The Fourth of July presents us with a great opportunity to get together with friends, family, and members of the local community and reminisce about all things that make this country so great. While it may seem easy to stuff your holiday with fun and exciting holiday activities, finding something that everyone in your family can enjoy at the same time can be somewhat of a tedious task.
If you are staying local, a parade or a barbecue might just cut it but if you don’t mind traveling a bit for the festivities, the possibilities are endless. You could visit a national museum or a historical landmark, or go to the beach to beat the summer heat – there is no right or wrong way to celebrate the birth of the nation. There are plenty of ideas that you can execute from the comfort of your home too. Regardless if you are solo or flying with a group of friends and family, these are the best ways to celebrate the 4th of July.
Pay Homage at a Historical Landmark
You don’t have to be in the heart of Philadelphia or Washington D.C to find meaningful historical landmarks in this country. Many towns and cities across the nation have their own stories and landmarks to share that are deeply rooted in this nation’s history.
Mount Rushmore, Statue of Liberty National Monument, USS Arizona memorial, Biltmore Estate, and Bunker Hill Monument, are a few hotspots that exude the true spirit of this nation’s great history. So if you are looking to immerse yourself in America’s history this 4th of July, head over to any one of the historical landmarks close to you.
Read Up on American History
Spend the day with your family reading some books on American history. Take this opportunity to dive into the works of famous historical figures like Abraham Lincoln, Alexander Hamilton, or Frederick Douglass. This is a great way of reflecting on the rich history of this nation and how it came to be. Many libraries offer books for children that you can read with your little ones.
For starters, masterpieces like David McCullough’s 1776, Howard Zinn’s A People’s History of the United States, and Dee Brown’s Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee, can be a good read this holiday as they tell the story of our nation through an eclectic perspective.
Attend Fireworks Display and a Parade
Barbecue. Fireworks. Parade. Of course, it doesn’t get more authentic than those activities when it comes to celebrating the 4th of July. You might still be able to enjoy fireworks from the comfort of your home this year – in which case, don’t miss out on the fun. Check with your community center to find out what time the local parade starts and head over there with your friends and family.
Head to Philadelphia
Go back to the place where it all began. When it comes to historical landmarks, Philadelphia has more than a few. Check out the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House, Independence Hall, or the Johnson House, as it would be one of the most appropriate ways of paying homage to famous historical figures of our nation.
The weekend leading up to the 4th will see many events across Philadelphia celebrating the birth of this nation, so you might want to plan a 3-day getaway. The options for having a good time seem endless on this day with parades, street performances(both musical and theatrical), food and music festivals, games, marathons, and many more activities taking place throughout the city.
Put Together a Block Party
Americans have always had a penchant for throwing huge parties, and this passion truly comes to light on Independence day. If you are looking for another reason to mingle with your local community and commemorate the birth of this nation, there isn’t a better occasion than this. Team up with your local community board and plan a block party where everyone can come together for food, libations, live music, some friendly games, and a good time.
Bake Red, White, and Blue Desserts
If you love baking and have a family with a sweet tooth then make a display of red, white, and blue delicacies for everyone to enjoy. Use one of the many online galleries and recipes for making 4th of July desserts that will encapsulate the spirit of Independence day and your love for your family. You can pair up these treats with themed cocktails to help ward off the summer heat.
A Dog Show
If you love your pooch then why not let them in on the fun too? Attending a dog show or dressing up your furry friend in a 4th of July-themed costume is a great way to make some quality time and memories with your family this holiday. Strap a bowtie around your dog’s neck or put on a t-shirt with patriotic slogans for a party-ready look.
Plan a Beach Cookout
Heading to the beach with your friends and family is a great way to blow off some steam and make some memorable moments with your loved ones. Watch the sun set over luscious waters, crack out your bonfire stories, munch on your favorite delicacies, and sing songs that spread the essence of this holiday. You can throw a barbecue, have a jam session, dance, or play games – the possibilities are endless.
Celebrate This 4th of July With a Bang!
Independence Day is one of the biggest holidays in the United States, and as such, it calls for a great time with your friends and family. Towns and cities across the nation are filled with patriots who are eager to celebrate the birth of the nation in the very best way they know-how. You don’t have to be in a big city to make the best of this holiday, as many ideas can help you make it special from the comfort of your town. So are you ready to greet this 4th of July with a BANG?
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