10 Fourth of July Activities That Are Fun for the Whole Family
Do you dream of an old-fashioned celebration with a parade, block party, and other Fourth of July activities? It's easy and fun to get everyone into the spirit of the holiday—and it can be inexpensive, too. Add in a little history lesson while participating in kid-friendly activities to get the whole family engaged. Here are 10 suggestions for an unforgettable, but easy 4th.
More: Fireworks Safety
Plan a Neighborhood Block Party
Fourth of July is a great time to get together and socialize with friends and neighbors. A great way to get to know your neighbors better is to help organize a block party. Usually, local police departments are willing to drop off traffic cones to slow traffic, and you can let all the kids get together and play in the street. Set up food tables for everyone to contribute to, a simple craft station with easy Fourth of July crafts and coloring pages, one yard for patriotic games and another for sprinklers or water balloons and you have the makings of an easy July party!
Fun Fourth of July Games
Throw together some easy 4th of July games that the whole family can get behind. Some ideas are July Bingo, Ring Toss, Scavenger Hunts, and Tic Tac Toe with Red and Blue markers. You can get competitive with a water balloon toss or backyard bowling.
Light Up the Night
When it gets darker instead of a firework show you can light up the night with sparklers or glow sticks. The perfect way for little ones to celebrate America’s birthday without the loud bangs! Glow sticks and sparklers are also fun at dusk, which means you don’t have to let little ones stay up way past their bedtime.
S’mores Bar
S’mores are a classic summer activity, making them a perfect addition to your July party. Sprinkle a little blue and red sugar onto your marshmallows for a festive stars and stripes s’more experience.
Go on an American Flag Hunt
Around this time of year, American flags begin to pop up all over the place. Whether a walk through the neighborhood or a drive through town, have your family compete for how many flags they can spot. This is a great opportunity to talk with your kids about the importance of our flag and why it is a symbol of American history.
Visit a local Fireworks Show
If your town, or one close by, is hosting a fireworks show, this is a great way to celebrate Independence Day. Your little ones will be mesmerized by the bright colors and over-the-top explosions that they only get to experience a few times a year. If your little ones get nervous with loud noises, be sure to pack some noise-canceling headphones so they can still enjoy the excitement that comes with fireworks displays.
Backyard Barbecue
Nothing says Fourth of July quite like a backyard barbecue. You can easily have a classic BBQ with the grilling of hot dogs and burgers, watermelon, and unlimited lemonade. Make some red, white, and blue cupcakes for dessert. Add in some fun backyard games and you have yourself a great Fourth of July cookout.
Fourth of July Crafts
Easy DIY July crafts are an easy way to get kids involved in the holiday. You can make popsicle stick flags, q-tip fireworks, or paper plate wreaths with very little preparation. If you’re worried about a mess, set up a station outside where you can easily hose down the paint and glue afterward. If you’re looking for ideas or a tutorial, we’ve gathered 5 Easy Fourth of July Crafts for you. Little ones will be proud of their patriotic craft and excited to show it off.
July Desserts
Kids love an easy “cooking” project, and desserts are a great way to get them involved. Some easy ideas are Red and Blue Jello with whipped cream on top, a cupcake decorating station, yogurt parfaits with strawberries and blueberries, star-shaped cookies, and white chocolate dipped pretzels with blue and red sprinkles.
July Songs
Kids love songs and music, and they are a fun way to teach a little bit about this holiday. You can easily find easy songs and fingerplays about our flag, fireworks, and red white, and blue. If it’s a catchy tune, even the grownups will want to join in! The Star-Spangled Banner is always a good go-to for Fourth of July celebrations!
