This week is gearing up to be a big one for all of us who proudly wear our red, white, and blue – it’s the 4th of July! That means picnics, barbecues, swimming, backyard parties, and fireworks are just around the corner. 

Do you ever just feel like doing something out of the ordinary for Independence Day? I like to switch things up here and there. Our family has its usual traditions for almost every holiday, but I’m not opposed to entertaining some new ideas to add extra fun. The 4th of July is all about celebrating our amazing country, enjoying nature, and having a blast with loved ones – and there’s so much you can do with all of that!

Try These Fun 4th of July Ideas on for Size!

These 4th of July ideas might give you just the inspo you need to give your 4th of July celebrations an extra boost:

• Have an outdoor movie party. Want to keep your backyard party going after fireworks are over? Rent an inflatable movie screen and projector and give the neighborhood a private outdoor screening of a family movie favorite. 

• Enjoy America’s natural landscape. Most people I know spend the 4th outdoors, but not really enjoying everything our beautiful country has to offer. Instead of throwing a backyard bash, consider a hike on the trails, a visit to a waterfall or national park, or even a day of swimming and sunbathing on the beach.

• Craft your own decorations and accessories. You can find 4th of July decor, sparklers, centerpieces, and party gifts at almost every store starting in June, but crafting them yourself one of the most perfect 4th of July ideas for families. Grab your kids and make your own rocket cup launchers, silverware holders, patriotic pinwheels, and a firework bracelet.

• Make a photo booth for party guests. Hosting a 4th of July party? Photo booths are such a trendy thing for weddings, graduation parties, and just about any other type of celebration, and it can be really easy to throw one together. You just need a secluded and sunny spot in the yard, a simple DIY flag backdrop (this one from Curbly is adorable!), and some patriotic props (star sunglasses, Uncle Sam hats, etc.)…and some guests who want to have fun!

• Get your “free” on. A lot of attractions are closed on Independence Day, but the week of the 4th is famous for offering free admission to zoos, amusement parks, pools, and more. Many large cities have free museum days during this week too. Check out Facebook Events and local attraction websites to find out what’s near you and to plan your trip.

• Collect donations for care packages. The very best thing about America is our freedom, which isn’t possible without the selflessness of the men and women in the military. You can show your appreciation on any day of the year by visiting memorials or sending thank you notes, but this is the perfect day to have your family set up a donation collection for care packages. Shout it out on social media, in the newspaper, or on the radio that you’re collecting items for service members on the 4th. You can read through the Operation Gratitude guidelines for sending your packages.

 

What unique 4th of July ideas do you have to add to this list? What are you and your family doing for the holiday this year? Jump in the comments below and let me know!