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The Fourth of July is quintessentially the perfect summer holiday, usually spent outdoors grilling hamburgers and hot dogs with neighbors and friends and ending the night with a giant firework display. 

If you're looking for activities to do with the whole family all day this holiday, here are some creative ways to celebrate Independence Day. From crafts and treats to quality time spent with family and friends, make this year's Fourth of July celebration one to remember.

Bake patriotic treats

What better way to start of the holiday than with some yummy treats. Treat the kids to a red, white and blue breakfast with pancakes or waffles topped with blueberries, strawberries and whipped cream. Or pull out those baking mats and whip up a sweet treat. Use food coloring and melted marshmallows to decorate Rice Krispie treats as American flags or pull out that star cookie cutter and decorate sugar cookies or brownies with red, white and blue decorations. For a nonbake option, use your star cookie cutter to cut out watermelon slices for a sweet hand-held treat.

Have a picnic

Have a traditional picnic filled with goodies. Fill a basket with sandwiches and snacks and spread a comfy blanket under a tree. Or grill some tasty hot dogs and hamburgers for a traditional Fourth of July spread. Add some fun by putting together some outdoor games like cornhole or ring toss. If your kids need to get some energy out, organize some three-legged or relay races to get them running around and exercising. 

Run around in the sprinklers 

Put on those swimsuits and turn on the waterworks. As adults we may see sprinklers as a chore, but children love splashing around as the sprinklers water the grass. Add squirt guns and water balloons for even more fun. Enjoy the sun and the giggles as you cool off with a little water adventure without ever leaving your yard. 

Organize a neighborhood car or bike parade

If you’re used to neighborhood block parties for the Fourth of July, organizing a car or bike parade can be a creative way to celebrate with your neighbors. Decorate your car or bike with signs, balloons or streamers and then ride down the street waving to your neighbors and friends. If you want some inspiration, check out this car parade for residents living in Buckner senior living communities

Get crafty

Need a break from the sun? Stay indoors and use your creative energy to make fun patriotic crafts. Pinterest is a great source for finding all kinds of fun Independence Day DIY activities for all ages. Make some paper lanterns, popsicle stick flags or some festive parade wands or pinwheels

Have a movie night

If you're not ready to call it a night after the firework show, pop some popcorn, get cozy on the couch and watch your favorite movie. Or use Common Sense Media to find a new favorite appropriate for your children’s ages. Make it a party and invite some friends and family to the show. Or see a movie under the stars by setting up a projector and screen in your back yard. 

See how the Buckner Family Hope Center™ is strengthening and empowering families.

Comments

Aimee says:
Fourth of July is one of my favorite holidays! Thank you for this list ... I'm going to do some of these activities with my nieces and nephews!

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