10 Fourth of July Activities to Celebrate the Holiday
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Break out the sparklers—the Fourth of July is almost here! Whether you’re planning a big party or just looking for a few fun things to do at home, there are so many ways to celebrate the holiday together. To help you make the most of it, we put together our favorite fun Fourth of July activities that the whole family can enjoy, plus a few on-theme pieces to shop that’ll help you pull it all together. From classic traditions like watching fireworks and going to a parade, to classic backyard favorites like water balloon fights and movie nights, there’s something for everyone.
The best part? You don’t need to spend a lot or travel far to make the day feel special. A few red, white, and blue decorations, a grill, and some good company are all you really need! And if you want to add in a few festive extras—like bike decorating, patriotic snacks, or easy crafts—we have ideas for all of that here, too. However you choose to spend your Independence Day, here’s to a star-spangled celebration!
1. Watch a Local Parade
Kick off the day with a festive Fourth of July parade. Set up some folding chairs, wave your flags, and cheer on the marching bands, vintage cars, and local heroes as they pass by. Don’t forget to wear red, white, and blue to show your own patriotic pride!
2. Go to a Baseball Game
What better way to celebrate the Fourth of July than with America’s favorite pastime? Head to a local baseball game and soak up the sun, snacks, and summery vibes. Some ballparks even end the night with a fireworks show—talk about a home run!
3. Host a Backyard Barbecue
Fire up the grill and invite your friends, family, and neighbors over for a classic cookout. Burgers, hot dogs, and corn on the cob are always crowd-pleasers, and you can finish it off with a star-spangled dessert. Bonus points for decorating the backyard with patriotic touches!
4. Plan a Picnic in the Park
For a laid-back holiday afternoon, pack a cooler, grab a blanket, and head to your local park for a picnic. Add in a few outdoor games and a portable speaker to play your favorite patriotic tunes, and you’ve got an easy, affordable way to enjoy the Fourth together.
5. Watch Fireworks
It wouldn’t be the Fourth of July without a few fireworks! Gather your friends and family for the show, spread out a big blanket, and bring along some snacks and sparklers for the perfect ending to the holiday.
6. Have a Water Balloon Fight or Play Backyard Games
If it’s a hot day, a water balloon fight is guaranteed fun for kids and adults alike. Or, if you’d prefer to stay dry, set up some beloved backyard games like cornhole and ring toss to keep the laughs going all day long. Make it feel even more festive by splitting up into red, white, and blue teams.
7. DIY Patriotic Crafts
Break out the markers, glue, and glitter for a craft session that’ll keep the little ones entertained for hours. They can decorate mini American flags, paint wooden stars, or make paper fans in red, white, and blue. It’s a fun and easy way for all ages to get into the Independence Day spirit.
8. Decorate Bikes for a Neighborhood Ride
Get creative with streamers, flags, and stickers to deck out kids’ bikes and scooters. Once everyone’s decorated, go for a little parade-style ride around the block. It’s a great way to come together as a neighborhood and get some energy out.
9. Set Up a Movie Night Under the Stars
Keep the fun going long after the sun goes down with an outdoor movie night in the backyard. Pick a family-friendly favorite, hang some string lights, and serve popcorn and s’mores. Bonus points for choosing an patriotic movie!
10. Bake Red, White, and Blue Treats
Get the whole family in the kitchen to bake something sweet. Try layered Jello cups, flag-themed cakes, or berry-filled pies that show off everyone’s favorite holiday colors. Let the kids help decorate, too—it’s half the fun!
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