Celebrating the Fourth of July
Enjoy an Old-Fashioned Independence Day Celebration
You don’t need an excuse for a good party especially when it happens in the middle of the summer and it celebrates an occasion everyone can enjoy. This year, offer to host your family’s barbecue or the neighborhood party.It's a cinch to pull together a casual get-together celebrating the country’s freedom. Plan for an evening event and get inspiration from these ideas for food, activities and décor.
Food
When it comes to feeding your guests, a gourmet meal and fancy dessert is a bit much for this type of party. With the laidback atmosphere you’re going for, a simple summertime meal is all you need. Start by grilling burgers and provide condiments and add-ons so people can dress them just the way they like. While the grill is hot, throw on some corn and fruit for flavorful, healthy side dishes. Round out the meal with warm, gooey blueberry cobbler topped with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream.
Activities
For a Fourth of July party, a schedule isn’t necessary. Dinner, of course, is an event everyone will enjoy. Otherwise, just have a variety of activities available to suit different interests. Here are a few ideas:
- If you have a pool, invite guests to wear a swimsuit and have baskets of towels, sunscreen, and floats waiting poolside.
- A bag of softballs and baseball bats might encourage an impromptu game of the all-American sport.
- For those who prefer air-conditioning, look online for fun facts about Independence Day and create your own themed game of trivial pursuit.
- To complete the celebration, hand out sparklers and take in a neighborhood fireworks display.
Décor
Decor for Fourth of July entertaining is simple if you let the traditional themes surrounding the holiday inspire you. A color palette of red, white and blue always works and you’ll find plenty of options for centerpieces, tableware and other decorations in the months leading up to the big day. If you prefer a more customized look, try pulling together a themed look from items you already have.
This example uses a monochromatic color scheme of blue but red works just as well. Keep the vibe interesting by choosing complimentary shades of color and by bringing in different patterns. Maybe you have a fun set of pale blue polka-dot dishes that would pair nicely with cobalt glasses. Set atop a blue gingham tablecloth, the combination creates a imaginative tablescape for a unique patriotic party. Accent the look with a centerpiece of navy and white striped containers. Fill them with small American flags to add just a pop of red to the look.
