Fourth of July Traditions
What are your favorite Fourth of July traditions? How do you make the day special? We have collected some of the best traditions below.
Parade
Ever since I was a little girl, we attended the big 4th of July parade in a neighboring city. I loved the parade so much, it motivated me to compete in pageants, just so that I could wear a gorgeous gown and a tiara and ride on a float. I did that for two summers in college and it is a great, if sappy, memory.
Today the 4th of July parade is bigger and better than ever. The floats are more elaborate, the bands are still talented, and the entries overall are better. I always look forward to the veterans marching through.
While I'm no longer donning a tiara, we always try to wear something festive and fun and, of course, red, white, and/or blue. Usually we get 4th of July shirts and hats. I have two pairs of patriotic flip flops from a dollar store. My favorite accessory is a blinking stars necklace. You'll be a hit.
We also found some fun patriotic accessories for you to take to the big event. 4th of July bandannas will keep you cool. Your kids can carry their small personal items in a cute patriotic tote bag. And if you're daring (or just a bit dorky) you'll love the sequined Uncle Sam top hat. It's a fun way to embarrass your teenagers!
We always pack our favorite waterproof picnic blanket, a hamper of munchies, lots of water and juice boxes, some poppers, sunscreen, hats, and flags
to dress the whole family in style for a steal.
Some people stake out a spot hours or even days in advance. This works, but might not be necessary.
Some cities offer paid spots on bleachers—strategically placed in the shade. We used this service a couple of times and the price was reasonable. This has the advantage of reserved seating and generally unobstructed views.
In most cities, you can get reasonably good seats by showing up just minutes before parade start time and plopping down a blanket in a empty spot. Often these places were being reserved by early parade goers who vacated them just before show time!
These are silly little things, but I'm telling you, the patriotic spray fans have saved the fun more times than I can count. We found these when we lived in subtropical South Florida. When the heat is rising and the sun is beating down, it can really wilt a good mood. Bring out these little coolers and everyone feels better. Don't leave home without them!
Don't forget to take some homemade snacks to eat during the event. We have a delicious selection of easy, portable parade recipes ready for you.
Pancake Breakfast
Our local Boy Scout troop always treated our neighborhood to a sunrise flag ceremony, followed by a scrumptious breakfast of pancakes, bacon, and juice. Our whole family would attend. It was a great way to start the 4th of July on a patriotic note.
If you're hosting an event like this for family or neighbors, we have some patriotic pancake recipes all ready to whip up.
Fireworks
It isn't the 4th of July without fireworks. And unless you live in the middle of nowhere, it's likely there is a fireworks display very close by. Most are free of charge. Find out where the fireworks will be launched and go ahead of time to scope out a great spot. No matter where we live, we have been able to find a fairly remote area—away from the biggest crowds and traffic jams—to get a great view of the show.
These after-dark event are even more fun with a little advance preparation. Anything that glows or shines is even better at night. The blinking stars necklace and flashing star wands are the perfect addition. (If you have a big crew, you can get a whole slew of cool glow necklaces for next-to-nothing each.) And don't forget to pack up some bug repellent and your waterproof picnic blanket!
Boutique
During our annual 4th of July festivities, the city also hosts a large bazaar. After the parade and a picnic lunch, we head to this area to see all the amazing artisans. There is wonderful, one-of-a-kind merchandise available.
Each year I save the Christmas and birthday money my father gives me, so I can buy a new photo from my favorite photographer who always has a booth. If you find an artist you love, this is a fun tradition that adds beauty to your home.
Picnics in the Park
Picnics are a favorite summer tradition. What better way to spend a lazy 4th of July afternoon than picnicking in a shady park?
The masses will be out today, but with a little investigation, you can probably find a hidden gem of a spot that isn't overrun by crowds. It's worth a little extra time to find a great spot you can go to year after year.
Take the ultimate picnic blanket, some outdoor sports toys, and pack up your best picnic basket. We've created some simple picnic menus to make the preparations quick and easy.
Backyard Barbecues
One of our favorite 4th of July traditions is to invite family and friends over for a big backyard barbecue. We have some traditional favorite recipes we've gathered for you to try.
Get out the backyard sports equipment and have a tournament. Better yet, cool off with a splash in the sprinklers or pool. If you have an above ground trampoline, try putting a strong sprinkler underneath. Cool!
Carnivals
When I was a child, I loved the traveling carnivals that set up shop on the 4th of July. These days—and with kids in tow—I'm not so sure. While they can be fun, I generally find them over-priced and under-staffed.
If you are thinking of venturing out to one, it might be a good idea to check the safety history of the particular company you'll be patronizing. We would rather take a different summer day to go to a more regulated, permanent amusement park. Surprisingly, the cost is often comparable.
