This year marks 245 years of freedom for the good, old U S of A. The fourth of July, or Independence Day, is a commemorative holiday for everyone in our nation to celebrate the freedom we love together. From red, white and blue apparel to fireworks and barbeques, the joy that the 4th brings is quite endless. Whether you plan on celebrating at home or heading out to a family gathering, celebrating the 4th should be on your agenda in some way.
Here are our favorite essentials to celebrate the 4th of July.
Fireworks and sparklers light up the night.
No matter where you’re located, fireworks are a must. Whether you can purchase them yourself at a local shopping center or have to venture out to see a fireworks display in your area, fireworks are synonymous with 4th of July festivities. Sparklers are the perfect family-friendly option for backyard parties and barbeques as they provide just the right amount of firework fun without feeling too over the top for your guests. If you prefer to take in the display from afar, consider adding a fireworks display to your agenda for the 4th. Invite friends and family, grab a few blankets and a picnic basket filled with picnic in a tube essentials, snacks and treats, sit back and enjoy.
Food platters are an easy and delicious way to please a crowd
If you are hosting the 4th of July celebration this year, food platters are the best option when it comes to feeding a large crowd. Diverse and delicious, platters cater to everyone from children to adults. Consider starting off with platter appetizers like cheese and crackers, fruit and yogurt dip or a charcuterie board inspired platter. For the main course, whether you opt for the barbeque theme or something fancier, consider building your own style platters where you provide the meats along with various toppings, sauces and sides. Some of our go-to ideas include a build your own burger platter or a seafood platter. Desserts can be in platter-style too. Get creative with your options and indulge in dessert ideas like a build your own sundae bar or a s’more platter with all the fixings.
Don’t shy away from barbeque.
When we think of barbecue sun, warm weather and good vibes are at the top of our minds. From the scent of charcoal to the taste of the freshly grilled burger, nothing says summer like a barbeque. Don’t feel the need to avoid the idea of barbeque for the 4th thinking that it's too cliche for the day. If anything, barbeque is the best option to celebrate the day. Grill up burgers, add some char to your hot dogs and cook steak to the perfect amount of pink (or no pink!) for your guests. Don’t forget the sauces and sides to compliment the meats on the grill. Celebrate the grillmaster by outfitting them with 4th of July gifts like a new apron, a grilling tool set or a refreshing, cold beer. Speaking of beer- don’t forget all the red, white and blue themed drinks you can share with others. Our favorite is the red, white and boozy margarita from Delish.
Outdoor games keep everyone entertained.
Whether you’re looking to make a splash in the pool or want to deck out your backyard for the festivities ahead, don’t forget the games. Classic yard games include cornhole, horseshoes and ladder toss. If you don’t have the extra space for ground games, consider stacking up the board games for a night of fun for everyone. If you do have a pool, grab some of your favorite floats to commemorate the day and add to the water fun.
USA-themed outfit options are a must.
If there was a day to be extra patriotic, the 4th is it. Wherever you decide to celebrate, dress the part. Go head to toe in red, white and blue clothing options or take the subtle route by opting for a USA hat, red star glasses or a nice red, white and blue necklace. The outfit options that fit the theme are endless. From beachy casual to a classic, but contemporary twist on formal wear, you can incorporate the country’s color in your wardrobe in whatever makes you feel the most comfortable, beautiful and patriotic.
The 4th of July is a day to come together with friends and family to celebrate all of the freedoms, rights and responsibilities we have as American citizens. Share your favorite things about life in America on social media, snap photos with your friends and commemorate the day with fireworks, barbeque and outdoor fun.
