Independence Day is just around the corner! While this hallmark halfway point of summer can be filled with fun, it’s tough to find activities that are engaging enough for both adults and kids.
While you’re planning this big day, we’ve put together an article exploring some of our favorite all-ages activities you and your family can participate in before night falls and the fireworks begin.
In most cases, moms are responsible for every aspect of an all-day event, from the planning to the cooking to the hosting. All these responsibilities can add unnecessary stress, so take some time to relax before your big party by hitting the trails with your family. Hiking offers something for everyone, whether it’s pointing out all of the cool, funky fungi or just taking time to breathe, relax, and enjoy your surroundings.
Before you head out, make sure you have the right gear! You don’t want to end your 4th of July with a twisted ankle, after all. We love Merrell’s hiking boots (currently on sale for $65), this hiking/camping backpack from REI ($179), and this easy-to-carry bladder bag from Walmart, which is just $19.
Whether you have a pool in your backyard or you’re planning to hit up the local public pool, spending time splashing around is a great way to spend time with loved ones and help the kiddos get their energy out. Check out this patriotic water wheel ($165) to celebrate the holiday in style.
Invite the neighborhood over for a delicious family-style potluck! You’ll save some time because you won’t have to cook everything, and your kids can catch up with other kids in the neighborhood!
Stock up for the gathering by loading up on sturdy picnic plates (these compostable options are on sale for $23) and eco-friendly disposable silverware ($15.99).
Kiddos and adults alike can get into the holiday spirit with a 4th of July tie-dye celebration! You can ask guests to bring their own plain t-shirts, socks, or other clothing items to tie-dye with these super easy-to-use Americana tie-dye kits ($9.89).
Most amusement parks offer holiday deals, so check promotions at your nearby amusement parks. Many amusement parks also do after-dark fireworks, which can be especially fun to watch from the top of a Ferris wheel. Before you head to the park, see if you can bring your own food — doing so can seriously help you save some cash.
Festivals, parades, and park celebrations all provide tons of opportunities to enjoy live music. If you’ve got little ones in tow, be sure to protect their still-developing ears with noise-canceling headphones like these Zohan ones, which are currently on sale for $25.
If you’re already planning to see fireworks with your family, it makes sense to go early and pick a great spot to enjoy a picnic while you wait for the show to begin. Everyone who attends fireworks shows knows how chaotic and packed they can become! Little ones will love helping you pack a traditional picnic basket ($14.52), and you’ll love getting to kick back and relax with your family. Depending on how early you go, you can also turn your pre-fireworks picnic into a family game afternoon. Check out this blog for some of our favorite family-friendly board games!
Who said that you have to watch a movie inside? Create an exciting at-home movie experience for you and your children. All you need is a projector and a projector screen. If you don’t have either one, you can snag this one ($230). It includes both a projector and projector screen!
Another idea (if you have the space) is to set up separate movie areas, one for adults (that’s still family-friendly) and one for children.
Learning about United States history is a fantastic way to celebrate the 4th of July. While you can find historical landmarks across the country, it can be especially fun to visit landmarks that celebrate the start of America, such as those in Boston, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. If you can’t afford or don’t have time to plan a trip, you can find tons of affordable games online, like this one, that help kids learn about different historical landmarks in the United States. Some websites even offer free virtual tours of historical landmarks, including The White House, Yosemite, and the Statue of Liberty!
From patriotic cakes to red, white, and blue fruit skewers, there are tons of ways you can bring patriotic fun into your kitchen. We love these red, white, and blue Rice Krispie treats, this beautiful fruit pizza, and this show-stopping tie-dye cake.
4th of July is all about having fun and celebrating with friends and family, not making stressful trips to the grocery store. We hope that these ideas have inspired you to take it easy this year and just enjoy the time you have with the people you love most. If you’re looking for more 4th of July-inspired ideas, be sure to check out this article. You can also join our Facebook community for real-time product recommendations and alerts on upcoming deals and discounts! We hope to see you there!
