Who doesn’t love a good 4th of July celebration? The food, the fun, the patriotism, the friends and family…and of course, the fireworks! The 4th of July is the perfect holiday for getting together and having a blast outdoors. But rather than hosting the same old backyard barbecue this Independence Day, why not spice things up a bit with one of these unique takes on the 4th of July party? They’ll make this year’s celebration of our nation’s birthday one to remember.
1. Gone fishing! What could be more quintessentially American than following in the proud tradition of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn, and going fishing? Many cities allow license-free fishing in park ponds and streams, as a way to encourage families to spend more time together in the great outdoors. Whether they’re catch-and-release ponds or the real thing, friends and family members young and old will have a ball relaxing in the shade of a tree as they wait for a bite – and then scrambling with excitement when someone hooks a big one!
Slather on the sunscreen, and bring lots of antibacterial wipes for hands messy from bait and fish. Pack a lunch to share at a nearby park table, and don’t forget the patriotic plates, cups, and napkins to complete the All-American atmosphere.
2. Put on a pet parade! Parades are an essential part of any town’s 4th of July festivities. But why deal with the heat and the crowds, when you can hold your very own patriotic pet parade in the comfort of your own backyard?
Invite some friends and family, or even the whole neighborhood, to take part in a fun and festive display of 4th of July spirit. Ask everyone to dress their pet – and themselves – in red, white and blue, and then come over for a parade and a party! Every pet is welcome, from dogs and cats to hamsters and parakeets – and the more outrageous or funny the outfit, the better!
Set up a seating area for those watching, and mark a parade route for the participants. You could even give a prize to the best-dressed! Afterwards, invite everyone to a good old-fashioned 4th of July backyard cookout, complete with decorated tables and festive tableware.
3. Picnic by starlight! Of course, the highlight of every Independence Day is the city fireworks display. There’s not much that’s more exciting for kids than driving out to a good viewing spot and playing with glow sticks in the dark, while they wait with growing anticipation for the show to begin.
So why not make the fun and excitement last as long as possible? Invite family and friends, and then meet up at your viewing spot early, to make sure you’ll have room for everyone. Spread a patriotic tablecloth or blanket on the ground, and share a picnic dinner as the sun goes down. Provide the kids with plenty of glow sticks and other outdoor toys to keep them occupied until the fireworks begin - and then sit back, and let the oohs and ahhs begin.
Hosting a unique 4th of July party is a sure way to make lasting memories with your friends and family. Check out My Paper Shop’s wide selection of patriotic party supplies to make it perfect.
