When I think of summer in Italy, a number of things spring to mind. In a “normal” summer, I would picture tourists from around the world, music festivals, sagras (community-based celebrations of local foods), large gatherings with friends, and holiday visits from family. Sadly, most of these activities are not possible this summer. But that doesn’t mean summer is a lost season. There are still many things to enjoy, starting with the colors of the Italian summer. Looking around, I see color everywhere - and that color sends my spirits soaring.

Summer is the time to enjoy the colors of nature, starting with the blue of the ocean, experienced on a beach or from high above on a rocky coast (near Levanto, below). These natural colors are complemented by brightly colored boats like these in the harbor at Vernazza in the Cinque Terre..

Summer also brings the varied colors of seasonal produce. Food that is this colorful and beautifully displayed is its own form of art. Doesn’t it make you want to get into the kitchen and create something tasty?

And then there are the flowers of summer. They spill from pretty window boxes, climb above archways, fill gardens, and grow wild along back roads and coastlines. Nature’s blossoms delight throughout the season.

In summer, there are sure to be colorful umbrellas in piazzas and harbor-side cafes. Sitting under one you just might enjoy the bright orange of an Aperol spritz, a favorite summertime cocktail.

Do you have a favorite color of the Italian summer photo from this summer or years past? We’d love to see them posted on the Two Parts Italy Facebook page. -post by Joanne