Few things say summer more than the Fourth of July. But this year, how you celebrate the holiday may look a little different than in years past due to ongoing social distancing guidelines in place throughout the country. That doesn’t mean you can’t still have a fun and festive time on summer’s best holiday. Here are some simple ideas to celebrate the red, white and blue from the safety of your own backyard.
BBQ Blast-Off
Kick your Independence Day up a notch with a backyard BBQ. Whether you plan to make the essentials, like hot dogs and burgers, or are looking to flex your culinary muscles with charred vegetables or build-your-own flatbreads, nothing says summer “yum” like food fresh off your backyard grill. Need a little inspiration? Check out these fun and festive 4th of July recipes from Good Housekeeping
DIY Parade
Just because your local parade has been cancelled, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your own leisurely ride through your neighborhood with patriotically decorated bicycles and tricycles (and strollers!). Not only does this get the family outdoors and into the sunshine, the decorating part is a fun Fourth of July activity for the whole family.
Movie Under the Stars
All you need is a projector and an outdoor screen (or white bed sheet) to enjoy a movie under the stars. Popcorn and s’mores will make it the perfect night. (Don’t forget the bug spray!) Here are a few films full of patriotism and celebration of America the whole family will enjoy: American Graffiti (PG-13); Independence Day (PG-13); Stand By Me (R); Glory (R); National Treasure (PG); Lincoln (PG-13); Yankee Doodle Dandy (G); Miracle (PG); Apollo 13 (PG).
Game On
Break out the slip ‘n’ slide, set out corn hole or choose your favorite board game. Want to give it a patriotic theme? Create your own American-themed trivia game that turns some friendly competition into a learning experience. Turn it up a notch with red, white and blue themed prizes.
Camping
Set up tents and a firepit for a campout with the kids. This is a simple, low-key way to enjoy the great outdoors with your family. Cook hotdogs and roast marshmallows over the fire, tell ghost stories, sing songs and catch fireflies. A backyard campout is certain to create lasting memories for you and your children.
Celebrate with Red, White and Blue
From tablecloths and paper plates to banners, flags and flowers, make your home festive with plenty of red, white and blue. Decorating doesn’t have to break the bank — check out your local dollar store for plenty of festive and affordable balloons, decor, paper goods and more. Better yet, get crafty with your kids and make your own choosing from one of these star-spangled crafts.
Don’t Forget the Birthday Cake!
You can’t celebrate America’s birthday without a delicious dessert! From frozen to frosted to fruit-filled, your family will flip for one of these sweet treats. After baking some of the best cupcakes, brownies, and 4th of July cakes, the whole family can join in on the festive decorating — or even compete in a friendly bake-off.
Of course, you might still be able to enjoy some fireworks safely from your home this year — in which case, don’t forget to sit back and enjoy (and practice good fireworks safety)! No matter how you plan to celebrate this year, we wish you and yours a safe and joyful holiday.
