by Marina Stein

Created on: May 07, 2010

Independence Day is a celebration of freedom and liberty of United States, and American flag is a symbol of that freedom. Traditionally 4th of July parties are decorated in the colors of the flag: blue, white, and red. However, a lot of people are unaware of the flag code. Code, for example, forbids using flag images "printed or otherwise impressed on paper napkins or boxes or anything that is designed for temporary use and discard", as well as using it "as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery". Though the code does not impose penalties for abuse of the flag - it is left to the state law, and each state has its own flag laws - it is respectful to follow the code in order to show your true patriotism. After all, what kind of respect to the flag is it if you and your guests wipe your feet on the door mat with the American flag design?

So how can you still decorate your party in patriotic colors? Obviously, you won't use paper plates, or napkins, or tablecloths with flag design. Instead, you can go with colors only or utilize designs which use stars, for example.

Red checkered tablecloth looks very festive - and all-American. Use blue plastic plates, red plastic glasses, and white plastic utensils and white paper napkins, or any other combination of colors in your tableware. Since very often Independence Day party is an outdoor event, that "picnic" feel will enhance the party atmosphere. Cleaning up will be easy, and there will be no danger of broken glass. If you live in the South and want to accentuate that fact you can use blue and red bandannas as napkins as well.

You can add some colors and fun to your party with blue, white, and red balloons. Also, the little weights with stars on the wires can be used to remind about traditional evening entertainment: fireworks. Besides, those weights will keep your tablecloth and napkins safely in place.

If you want to add a stunning centerpiece to you table, you can use candles in blue, red, and white colors, especially floating candles in a beautiful crystal or glass bowl. Another good choice for a centerpiece would be a bouquet of flowers. For example, blue bachelor's buttons, white daisies and red poppies in white vase will make a simple but effective statement. If you want to go a little more formal, choose blue delphinium, white lilies, and red carnations.

If you do want to display an American flag at your party, do it with respect to everything American flag represents - it should hang freely and never touch anything beneath it.

Source:

http://suvcw.org/flag.htm

Learn more about this author, Marina Stein.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.