4th of July Party Decor & Ideas

Independence Day is such a good way to kick off summer with a bang and this year, it falls on a weekend. What could be better!

Even if our gatherings are smaller, we’ll still be baking tasty treats, enjoying some American beer, and hanging out with the friends who have hand sanitizer and bug spray on auto-ship. Whether you’re throwing a backyard BBQ, having a chill evening with sparklers on the front porch, picnicking in a parking lot to see fireworks, or hanging out by the pool, we’ve got festive decor, menu ideas, and fun games to help you party like it’s 1776!

Decor

The best part about summer events is that you can keep things extremely casual and easy. Since you’re likely celebrating outdoors, using paper napkins and plates or plastic serve ware is more than acceptable, it’s a must, especially if you have kids running around.

You don’t need a lot of decorations to make a big impact. Free yourself from the need to drape everything in red, white, and blue. A nod to the American flag goes a long way. Consider breaking it down into non-traditional stripe and star patterns that pair well, but aren’t so on the nose. Embrace white and texture. Just a couple pops of bold colors will make the theme obvious, whether you opt for colored paper straws, patterned napkins, or a table runner. Choose one or two elements to go classic with, and then get playful with the rest!

There’s something very Americana about vintage pieces. While not specifically related to Independence day, metal signs, old tin cans, painted milk crates, burlap bunting, or worn gingham bring on the nostalgia. We’re automatically compelled to reflect on our history when we see relics in a contemporary setting. It’s both a comforting and fun way to celebrate our country’s birthday.

Lighting can make a huge difference in the mood, especially as you head into dusk. Glass lanterns can be a safe way to use candles outside, plus if you use citronella, they’ll double as bug repellant for your table. Twinkle or bistro lights also cast a cozy feeling throughout your backyard, porch, or patio. They can double as a guide wire for bunting or hanging paper lanterns.

Balloons can be a very fun way to add those pops of color in an inexpensive manner. You can fill with helium and either tie them to your porch railing, stakes in the yard, or create a balloon garland! Balloon garlands require a few different size balloons, some sticky dots (or ties, depending on where you are mounting) and no helium! You can just blow them up at home, which saves you the hassle of getting filled balloons in your vehicle or trying to rent a helium tank. Or, if you prefer your balloons in bouquets, and you live in Atlanta, you can purchase from Adelina and we’ll fill your balloons with helium for you and deliver them to you curbside. Easy-peezy!

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Food

The classic American hot dog is always a crowd pleaser. Not only is it simple to throw on the grill and cheap to feed the masses with, but it reminds us of great American pastimes like baseball. Punch it up a notch with a hot dog menu for condiments or create your own menu of special dogs. Get creative with the naming. Use puns, characters, or a reference that shows your personality.

Charcuterie boards are a brilliant idea for grazing while you’re outdoors playing yard games, jumping in and out of the pool or just lounging around the grill, waiting for the main course to get a nice charr. They hold up well in the heat and summer fruits like blueberries, strawberries, and watermelon add the perfect coloring to your spread. Add some crackers and jams, and you are good to go!

Infuse your water with fruit to give both color and a refreshing taste. Decorate your pies or cupcakes with berries, candy, or other confections, like these ice cream sandwiches dipped in red, white, and blue sprinkles.

Activities

Traditional lawn games like darts, ring toss, croquet, cornhole, and bocce ball provide endless fun for large groups, especially adults. For the more youthful, fill up water balloons or water canons, roll out the slip and slide, or fire up the sprinkler. There are plenty of ways to beat the heat, while enjoying the outdoors this Fourth!