time and an excuse to slow things down. Before tackling your to-do list, take a moment to have an iced drink or a frozen treat. On a blazing hot day, that first cold sip or bite just hits differently — and bonus, this is the one time of year when holding something freezing feels downright amazing. Go all-in with an old favourite like a fresh fruit smoothie, vanilla soft serve, or something fun and new to you: a frozen lemonade, iced matcha, or bubble tea with extra tapioca.  Then, do a casual lap through the stores. Let yourself linger. Try on sunglasses just for fun, pick up a new read, or lean fully into your vacation mode and finally grab that body mist you’ve been eyeing that smells like coconuts and sunshine. Whether you grab a little something to go or take a few minutes to sit and people-watch, a cool break can turn a hot day into a retreat.

When it’s 30+ degrees outside, surviving the heat becomes a full-time job. And like most things, choosing the right summer outfit makes all the difference.  While you’re shopping for cute summer styles, check the labels for cotton and linen. Both are naturally breathable and moisture-wicking materials, with linen’s loose weave taking the airflow to the next level. Throw on a breezy linen set and some chunky jewellery for a laidback, boho summer look. Or opt for a classic cotton dress with white sneakers — easy, comfortable, and perfect for a weekend of exploring. Got summer plans that call for a little more edge or coverage? Swap out the sneakers for combat boots and add a crossbody bag for a festival-ready fit. Or go full flower child with a maxi skirt, loose linen pants, and layered tank tops. The goal is comfort with personality — something that works with the heat, not against it. And don’t forget the little extras that make a big difference. A sleek insulated water bottle not only helps you stay hydrated, but also doubles as a style accessory (bonus points if it matches your shoes). A foldable fan or packable parasol are also underrated essentials when the sun is high. Looking for extra sun protection? Add a wide-brim hat, a UV-blocking cover-up, or a breezy button-down to layer on during the sunniest hours. Stash a mini SPF stick or face mist in your bag for easy reapplication, and you’ll be ready for whatever the day throws your way.

It’s only summer for a short while, so why not enjoy it outside? There’s something about shaded tables surrounded by greenery, the hum of easy conversation, and that unmistakable feeling of fresh air after time indoors that makes patio dining a peaceful escape from the heat, and a perfect way to break up your day. Whether you're catching up with a friend or enjoying a solo moment between errands, these small pauses are what make summer memorable. There’s a different rhythm to everything when you’re not rushing — even your iced coffee tastes better when you’ve got nowhere to be. Want to turn your next shopping trip into the perfect excuse for a patio afternoon? Places like CF Shops at Don Mills are officially in full patio mode, with restaurants like Añejo, The Good Son, and Taylor’s Landing offering open-air seating perfect for lunch, happy hour, or a spicy snack in the sunshine.  Prefer something quick and casual? Look for shaded café tables, or grab some take-out and find a public bench surrounded by plants, fountains, or flowerbeds — many CF properties offer beautifully landscaped areas to relax and recharge. CF has also been expanding outdoor dining spaces at major centres to give you more shaded spots to sit, snack, and recharge, including CF Pacific Centre, CF Richmond Centre, CF Chinook Centre, CF Market Mall, CF Sherway Gardens, CF Toronto Eaton Centre, CF Carrefour Laval, CF Fairview Pointe Claire, and more.  So go ahead, order the extra guac, stay for one more drink, and call it self-care. It’s summer. You’ve earned it.

The beauty of summer isn’t just the heat, but the chance to pause. The days stretch a little longer. Errands turn into detours. Small indulgences start to feel like rituals. Summer is as much a feeling as it is a season. It’s in the soundtrack of sandals on pavement, the scent of sunscreen, the warmth of the sun on your shoulders as you cross the parking lot. It’s in those quiet, in-between moments: stepping into a cool shop just to browse, catching your breath on a shaded bench, sipping something sweet without checking the time. You don’t have to go far or spend big to enjoy it — sometimes, all it takes is stepping outside, taking a breath, and letting yourself be in it. So whether you're chasing errands or just chasing a bit of peace, give yourself the space to slow down. Linger a little. Wander a bit longer. Let the season work its magic on you, one iced coffee, one shady patio, one easy afternoon at a time.  Find your nearest CF shopping centre and start making summer memories today.