In two days, we here in America get to celebrate our Independence Day. The 4th of July is the quintessential summer holiday. Like Memorial Day, this day has its own particular way to celebrate: elaborate backyard barbeques, strawberries & blueberries with whipped cream (red, white and blue), backyard fireworks (not always legal), and catching up with family you haven’t seen in a while. If you’re bored of the typical, too-easy berry desserts, Better Homes and Gardens has 18 Luscious Strawberry Dessert Recipes. Allrecipes.com has a great list of 4th of July recipes and tips for better cooking and grilling.
If you are throwing that party, it’s not too late to send invites from a pretty big selection of online invitations for that barbeque or 4th of July party. Go ahead and add music if you like to annoy your guest in advance!
Most years, my husband and I drive two hours to my cousin’s house in New York and spend the day in the pool. No backyard fireworks: in New York, fireworks are illegal for regular families. That doesn’t stop everyone; I can recall the streets in Queens, NY lined with 100’s of empty firework shells on the 5th. When we’re at home in Pennsylvania, it’s nice to live in Pennsylvania, where some fireworks are legal to set off in yards and streets.
This year, though, we are going to Florida for the Fourth. I never knew it was a cheap holiday for flying, but it is a great time to vacation. One year, my husband and I spent the Fourth in Colonial Williamsburg, VA. The fireworks were up close and lovely. Our friends had a great time at Virginia Beach, another great Fourth vacation. At the time, I too was pregnant for long, hot stretches of sand on a 100 degree day.
All of the above is great unless, of course, it rains. What will you do this holiday should it rain? You can throw an indoor party, save the fireworks for the next time it’s nice out, and turn on Macy’s Fireworks instead. I’ve been privileged enough to see them from across the river in Astoria Park, Queens, which is quite nice (and not as crowded as seeing them from the bridge or Manhattan!)
In the meantime, if you are stuck at home with little ones waiting for the sun peak out or for Saturday to roll around, here is a list of fun crafts you can do that will teach your kids something about this day. My 3 year old made a lovely flag that is hanging on our walls right now.
- Family Fun has a great list of activities. My favorite here as to be “Musical Stars and Stripes” for kids who like music.
- Kaboose always has something interesting. Love the 3D fireworks T-shirt!
- DLTK has a whole page of bald eagles your kids can create. How fun is that?
- Family Corner has a beautiful wreath you can make. That is actually more of a grown up craft, but if your kid can handle it, let him go for it!
What are your plans for the red, white and blue holiday? Share your favorites crafts and recipes (seasoned, grilled corn anyone?)
