You’re planning this year’s 4th of July party for the family and don’t know where to start? Zazzle is here to help with some clever 4th of July party ideas to make the most of your next celebration. We have come up with some ideas and tips to ensure that everyone has a great time!
A Bit of History
Do you ever wonder why, exactly, we shoot fireworks into the sky every year? We know it’s tradition… but what’s the history behind this colorful display? Americans have celebrated their freedom since 1776, when the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence. In the years after the Declaration was drafted, it was read in public and marked by bonfires, musket firings, and parades to celebrate the momentous and historic moment.
According to the Library of Congress, it wasn’t until June 1870, however, that July 4th became an official federal holiday. Today, the pursuits that rule the day are celebrated all over the country with plenty of fanfare, from grand displays of colorful fireworks and backyard barbecues to patriotic concerts and parades.
How to Plan Your Celebration
Now that you know the reason for the day, it’s time to start planning your party to celebrate the holiday. Think of who you want to join you for a beer or cocktail, and who you would trust with fireworks.
Start With Décor
No matter how big or small the detail it can make a difference for any event. Hang a flag banner along the backyard fence or on the patio, place a stack of fireworks-adorned napkins on the table, and add some red, white, and blue wine charms to the glasses. Don’t forget the paper plates – why not personalize them to commemorate the occasion?
Food to Prepare
The best part of the 4th of July is the amazing barbecue food! The burgers, hot dogs, watermelon, and apple pie will fill your stomach as you sit back and relax to watch the fireworks.
- Burgers: If you’re excited to fire up the grill, be ready with a variety of options for everyone in the crowd. You might consider serving up some sliders for mess-free munching, and don’t forget a veggie option for anyone who doesn’t eat meat.
- Chicken: Stick with the classics, like fried chicken or a mouth-watering barbecue recipe for a little flavor kick. To avoid dealing with dry meat, marinate the chicken overnight so that it’s ready to go the next day.
- Hot Dogs: Make sure you have enough hot dogs and buns in case everyone wants one. You can have a condiments bar with all the toppings, so your guests can make their hot dogs just how they like it.
- Sides: The side dishes make any July 4th meal more enjoyable! Whip up your famous potato salad, grill some corn on the cob, prepare a fresh and colorful salsa, and lay out some crackers, celery, carrot sticks, and chips.
- Beverages: Keep water bottles and soda on ice and easily accessible to everyone at the party. Set up a cocktail bar with a few warm-weather favorites, like vodka, tequila, and rum. Add an extra bowl of mint, lime, watermelon, berries, and other garnishes for guests to adorn their drinks with.
Pull out the Backyard Games
Once you’ve sent the invitations, it’s time to decide what you will do at your party! Here are a few ways to make it a party to remember.
- Costume Competition: Everyone loves a good costume party! This one may be especially fun for the kids. Invite everyone to come dressed as a patriotic figure. Award prizes, like candy in cute favor boxes, to everyone who participates. Or give a surprise, like a festive t-shirt, to the most creative costume of all.
- Balloon Popping: This is one time you might be okay with the loud noise! Slide a ‘winner’ tag inside a deflated balloon. Then blow up all of the balloons (in red, white, and blue, naturally) and situate them throughout the party. Have people pop them – whoever finds the tag wins a prize!
- Neighborhood Parade: This is less of a game and more of a fun activity that everyone can enjoy. A couple of weeks before the party, let invitees know about the parade. With enough participants, you could create a small group and walk down local streets while singing patriotic songs.
- Cornhole Tournament: Lastly, why not put out your cornhole game set, and create the tournament to end all tournaments? Match family and friends as teams, and let the party begin!
Shop Officially Licensed Stores
We also have an amazing selection of 4th of July products to choose from our officially licensed stores that will make you see fireworks!
No matter what you do to celebrate our country’s Independence Day, make sure you spend the occasion with friends and family. Light the sparklers, pull out the lawn chairs, and just enjoy the day!
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in April 2019 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Lucy is a Content Specialist at Zazzle in Cork, Ireland. Originally from America, she is now settled in Ireland with her husband and Corgi-mix puppy Dug (yes, like from Disney’s UP!). It’s the simple things in life that matter, so give her a bag of M&M’s and she’s happy. She loves to relax with a good book, cozy up on the couch for a movie, or go to the park for a stroll with the family.
