Movies
This indoor activity never gets old. Grab a group of friends and head off to your local movie theater. It’s a great way to stay cool and enjoy the latest horror flick or romantic comedy. Don’t forget to get some popcorn – it’s a great snack and fun to throw at friends!

Shopping
Every girl loves a shopping trip. If it’s too hot to go outside, go to the mall! Spend all day being cool in air conditioning and get some cute outfits; we can never have too many of those. Going to the mall is an easy way to stay out of the heat and have fun.

Go to a Museum
For all you city people out there, spend the day museum hopping. Go to places like The Met or the MOMA (it’s free on Fridays!). There are plenty of art galleries and museums to enlighten your brain while you stay cool. Maybe one will inspire you to make your own art!

Broadway
Although located in NYC, Broadway is not just for city-dwellers. Take a trip in to see one of the amazing shows out right now. You can try for Catch Me If You Can (unfortunately not starring Leonardo DiCaprio, but one can dream), The Book of Mormon (it won the Tony for Best Musical!), or Spiderman: Turn Off The Dark (everyone loves a good superhero story). There are so many more shows that you can go see, and they’ll keep you entertained, while cooling you down with their a/c. Don’t forget to bring a jacket!

Comedy Show
Another type of show that will keep you laughing is a comedy show! If you’re not into the whole singing and acting scene, go see a comedy show that will most likely make fun of all that. There are plenty of them around and they’ll be sure to have you catching your breath after laughing so much. I recently went to the Upright Citizens Brigade in NYC and it was hilarious; I highly suggest it! For more information on the UCB go here.

New York Aquarium
Head out to Coney Island and walk around the New York Aquarium. Bring friends and admire all the different kinds of fish they have. Just don’t jump in the tanks!

Spa
Don’t want to walk around museums or aquariums? Well then get relaxed and go to a spa for the day. A massage never hurt anyone. One of the best indoor activities there is, spa going is sure to keep you occupied, cool, and calm for the whole day.

Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers
Love the winter? Well then the Sky Rink is the place for you. Enjoy a nice day ice skating at this year round ice rink. A perfect way to cool down in the hot weather. Bring friends and have some fun!

Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory
What better way to cool down on a hot day then to have some ice cream? Head out to the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory for some great ice cream. It’ll be sure to cool you down and while you’re there head over to Coney Island and hang out at the beach. If it cools down enough even catch a Cyclones game!

Eat Some Sushi
Don’t know what to eat on a hot day? Sushi is the perfect food to eat when it’s 100 degrees out. Although delicious, pizza is a hot food and might enhance the already hot temperatures. Grab sushi with some friends, the cool, refreshing fish is something different that’ll be sure to keep you cooler then a piece of pizza.

-Summer 2011 Intern, Sari Cohen

 15. Turtle Bay Resort – Oahu, HI: a 10-minute show

 

14. Sunoco Welcome America Celebration – Philadelphia, PA: a 15-minute show

 

13. Go 4^th on the River – New Orleans, LA: a 13-minute show

12. A Capitol Fourth – Washington, DC: a 20-minute show

11.  Fair St. Louis – St. Louis, MO: a 20-minute show

10. Presbyterian Hospital July 4^th Spectacular – Charlotte, NC: a 20-minute show

 

9. Boston Pops Firework Spectacular – Boston, MA: a 21-minute show

8. Fisherman’s Wharf Fireworks Extravaganza – San Francisco, CA: a 21-minute show

 

7. Seattle’s Family 4^th Celebration – Seattle, WA: a 21-minute show

6. Lights on the Lake – Lake Tahoe, CA: a 23-minute show

5. Light Up the Night – Aurora, CO: a 25-minute show

 

4. Macy’s Firework Spectacular – New York, NY: a 26-minute show

3. Kaboom Town! – Addison, TX: a 30-minute show

 

2. Let Freedom Sing – Nashville, TN: a 30-minute show

 

1. Atlantic City Firework Spectacular – Atlantic City, NJ: In total, a 46-minute show

http://news.travel.aol.com/2011/06/28/july-4th-fireworks-15-of-the-biggest-shows-in-america-ranked-p/

 -Summer 2011 Intern, Amanda Pryor

9) Alcohol
Get your father a nice aged top-shelf whiskey, bourbon or scotch.  It’s a great gift to share with him on his day and helps relieve some stress he may be feeling from those long workdays.  Also, its something he may not have gone out to go get himself.

8) Personalized Gift
Parents always like to know we love them, and that we’re not “too cool” to say it.  Get him a personalized dad gift showing how much he means to you.  You can even make something yourself to make it extremely personal.  Add a very heartfelt card and he’ll know that you will be his little girl or boy.

7) A set of Golf Clubs
No matter how good he may or may not be at the game, having new equipment or equipment for the first time will make him happy.  A nice addition would be to get him a gift certificate to the local country club for a free round.  If you have brothers and sisters this can be an easy gift to split multiple ways and you can even get another certificate for one of his friends to go with him!

6) Books
 No matter what your dad may be in to, whether it be sports, music, entertainment or just reading in general, a new book will always give him something to do for a while.  He’ll enjoy reading it and will love that the thoughtfulness came from you!

5) Gadgets
Get him his first ipod, a new phone, a new TV, or a new laptop/desktop.  Parents don’t usually go out and spend a lot on new gadgets for themselves so it will be a nice surprise.  Set it up with him, and teach him new things.  He’ll appreciate the time you take out of your day to spend with him. 

4) Sneakers/Clothes
Like we said, parents usually don’t go completely out of their way to have the hippest clothes, or a brand new pair of sneakers every month.  He’s probably wearing the same sneakers for the last couple of years that he does everything from mowing the lawn in to going to the store to pick up milk.  Surprise him with a new pair of really nice jeans or a new pair of running sneakers you know he would never get himself. 

3) Concert tickets
See if your dad’s favorite band is doing a reunion tour or coming back into your city.  Get two tickets for your parents to go.  It will make a great, thoughtful gift and allow your parents to spend time together they may not always get.  Also, you’ll please both parents! It’s a win, win!

2) Sports Tickets
It’s a great way to spend time together enjoying something you both like.  Take him to his favorite team’s game.  Depending on your financial situation, take him to an away game letting him see a new arena.  Turn it into a weekend trip if you can!

1) Landscaping Services
Most dads mow their own lawn, trim their own bushes, and get rid of all those nasty weeds.  Sign him up for a landscaping service so he can finally relax and let someone else do it for a change.  If he is the type that doesn’t like someone else taking care of his lawn then get him a new lawn mower, lawn edger, or weed whacker.  They can always use something better than what they’ve had for so long. 

–Jackie, Summer 2011 Intern

1. Big Book of Parties by Diane Warner
2. Make it Memorable by Robyn Freedman Spizman
3. Successful Event Planning by Shannon Kilkenny
4. Clever Party Planning by Suzanne Singleton
5. Parties that Wow: Setting the Stage for Creative Entertaining by Joanthon Fong
6. The Party Planner by David Tutera
7. Porch Parties: Cocktail Recipes and Easy Ideas for Outdoor Entertaining by Denise Gee
8. Event Planning : The Ultimate Guide to Successful Meetings, Corporate Events, Fundraising Galas, Conferences, Conventions, Incentives and Other Special Events by Judy Allen
9. Event Planning Business by Tim Roncevich and Steven Primm
10. Planning Special Events (J-B Fund Raising School Series) by James S. Armstrong

-Lisa Glover, Summer 2011 Intern

10.  Paintball

Paintball is fun for so many reasons.  It is great exercise, relieves stress and allows you to get outside with your friends.  In addition, it is always fun to sneak up on a buddy and shower them with paintballs.

9.  Sky Diving

Adrenaline junkies; this one is for you.  Sky diving is way to observe the summer landscape from whole new perspective which you won’t soon forget.  If your are in the New York Metro Area why not contact Sky Dive Long Island a reputable sky diving location only 70 miles outside NYC.  Penta’s president, Michele, has been several times and recommends it to all!

8.  Surfing

If you are not from California or Hawaii there is a good chance you have not even considered trying to surf but taking a surf lesson is an alternative way to enjoy the beach.  It is great exercise and you can keep cool in the ocean while still getting outside.  Plus, if you get tired of wiping out you can hop out of the water and work on your tan.

7.  Dune Buggy/ATV Trails

Off road vehicles such as dune buggies and ATVs allow you to get outside, observe nature and feed your need for speed.  Taking the dune buggy or ATV out on the trail is always exciting.  You’re going to need a helmet, you’re going to get dirty and you’re going to have a ton of fun.

6.  Parasailing

Parasailing is a great summer activity because it allows you to view the ocean from a whole new perspective.  A parachute attached to a speed boat brings you about 4 stories above the water and takes you for a ride.  It is a great summer activity because you are out on the water having fun and enjoying an unforgettable experience.

5.  Rock Climbing

This is another activity that will require the assistance of a professional but a great summer activity nonetheless.  It is a great exercise and allows to view the world from an angle view get to see.

4.  Beach Soccer

Beach soccer is a new spin on the classic game.  Like some of the other activities on the list beach soccer is a unique way to enjoy those beach visits.  Work up a sweat on the sand then cool of in the waves.

3.  Make your own Ice Cream

Instead of hunting down the ice cream man, how about making your own ice cream.  It is a fun family activity and you end up with a perfect summer treat for a hot summer day.  Click here for step by step instructions

2.  Write a Poem

The beautiful weather and landscape of summer is great inspiration for a poem.  Why not jot down a view lines while relaxing on the lazy summer days.  In winter, break it out and remember those warm days will be here again.

1.  Turn off TV/Phone/Computer for a day

While this may seem mundane, it truly is a unique experience in this day and age.  Why not take some time to enjoy being disconnected without worrying about work or mindless entertainment and just enjoy the natural beauty of summer.

-Steve Zanzonico, Summer 2011 Intern

1.  If you have a valid student ID, you are all set. Student Rush Tickets are available for many shows. They are sold either as soon as the box office is opened, or 1 hour to curtain.  Some are available on a first come first serve basis and others use a lottery system. All of these options require a student ID and usually have a limit of 2 tickets per ID; also, most only accept cash. See classics like Mamma Mia and Jersey Boys for under $30. A complete list of participating shows and information on how to obtain these tickets can be found at:
http://www.playbill.com/celebritybuzz/article/82428-Broadway_Rush_and_Standing_Room_Only_Policies

2.  Try your luck as a volunteer usher. Select theaters use volunteer ushers and in return, for an hour or two of your time, you get to see the show for free. Check out details at: http://nymag.com/guides/cheap/ushering/

3.  Sign up for free with “Student No Rush” tickets at Ticket Central. Weekly updates will be emailed to you. Shows are usually less than $30. This is a great resource if you are seeking Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway tickets.

4.  Check out HipTix at: http://www.hiptix.com/. HipTix offers a limited number of tickets to select shows for $20. Sign up for free and receive email updates.

5.  Many Universities and Colleges stage their own productions. Many are open to the public and are generally inexpensive. Check their websites for more information.

Together with a few friends, I have seen one of the last performances of “Spring Awakening”. We went to the Box office in the morning and bought 5 Student Rush tickets at $22.50 each. Regular price tickets were long sold out or costs as much as $100. We had scattered seats on the balcony, far away from the stage, but yet the view was still amazing. The experience was just amazing. I have actually seen “Rent” and “Billy Elliot” using Student Rush tickets too. It is definitely worth the wait in line. Broadway shows are an unforgettable experience.

The staff at Penta has you covered. We researched the top 10 sunscreens that have enough spf protection, are great from the face and body, good for the kiddies while out playing, and eco-friendly. Take a look at our list of sunscreens and their ingredients and grab the necessary amount to accompany you for the weekend and protect you against dreaded sunburn.

1. Badger Sunscreen for Face and Body, SFP 30

Sunscreen Badger Sunscreen for Face and Body SPF 30 is one of the most popular eco-friendly sunscreens on the market.

It contains zinc oxide as a sun blocking ingredient, which is effective against both UVA and UVB rays. Badger sunscreen is made of certified organic ingredients, such as extra virgin olive oil, golden yellow beeswax, jojoba oil, cocoa butter, shea butter, lavender oil, orange oil and others. This not only helps to protect against sunburns but also moisturizes the skin.

The sunscreen is suitable for children of all ages and adults thanks to its natural content. It is also water resistant, being active even after 40 minutes of swimming.

2. California Baby, Sun block Stick, SPF 30

California Baby SPF 30, Sun block Stick is chemical-free sunscreen that can be used even for babies skin. It does not contain fragrance, PABA or harmful chemicals and at the same time effectively protects skin from UVA and UVB rays thanks to its highly micronized, non-whitening titanium dioxide.

The California Baby sunscreen is water resistant, being effective after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. The stick provides smooth and even application without stains, making sure your child gets all the needed protection.

It is also very convenient to take it along due to it compact design.

3. Loving Naturals Sunscreen, SPF 30

Loving Naturals Organic SPF 30 Sunscreen is an eco-friendly natural sunscreen made only of organic ingredients. The main sunblocking agent is non-nano particle zinc oxide that protects you from wide range of UV rays.

The Loving Naturals sunscreen contains only natural ingredients, such as grape seed oil, organic sunflower oil, organic olive oil, organic hemp seed oil, organic green tea and others that have moisturizing effect.

You can be sure that this sunscreen does not contain doubtful chemicals that can absorb the skin and have detrimental effect on your skin or the environment.

4. Soleo Organics All Natural Sunscreen, SPF 30

Soleo Organics All Natural Sunscreen SPF 30 is an organic sunscreen that is meant to protect you from sun exposure and reduce your risk of premature skin ageing or developing skin cancer.

This eco-friendly sunscreen does not contain chemicals, including parabens and is easily biodegradable. Soleo Organics All Natural Sunscreen is rich in natural oils and extracts, including grape seed oil, sunflower oil, beeswax, macadamia oil, green tea, roman chamomile and others.

The sunscreen is suitable for children and adults.

5. Think Baby Safe Sunscreen, SPF 30

Think Baby Safe Sunscreen SPF 30 provides strong protection against UVA and UVB rays and retains its effectiveness in the water and under sunlight. It does not contain hormone disrupting chemicals, parabens and PABA.

One of the main sun protecting ingredients of the Think Baby sunscreen is zinc oxide. The sunscreen texture is smooth and easy to apply without leaving greasy stains.

The sunscreen has a nice scent and is very stable on the skin.

6. All Terrain Aqua Sport Performance Sunscreen

All Terrain Aqua Sport Performance Sunscreen is made specifically for those, who love water sports, giving extra protection under sunlight and in the water.

The sunscreen is highly water-resistant and retains its effectiveness even after 80 minutes of activities in the water. It offers protection against UVA and UVB rays, preventing sunburn and other unwanted side-effects of sun exposure.

All Terrain Sunscreen contains natural ingredients, such as aloe vera, bladderwrack extract, cucumber extract, grapefruit extract and others.

7. UV Natural Baby Sunscreen, SPF30

UV Natural Baby Sunscreen SPF 30 offers an effective protection against UV exposure. It contains zinc oxide as the main sun protecting ingredient, as well as a great number of moisturizing natural extracts and oils, including green tea, grape seed oil, macadamia oil and others.

The sunscreen does not contain preservatives or fragrances. UV Natural Baby Sunscreen goes in a recyclable package, which is a good eco-friendly option.

8. L’uvalla Face & Body Sunscreen, SPF 20

L’uvalla Face & Body Sunscreen, SPF 20 is made of quality natural oils, extracts, cold pressed virgin oils that nourish and moisturize your skin. The sunscreen is produced cruelty free, which means no humans or animals were abused.

It offers effective protection from UVA and UVB rays for adults, children those with sensitive skin.

L’uvalla Sunscreen is free of preservatives, chemicals and PBAs, being also sustainable.

9. Bull Frog Ultimate Sheer Projection, SPF 30

Bullfrog Ultimate Sheer Protection is another natural sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays.

The formula of the sunscreen is quite rich, including the unique blend of seven soothing extracts, six moisturizers and four powerful antioxidants, which leave your skin moisturized and nurtured.

The sunscreen is waterproof and hypoallergenic, which is suitable for adults and children. It is easy applied on the skin, preventing the pores from clogging.

10. Desert Essence Age Reversal Sunscreen Mineral Daily Face Protection, SPF 30

Desert Essence Age Reversal Sunscreen Mineral Daily Face Protection SPF 30 is designed to protect against UVA and UVB rays.

The sunscreen is chemicals free, containing natural ingredients such as vitamin E, grape seed extract and pomegranate extract, which not only moisturize your skin but also reduce wrinkles and other skin ageing signs.

The sunscreen can be applied underneath make up, giving your skin a healthy appearance.

Labor day weekend for most people signifies bbq’s with close family and friends, fun in the sun on the beach, sports and activities with colleagues, and sadly…the last holiday of the summer. If you are like most people, you want to find the best vacation or tourist spot to have a great time without breaking the bank.

If you are a native New Yorker, a frequent visitor to the city, or a tourist looking for the perfect place to visit or spend your weekend for cheap, we have come up with 10 perfect attractions to fit your budget and desire for a good time.

1.) The Beach
If you are looking for a family friendly beach check out Staten Island’s South Beach. With a playground, boardwalks, bocce courts, ball field, roller hockey rink, and shuffleboard, kids of all ages will be entertained.
If you want an “adult only” outing Harry’s Bar at Water Taxi is for you. This late night oasis in Queens has a great view of the Manhattan skyline. If you want to end the summer Jersey Shore style hit up Seaside Heights, you never what reality show stars you might run into.

2.) Coney Island
If you are looking for some classic amusement park fun, a freak show, a boardwalks, or some go old burlesque fun, go check out Coney Island. With fun for kids and adults this could be the perfect end to a great summer.

3.) Day in the Park
If you looking for something to do with out spending tons of cash, spend the day in one of many beautiful parks in NYC. If you are looking to bbq, check out Manhattan’s Riverside Park, located at Riverside Drive, West 135 to West 158 Street. With baseball fields, playgrounds, and spray showers, you are in for a cheap day of fun in the sun. If you want to visit the most known park in the world, pack that picnic, grab some friends, and head to Central Park. With guided tours, dog parks, and carousel, you are sure to enjoy your day.

4.) New York Renaissance Fair
The NY Renaissance Fair is guaranteed fun. Take a stroll back in time through Elizabethan England with 16th Century games, rides, arts, crafts, food, music, and dance. For ticket information go to http://www.renfair.com/ny/index.asp

5) Snout N’ Stout Neighborhood Pig Roast and Sidewalk Party
Go check out this pig roast in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Catering company Woody’s Pig Roast is teaming up with Mean Red Productions for a North Carolina style BBQ side walk party. The $23 ticket includes a plate of pork smothered in one of three yummy sauces (NC barbecue, pineapple teriyaki or Cuban mojo) plus coleslaw and your choice of potatoes Caesar or fruit salad. Go to www.meanredproductions.com for more info.

6.) Brooklyn County fair
If you’re looking for some less risqué fun that’s suitable for the whole family, head to what’s being dubbed the Brooklyn County Fair: Gowanus Hootenany (388 Carroll St.).
This family-friendly event is set to feature fresh-baked treats, crafts from Etsy, DJs and live music from the Woes, Honne Well and more. Plus, free popsicles for the kids. Can’t beat that.
This is a FREE event. Fun starts at noon. Complete event schedule and details: Brooklyn County Fair: A Gowanus Hootenany

7.) West Indian-American day festival
Returning for the 42nd year, the West Indian-American Day Carnival culminates on Labor Day with a parade that is among the City’s largest. Tens of thousands of spectators lined the parade route along Eastern Parkway, from Rochester Avenue to Grand Army Plaza, to view masqueraders, elaborately designed costumes, live performances and more.

8.) Brooklyn Urban Arts Market
Party and shop at the Brooklyn Urban Arts Market, featuring live music, visual art performances, food from Myrtle Avenue restaurants, and 50 local, DIY vendors selling fashion, art, and accessories. Starts Sunday, Sept. 6th at Myrtle Avenue between Grand Ave. and Emerson Place.

9.) Splish Splash Water Park (Riverhead, Long Island)
Labor Day Weekend is your last chance to take the train to this great water park in Long Island. Splish Splash has 19 water slides, a wave pool, a 1300′ long Lazy River, and more. The park has loads of trees and shady sots plus kiddie areas that have wading pools that are fun for toddlers and little slides that let preschoolers in on the fun. The MTA offers Splish Splash packages that include discounted round-trip rail to/from Ronkonkoma Station, connecting shuttle bus and park admission. Visit the Splish Splash website for more information or call (631) 727-3600. Package Price is: Adult $58.75 Children* (4-11) $46 – Note: kids must be under 48 inches tall.

10.) Shinnecock Pow Wow South Hampton (Shinnecock Reservation, West Gate Road, South Hampton)
This four day harvest festival includes music & dance performances, fire lighting at sunset, demonstrations, foods and native crafts. Admission: Adults: $10 Children: $7 ages 5-12 Seniors: $7 Take the Jitney bus: $10 each plus a short cab ride or take the LIRR which offers a Shinnecock Pow Wow package that includes train, shuttle from train station and festival admissions: $39 for adults & $16 kids. 631-283-6143

1. Circle Line Cruises- Pier 83

For $79 tickets, a DJ will provide entertainment and food and drinks will be available for purchase. Call 212-269-5755 or 866-9CLINE1 for reservations or more information.

Circle Line is also hosting a rooftop party at Pier 83. Tickets are $79 for this rooftop BBQ with a live DJ and great fireworks views.

2. Hotel Gansevoort-Plunge Bar & Lounge

You will have to squeeze your way into this rooftop bar but the views of the Hudson and midtown are absolutely amazing. Make your way to the Gansevoort Hotel for an outrageously priced cocktail; views like this don’t come for free, especially in the Meatpacking District. For reservations visit: http://www.hotelgansevoort.com/rooftop-pool/index.cfm

3. 230 fifth

A tropical feel rooftop, this sprawling outdoor favorite holds more than 500 people, and its Flatiron locale is perfectly situated in relation to the fireworks display. But due to the magnitude of people expected on July 4, bottle service reservations are recommended. To reserve visit:  http://www.230-fifth.com/

4. Boat basin café

For a romantic date night, this outdoor space along the Hudson River is the perfect place. Get there early before the park is swarming with spectators. Visit www.boatbasincafe.com for information on how to reserve places.

5. The Empire Hotel Rooftop Bar and lounge

This rooftop offers a view that overlooks Columbus Circle, Lincoln Center and the Hudson River, depending on where you’re standing. But even with a space this large (it’s 8,000 square feet), be sure to make a reservation or get there early to stake out a good spot. For reservations, visit: http://www.empirehotelnyc.com/eat-rooftop.php

6. Hudson Sky Terrace

Gorgeous views of the Hudson River and 9th Avenue give this relaxed rooftop oasis atop the Hudson Hotel a chic urban feel. Reservations are a must, especially if you plan to watch the fireworks display. Visit http://www.hudsonhotel.com/hudson-sky-terrace.aspx for more information.

7. Hudson Terrace

Located right off the West Side Highway (621 West 46th Street), the Hudson Terrace rooftop will offer panoramic views of the 4th of July fireworks, a BBQ meal, and four hours of top shelf open bar. Ticket packages start at $150, to get yours, visit http://www.hudsonhotel.com/hudson-sky-terrace.aspx

8. W Hoboken

For those in New Jersey…The view of the Hudson River and city skyline from the Chandelier Room at this Hoboken hotel is spectacular. Plant yourself on the terrace for the fireworks, and then head inside for light snacks and an assortment of specialty cocktails. Visit www.whotels.com/hoboken for more information.

9. Hudson River Park Greenway

Fireworks will be ignited from six barges positioned along the Hudson River between 24th and 50th streets, illuminating the entire west side skyline. It’s truly spectacular, but be prepared to encounter massive crowds. For a map of the park visit: http://newyork.citysearch.com/profile/11503308/new_york_ny/hudson_river_park_greenway.html

10. The USS Intrepid

See the fireworks from the flight deck of the USS Intrepid. Enjoy VIP Viewing on Intrepid’s Flight Deck as well as tour The Intrepid Museum, which will be open exclusively for fireworks guests from 7PM-8:45PM. A  DJ will be entertaining guests and tickets are $100 per person. To purchase tickets, visit http://www.intrepidmuseum.org/