
Ways to Use a Ring Video Doorbell This Summer
By Ring on June 5, 2025
Summer is ripe with possibilities for fun and connection, and one smart home device that can truly elevate your experience is the Ring Video Doorbell. Beyond alerting you of any guests at your front door, this smart home device unlocks a treasure trove of creative uses that can foster connectivity, entertainment, and memories the whole family can cherish. From facilitating virtual visits with distant loved ones to adding a high-tech twist to classic backyard activities, the Ring Video Doorbell offers endless potential to liven up your summer. Here are just a few ways you can put this versatile device to work to make the most of the sunny season.
Host Virtual Visits

A Ring Video Doorbell is a great tool for staying connected with loved ones, even when you can't be together in person. By using the camera and Two-Way Talk features, you can facilitate "virtual visits" to bring your friends and family right to you. You can set up regular check-in times for out-of-town relatives or long-distance friends to see how much your kids have grown, introduce a new pet, or just catch up on each other's lives. Even though you may be miles apart, the Ring Video Doorbell helps bridge the distance and keep your loved ones connected.
For additional ways to stay connected, check out our tips to stay connected with long-distance friends and family guide.
Arrange Backyard Scavenger Hunts
Backyard scavenger hunts can be even more fun by incorporating your video doorbell. Set up the camera to capture the kids exploring the yard and using it to search for hidden items or clues. Children can use the live video feed to scan the environment and help them spot well-hidden objects around the yard. Take the game a step further by integrating other smart home features like setting up your Amazon Echo to provide audio hints and congratulatory messages to the kids as they progress through the game. Blending the traditional scavenger hunt with this smart home twist is sure to be a memorable activity.
Water Balloon Fights

Water balloon fights are a summer tradition that can create endless entertainment and memories. Use the video doorbell camera to capture friends and family engaging in epic balloon-hurling battles. Afterwards, look back at the footage together and relive the funniest moments like the looks of surprise as balloons burst. Watching the playback is sure to solidify water balloon fights as an annual warm-weather ritual. Preserving these lighthearted moments on video with a Ring Home Subscription1 allows you to revisit the joy of summer silliness whenever you need a pick-me-up.
Welcome Guests for Your Outdoor Movie Night

Summer is the perfect time to utilize your backyard to host guests for an outdoor movie night. You'll want to make sure you have the proper setup, including pillows, throws, blankets, fans to keep cool, and tasty snacks to create a cozy atmosphere. To really set the mood, consider adding string lights or lanterns around the seating area. This subtle lighting will provide a warm, inviting ambiance as the sun goes down.
After you’ve set up your outdoor theater, you can use your video doorbell to get notified when guests arrive for movie night. When guests arrive, you'll get a notification on your Ring App, along with a video feed so you can see who's at the door. This gives you the chance to welcome people personally before they head to the backyard.
Looking for tips on how to transform your backyard? Check out our guide on how to turn your outdoor space into a summer oasis.
Record a Family Talent Show
Showcase your family's hidden talents with an outdoor talent show and use your Ring Video Doorbell to record each performance. Kids can use the doorbell to announce each act, adding a fun, interactive element. Participants can strut their stuff for the audience and for the camera to look back at and share later. The Two-Way Talk feature can be used by Shared Users who may not be able to attend in person and want to give encouragement to the participants. After the show, log in to the Ring App to look back at the footage with your Ring Home Subscription1 , save it, and put together a highlight reel that the whole family can enjoy. The Ring Video Doorbell can transform a simple talent show into a polished, technologically-enhanced event that creates lasting memories of your family's summer.
The video doorbell is a versatile smart home device that can enhance summer fun in so many creative ways. With a little imagination, you can use it to stay connected, create lasting memories, and bring the whole family together this summer season.
1 Subscription required (sold separately). See Ring Subscription Plans for more information.


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