Happy Birthday USA – How to Celebrate Independence Day

There are all kinds of ways to celebrate Independence Day. You can go the traditional route and have a picnic or cookout, or you can get creative by singing songs, putting on historical plays, or making your own decorations. If you’re looking for ways to celebrate Independence Day, here are some ideas.

1. The picnic

Make this traditional Independence Day celebration your own unique experience. Make a red, white and blue berry cake and bring along a red, white and blue picnic blanket or tablecloth. You can even lay out three different tablecloths or blankets to get the effect. Pack all-American food like apple pie and potato salad. There are all kinds of picnic themes that would fit the celebratory mood, from a period costume party to a 1950s-style “Americana” picnic.

At the picnic, play some appropriate games. Fly a patriotic kite (weather permitting), or play the American game of baseball. Frisbee is another popular picnic game.

2. Decorations

You can decorate your house inside and out to celebrate Independence Day. Strings of lights aren’t just for Christmas; in red, white and blue they make a festive summer decoration for the occasion. Fly the flag in your yard or porch. You and the kids can make decorative crafts, such as red, white and blue paper chains or window stickers. Other ideas include:

* Pinwheels on stakes in your yard in red, white and blue or flag patterns

* Red, white and blue paper lanterns

* Red, white and blue balloons tied to your mailbox, porch, or other area of your home and property

* Red, white and blue streamers in your house or porch

Just remember to be responsible with your outdoor decorations – it definitely does not show appreciation for your country if you litter!

3. History

See if there are any celebrations in your community that are historical. There might be re-enactments to attend, or activities to participate in. You might even want to organize such an event yourself. In your own family, you can celebrate the history of Independence Day by having family members read sections of the Declaration of Independence aloud. Check your local library for books you can read aloud to your kids, or that older kids might enjoy reading themselves.

4. Fireworks

As long as you are not in violation of local or state laws, setting off some colorful fireworks can be a lot of fun. Just be considerate – think about your neighbors, and don’t set fireworks off too late in the evening. Also remember to be safe – be sure you have all the proper equipment, and keep any such items out of children’s hands. Make sure everyone is at a safe distance when you set them off. Have a fire extinguisher handy.

In lieu of fireworks, you can set off sparklers and other fun items that snap, spark, or otherwise produce a sparkling effect without the concerns of fireworks.