Ideas for a Festive 4th of July at Home

The 4th of July in 2020 isn’t going to look like years past. Thanks to the coronavirus many are staying home and celebrating Independence Day with their immediate family.

I’ve written about and been pondering ways to celebrate being at home during this season. Celebrating USA’s birthday at home provides us with another opportunity to make the most of this season and turn some (what could be) lemons into lemonade.

4th of July All-American Food

It is said that 150 million hot dogs are consumed on the 4th of July every year. That’s alot of meat wrapped in bread. However why not embrace the idea of eating some of America’s most iconic summer food?

Some menu suggestions could be:

• Hot Dogs
• Ham Burgers
• Potato Chips
• Corn on the Cob
• Baked Beans
• Potato Salad
• Macaroni Salad
• Fruit Salad
• Berry (blueberry and strawberry) trifle
• Flag cake
• Watermelon
• Ice cream Sundaes in a waffle cone
• Lemonade
• American Beer
• Pie (have a pie contest if you are expecting guests!)
• S’mores around the firepit

Take a Trip Down Memory Lane

Enjoy memories the old fashioned way with pictures and photographs. Don’t have very many? Then open your digital archives and enjoy a special trip down your own memory lane with your family. Kids and adults of all ages will laugh, smile, and love celebrating your family history.

Family Fireworks

Many states allow at-home fireworks so be sure to stock up and enjoy! Some cities and towns still plan to have firework shows. With a little coordination your family can enjoy them from the safety of your own car. Can’t get away and leave your house? Then check your local listings, you may be able to live stream them on the internet.

Take a Hike

Enjoying a hike at a local state or national park is another great way to celebrate one of the many freedoms we have in this country. Get some exercise and enjoy views before having your All-American Meal.

4th of July Movies or TV

There are several movies or TV shows that are perfect for family viewing on the 4th of July. Here are a few that embody the spirit of the holiday.

• Independence Day
• Captain America
• Hamilton (premieres on Disney Plus on July 3)
• Liberty Kids (our own kids enjoyed this cartoon series for years, it’s ideal for elementary age kids)
• The Patriot
• Top Gun
• The Story of Us- The History Channel (wonderful to watch as a family with teens)
• Hidden Figures
• Forest Gump
• National Treasure
• Glory

Water Games!

If the weather is amiable enjoy some fun in the pool, sprinkler, or you could even make your own splash pad!

Relays, and obstacle courses are so much more fun when mixed with water. Warm up at the end of a full day next to an outdoor fire pit with some s’mores.

No matter what the day holds for your family I hope you can enjoy the freedom we have in our great country!

Happy Birthday U.S.A.!

With hope for you and your intentional home,