The 4th of July is a special holiday that can often bring families together in celebration. Whether you’re looking to just hang out in your backyard or plan an entire day of activities, there are plenty of alternatives this year for celebrating the Fourth of July with your family that don’t involve large public gatherings and fireworks displays.
Fireworks, hotdogs, picnics, and some patriotic music are just some of the traditional ways to celebrate Independence Day with our friends and loved ones every year. But if you think you’ve done it all and you’re looking to spice things up this year, then check out these alternative ways to honor America’s birthday. We’ve got some ideas to help make your Fourth of July festivities memorable!
1. Throw a Secret Uncle Sam
Got leftover Christmas spirit? Me too! While Christmas is not happening for a long time, you can still get inspired by the happiest holiday of the year and throw a “Secret Uncle Sam.” It’s not a carbon copy of Secret Santa by any means, but it’s a great way to spread some joy! Gather the family together and tie some red, white, and blue ribbon around carnations. Then head out and walk around the neighborhood. Hang them on your neighbor’s doorknobs, fences, and trees to spread some positivity.
2. Give Your Yard a Star Spangled Makeover
Grab some cardboard and marker and draw a star. Then cut it out with scissors or a cutter and place the cardboard stencil on the grass in your backyard or front yard. Now spray some water on the lawn with a spray bottle and then use a sifter to add flour on the stencil. Once you remove the stencil, you’ll have a white star. Now repeat the process until your entire lawn is filled with stars. It’s an incredibly easy way to decorate your backyard ahead of the big day.
3. Try Alternative Fireworks
Fireworks contain chemicals that are released into the air. They can also be a fire hazard as you and the kids can get injured if you don’t know what you’re doing. So instead of throwing a good old-fashioned fireworks show, try lighting up the night sky a different way by buying and using a laser light show projector like this one or this one. Or you can give the kiddos a couple of glow sticks and have them run around the yard waving them around. It might not be as cool as fireworks, but it will ensure everyone stays safe.
4. Have a Backyard Movie Night
If you have a movie projector, then set it up outside and when the sun goes down, gather everyone around for an epic night of Fourth of July movies. If you don’t have a projector, consider getting one. They retail for $120 and up. Throw a few pillows, blankets, or a couple of beanbags and enjoy some kid-friendly action movies such as:
- This Is America, Charlie Brown
- Night at the Museum
- The Sandlot
- The Music Man
- National Treasure
- Captain America: The First Avenger
- Annie
5. Set Up Your Own S’mores Bar
Buy a couple of your family’s favorite chocolate bars, marshmallows, and a few different types of crackers like Graham Crackers, Oreos, or any kind the kids will love, and create your very own S’mores bar. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the 4th of July and cozy up outdoors. If you don’t have a backyard, by all means, set up your S’mores bar indoors.
6. Donate to a Good Cause
What better way to celebrate Independence Day than by helping those who are less fortunate? Give your children $5, $10, or $20 each. Even if it doesn’t seem like it’s a lot, a little goes a long way. Let the kids choose a charity that’s close to their heart and make a donation in their name.
There are some great charities your kids can send their money to like World Central Kitchen, an organization that serves meals to those that can’t afford to buy food. There’s also Heart to Heart International, which sends medical supplies to over a hundred countries and financial assistance to the needy. They can also consider sending a gift to a child in need within the United States through Daymaker, or supporting Hire Heroes USA, an organization that helps U.S. military members find a job when and transition back into civilian life.
In Conclusion,
Whether it’s donating to a good cause or simply trying some alternative fireworks, make sure to have plenty of fun while celebrating America’s independence. Let’s work together to make sure we’re all celebrating safely! Have a wonderful Fourth of July! 🎆🎇🎉✨
