Wave the American flag high, it is the 4th of July, time to break out the red, white and blue and throw the best summer bash. This is the holiday to celebrate America. To be thankful for the freedoms we enjoy here in the U.S.A. So with our flag waving in the hot summer air and our red, white and blue displayed proudly, lets get this party started.
Think traditional family fun. Invite your family and friends to a cook out by the lake or beside the backyard pool. Be sure you let your company know to dress casual and bring swim wear. For the lake have life jackets, fishing poles ,bait , flotation devices and beach balls. If you have to use the pool, again have beach balls and flotation devices already in and around the area. Have plenty of outdoor games on hand for them to enjoy. Your guests can swim, fish or play traditional yard games, such as volleyball, croquet and bean bag toss. The children should have a play area of their very own, possible a special table and toys, appropriate for the ages that will be in attendance.
On the grill, plenty of hamburgers and hot dogs. Of course no cook out is complete without loads of potato salad, baked beans and plenty of chips. Break out the ice cream freezer and make some home made ice cream for dessert. And no July 4th is complete without watermelon, have plenty sliced and ready. In a large wash tub full of ice have plenty of sodas and bottled water. Keep things simple with paper plates, cups and plastic utensils. Have a designated place for trash and everyone can help themselves through the whole process of eating and cleaning up.
The highlight of the party, the firework display, please check with your state for what is legal in your area. Have plenty on hand and a few people who can safely set them off. Have a seating area, with lawn chairs and blankets, pre-arranged for the perfect view. Let the fun begin, with an evening full of firework display and sparklers. For the little ones have plenty of glow sticks in traditional July 4th colors and red, white and blue beads to get even the youngest in the holiday spirit.
For a unique twist to the party have some disposable cameras on hand for guest to take pictures of the days events. These can be developed and shared with family and friends, long after the July 4th bash has passed. These pictures can also be used for next years July 4th bash as original invitations, who knows this may be so much fun you want to start a new tradition.