what should i do for 4th of july

The 4th of July is a great time to thank the men and women (and their families) who have sacrified so much for us. You can volunteer at a VA Hospital, shop at a veteran's business, write a letter or send a care package. There are a ton of Independence Day-themed films, as well as movies that focus on America's history and American trailblazers.

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What should I do for 4th of July?

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What is your favorite thing about 4th of July?

Our Favorite Fourth of July Memories. On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress declared that the thirteen colonies of America were no longer subject (and subordinate) to the monarch of Britain and were now united, free, and independent states. Of course, these days, many of us also associate the holiday with barbecues, fireworks, parades, baseball, and other festive, beginning-of-summer activities.

Do you have to work on the 4th of July?

In the US, everyone other than those who work in retail, hospitality, emergency services, and utilities get the Fourth of July off when it falls on a Monday or Wednesday. If it falls on a Friday, some enlightened offices may give Thursday afternoon off.

What to be thankful for on 4th of July?

Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again later. Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again later. S ixteen attorneys general joined Gov. Kristi Noem's fight to restore South Dakota's Fourth of July fireworks, the latest in a more than yearlong showdown between state and federal officials.

What should I do for my 4th of July alone?

9 Ways To Celebrate The 4th Of July AloneBake All Kinds Of Patriotic Goodies. ... Deep Dive Into '90s Summer Movie Glory. ... Sleep. ... Work On That Summer Bucket List. ... Live Like Ron Swanson. ... Rock Our Nation's Colors. ... Read All The Books. ... Open A Bottle Of Wine.More items...•

How do you celebrate 4th of July?

From 1776 to the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with festivities ranging from fireworks, parades and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues.

What is the best place to celebrate 4th of July?

Best Places to Celebrate 4th of JulyOverall RankCityTotal Score1New York, NY77.512San Francisco, CA74.423Chicago, IL70.514Minneapolis, MN70.3451 more rows•Jun 28, 2021

What can couples do on 4th of July?

4th of July Ideas for CouplesFlag Raising Ceremony. ... Make a Festive Breakfast. ... Run a Freedom Run Race together. ... Plan and prepare the ultimate BBQ cookout. ... Make a Patriotic Dessert. ... Play American History Trivia. ... Head to the Lake. ... Attend a 4th of July Baseball Game.More items...•

How do Americans spend 4th of July?

The main way Americans are expecting to spend the holiday is at cookouts, barbecues and picnics, according to the NRF, so it makes sense that the largest share of spending by consumers will be on food items. Americans are expected to spend an estimated $7.52 billion this year, up from last year's $6.52 billion.

How do you explain 4th of July to children?

Explain that each part of the flag stands for something. The 50 stars stand for the 50 states. The 13 stripes stand for the 13 colonies that declared their independence on July 4, 1776. Tell the children that the flag is a symbol — a way to show the world what the United States of America stands for.

What state has the best firework show?

1. New York, New York: Macy's 4th of July Fireworks. Now in its 43rd year, the nation's largest fireworks display lights up the night over the East River.

Where is the best firework show in California?

1. Big Bay Fireworks, San Diego, CA. Big Bay Fireworks is one of the biggest Independence Day Celebrations in California. Make a reservation to get out on the water for a great view, or bring your own lawn chair and enjoy the show from a recommended location on the shore.

Where will there be fireworks this year in California?

Big Bay Boom July 4 2022 San Diego Fireworks Show This free fireworks show is expected to be the largest San Diego Firework Displays in San Diego county. Most years, the fireworks displays will be located on 4 barges off of Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Embarcadero and Seaport Village/Coronado Landing.

What should I do for my boyfriend on 4th of July?

4th of July Date Ideas (That Won't Break the Bank)Plan an outdoor picnic. ... Hit up a rooftop bar with your guy. ... Go on a romantic "getaway." Almost every town has its appeal on the 4th, so head to your local tourist hot spot. ... Bake a 4th of July cake. ... Head to an outdoor concert. ... Host a BBQ. ... Do something historic. ... Get wet.More items...•

How do people celebrate 4th of July without fireworks?

Ways to celebrate Fourth of July without fireworksBackyard BBQ – Have a BBQ and have a small gathering with close friends and family! ... Family vacation to a monument or national park – There are many monuments with historical relevance such as the Liberty Bell, Mount Rushmore and places in Washington D.C.More items...•

Is it romantic to watch fireworks?

It is easy to see why a fireworks display is a metaphor for romance and passion. Going to a fireworks display with your partner is one of the most romantic things you can do together. The sizzle, boom, and pop of fireworks are reminiscent of the same sensations of a first kiss.

Whether you want to keep things small or host an epic bash this year, these creative Independence Day ideas will make your celebration truly memorable

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Summer parties are back on the calendar!

The 4th of July is always a highlight of summer. It’s the time to be with friends and family while celebrating our freedoms and our great country.

Boost your basic BBQ

The backyard barbecue is a staple of Independence Day parties, and here’s a 4th of July idea that will take yours up a notch: Make a hot dog or burger bar with a variety of condiments that go beyond the basics. Think pickled jalapeños, shredded cheese, chili, and crushed Doritos, and add a few bottles of different types of barbecue sauce to try.

Whip up some flag-inspired food

Now is the time to embrace the kitsch. Strawberries or raspberries, blueberries, and whipped cream on top of a sugar cookie crust make an easy patriotic pizza that’s both festive and delicious.

Up your game with firecracker cocktails

Red, white, and blue firecracker cocktails? Sign us up! You’ll find vodka, blue curacao, grenadine, lemon juice, and a splash of simple syrup in this Insta-worthy beverage. The trick to getting the signature striped look? Layer each ingredient in a glass instead of mixing them together.

Include the kids with rocket pop sodas

Don’t forget about your pint-sized revelers when devising 4th of July party ideas! Forget the Shirley Temples and try this simple festive drink. Take a clear soda, like Sprite or 7-Up, and add a rocket popsicle instead of ice cubes. It’ll add just the right amount of flavor, flair, and fun.

Make candy flag apples

Candy apples aren’t just a fall treat. They also make a delicious and (kind of) healthy 4th of July dessert. Take a red apple, dip the lower half in white chocolate, and then coat the bottom section in blue sugar or sprinkles. Yum!

From the food to the fireworks to the all-American fun, there's nothing not to love about these Independence Day destinations across the U.S.A

Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. Ratings and prices are accurate and items are in stock as of time of publication.

The perfect time for a trip!

After more than a year at home, life is finally starting to feel like it’s getting back to normal. And as vaccination rates increase and restrictions around the country relax, people are looking for ways to travel safely—and soon.

Nashville, Tennessee

Been missing live music during a year of quarantine? Celebrate Independence Day 2021 in Music City with headliner Brad Paisley during the free “Let Freedom Sing!” July 4th event in downtown Nashville. This celebration will not only offer a large outdoor concert—Nashville is also promising the largest fireworks show in the city’s history.

Rochester, New York

Every 4th of July, Rochester residents gather downtown to take in the stunning sights and sit on the bridge that crosses the Genesee River to view the fireworks as they burst over the city’s skyline.

Sandestin, Florida

For a family-friendly Fourth, head to sunny Florida and the Red, White, and Baytowne celebration, where you’ll find inflatables, crafts, face painting, and live music from Donovan Keith. In the evening, a fireworks display will light up the night sky.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

No one does the 4th of July quite like Philly, one of the country’s most patriotic destinations. And where better to celebrate America’s birthday than in its birthplace? The annual Wawa Welcome America event includes several days of virtual happenings, free museum admission, concerts, and more.

Cody, Wyoming

July 4th is the biggest holiday of the year in the small northwestern Wyoming town of Cody, located in Yellowstone County. It’s so big, in fact, that it takes five days to pack in all the fun. The highlight here is the Cody Stampede Rodeo, now in its 102nd year.

1. Go To The Movies

There's nothing wrong with seeing a film by yourself, and if you go during prime BBQ time, you might be able to enjoy a pretty empty theater. It's the perfect time to kick back, enjoy some theater popcorn with no guilt, and watch In The Heights.

2. Break Out The George Foreman

If you live by yourself, you might not have invested in a big grill. You might, however, have a tiny little George Foreman grill laying around. Dust it off, and let it shine today. Just because you're by yourself doesn't mean that you have to settle for boiled hot dogs and microwaved burgers. Pot dogs? Gross. Step up your game, and treat yo self.

3. Try To Replicate Mom's Old Recipes

My tuna noodle salad would probably look like a can of dog food, if I didn't allow myself some time to practice. There is something absolutely amazing about cooking for no audience. You can really go wild, and add your own touch to old recipes that might actually help enhance the flavor.

4. Check Out The Nearest Fireworks Show

Just because you're celebrating solo doesn't mean that you're undeserving of a killer fireworks show. Fire up Google, and see what neighborhood events are happening. Nobody will question why you're alone, nor will they really care — I mean, you're all there for the same purpose.

5. Make Experimental Hot Dogs

Back in the day, a tiny place called Hot Diggity Dog existed in the middle of a Pennsylvania intersection. After going inside, I realized that the owners were intent on creating an ultimate (albeit a little strange) hot dog atmosphere.

6. Dress Up Your Pet

If you're not the type of person to run to the store for a flag shirt, consider a cuter alternative — dressing up your pets to be festive. Listen, I've had pets that hated clothes, and pets that loved clothes.

7. Invite Friends Out For A Drink

If all of your friends are tied up at family barbecues, there's a chance that eventually they'll need a reason to flee. You can be that reason! Contact some of your closest girls, and see if they're down to grab a drink later in the night.

Guests

It’s your party and you can invite however many people you want. However, there’s some unwritten rule of the universe that Fourth of July parties are the most fun when there are more than four people there. To get people excited about your soiree, plan ahead and send out some sort of invitation.

Food

Food, food, food, food, food. We’ll say it one more time: food. Maybe it’s all the patriotism that makes people so hungry, but whatever the reason, people love to eat on July 4. The good news is that this is a holiday that you can easily pull off as a potluck by asking guests to each bring a dish.

Seating

Raise your hand if this is the one thing you always forget about when hosting parties (*raises hand*). Fortunately, unless you’re throwing a formal Fourth of July get-together, you’re fine to use plastic chairs, lawn chairs, camping chairs, picnic tables and any other casual seating you can find around your house.

Beverages

This is important: You’ll want to establish upfront if your shindig is a BYOB type of deal or you’ll be providing the alcohol. It’s a holiday that many adults associate with knocking back a few, so you don’t really want people having to run out throughout the party in search of local grocery stores with booze in stock on the holiday weekend.

Entertainment

There’s just something about beating your best friend at a game of cornhole that makes you feel alive. Thanks to July’s typically sunny weather, there are tons of outdoor games you can play to stir up everyone’s competitive spirits and get them mingling.

Decorations

Trying to maintain some semblance of a budget? Hit up your local dollar store. They’ll have plenty of cheap decor in red, white and blue, along with a fair amount of Fourth of July party favors. And it goes without saying there are roughly 7 million decoration ideas on Pinterest, if you’re the crafty type.

Fireworks

Depending on where you live, it may not even be legal to purchase and shoot your own fireworks. If that’s the case, make sure you research local options and give anyone who might want to watch the pyrotechnics a heads up ahead of time. If you happen to live somewhere you can shoot off your own fireworks, don’t get crazy.

1. Watch the jaw-dropping 4th of July fireworks

If you are spending the 4th of July in NYC, you cannot get around Macy’s 4th of July fireworks! Every year, the 4th of July in New York is celebrated by launching an amazing firework spectacular, sponsored by the well-known department store Macy’s. 2021 will mark the 45th annual fireworks show illuminating New York’s skyline.

2. Take a 4th of July fireworks cruise

A unique way to see the fireworks on the 4th of July is to watch them from the water! There are several cruises that have made it their mission to provide the perfect experience. Instead of storming into the crowds on the streets, you can enjoy a much more relaxing 4th of July evening.

01 July 4th New York City Fireworks Cruise with Buffet and Live DJ

Celebrate July 4th on this New York City Fireworks Cruise. Depart for the evening to the beats of a live DJ. Enjoy a buffet style menu featuring pasta, finger foods, chicken, salad, desserts and more! Sip on an alcoholic beverage from our onboard cash bar. Grab the festive party favors provided as the firework show begins.

02 4th of July NYC Fireworks Cruise

Aboard Liberty Belle to celebrate this Independence Day in New York City. Celebrate sailing the waters and enjoy the Macy’s Spectacular Fireworks Show. All tickets include open bar and a delicious dinner. Live DJ playing top hits will keep you this Independence Day memorable along with your favorite drink. Enjoy the show of the July 4th fireworks.

03 NYC July 4th Macy's Fireworks Family Friendly Festive Boat

Your cruise will have a live DJ on 2 floors and 2 dance floors. There will be 4th of July giveaways, a light buffet, a cash bar, and fun toys for the children. While waiting for this spectacular show in the sky, you’ll see famous landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Freedom Tower, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the NYC skyline.

04 NYC 4th of July Brunch Cruise

This 4th of July brunch cruise is one of the newest boat tours where you can celebrate the Independence Day of the USA in a wonderfully relaxed way. The ship has three different decks where you can combine sightseeing with brunch.

05 New York City Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise with Lobster Dinner

Grab a front row seat for New York City’s fireworks display on this Fourth of July cruise with lobster dinner. Get an up-close look at the Manhattan skyline while digging into a buffet-style dinner with an open bar. A DJ will spin tunes on board to keep the party mood going.

4th of July Featured in

The whole state is dressed in red, white, and blue and ready to celebrate America's Independence! New Jersey is famous for its 4th of July waterfront extravaganza in Atlantic City and other great locations along the coast.

Smithville 4th of July Parade (July 4, 2021)

A historic town of Smithville in Atlantic County hosts the largest 4th of July parade in New Jersey that attracts over 10,000 people. The procession starts at 9 am on Smithville Boulevard, then heads to Moss Mill Road and turns west on Moss Mill. It features floats, marching bands, reenactment groups, and Rolling Thunder motorcycle group.

Jersey City 4th of July Celebrations (early July 2021, unconfirmed)

Jersey City hosts the most massive 4th of July celebration in the state. More than 100,000 people gather for the Freedom and Fireworks Festival in Jersey City every year.

State Fair Meadowlands in East Rutherford (June 18–July 11, 2021)

State Fair Meadowlands in East Rutherford is a great spot to celebrate America's birth! With dozens of carnival rides, live entertainment, music, games and favorite fair foods, New Jersey's biggest fair is a weekend of never-ending fun. Insert an amazing picture of firework displays after dark.

Ridgewood 4th of July Celebration (July 5, 2021)

A town of Ridgewood in Bergen County hosts an impressive morning parade to celebrate America's independence and to honor its servicemen and women. The parade is followed by a street festival and picnics lasting until dark. The evening celebration at 6 pm features live bands and culminates with a fireworks display.

4th of July Celebration at North Branch Park (canceled in 2021)

Travel back in time at North Branch Park in Bridgewater, where America's Independence is celebrated with the Revolutionary War Encampment. North Branch Park opens at 6 pm. It allows picnics on park grounds. Visitors can take a blanket, some food and enjoy the fireworks that begin at 9:30 pm.

East Brunswick 4th of July Celebrations (early July 2021, unconfirmed)

East Brunswick is especially festive during the 4th of July. There is red, blue, and white decorations all around Community Arts Center, live music, bounce houses for kids, and plenty of food vendors offering favorite treats. The event culminates with fireworks.