July 02, 2020
Here's how you can safely celebrate this summer.
With July 4th right around the corner, you might be wondering how to celebrate in quarantine. A typical day would be filled with food, fireworks and festival fun, but just because events are canceled doesn’t mean the holiday is. Here are five innovative ways to commemorate America’s independence this summer.
1. Host a Backyard Barbecue
Nothing says Independence Day quite like spending time outdoors. While your city may still be under strict stay-at-home orders, you can still enjoy time outside with a backyard barbecue. From burgers and hot dogs to watermelon and pasta salad, cook up your favorite summer dishes on the grill and end the night with a DIY ice cream bowl station. If your city permits family gatherings, invite relatives over or close friends who live in the neighborhood to join in the celebrations. Consider putting tables or blankets six feet apart for each household to eat safely. A barbecue isn’t complete without entertainment, so set up games for kids and stream music for the adults. If your wifi signal isn’t strong enough to play tunes in your backyard, consider purchasing a wifi extender beforehand.
2. Have Your Own Light Show
It wouldn’t be the 4th of July without a light show. While fireworks may be canceled, you can still create your own fun with sparklers. Find them at your local hardware store or retail stores like Target, Walmart and Party City. Depending on the size of the sparkler, it may burn anywhere from 30 seconds to 3.5 minutes. Take into account how many people will be present and provide each guest with one to two sparklers so everyone can partake in the fun and snap a postcard-worthy picture. If you have young kids, consider purchasing some confetti poppers as a safer alternative.
3. Go Camping
If you’re looking to get away for the weekend but want to stay safe, spend a night under the stars with your family or friends. With festivities canceled, you won’t have to worry about missing out on any of the fun back at home. Let the stars be your light show and your campground be the setting for your barbecue. Trade your grill for a bonfire and American anthems for ghost stories. Celebrate our great nation and its natural beauty the way it was meant to be.
4. Enjoy a Picnic at the Park
Pack your favorite sandwiches, salads and desserts and head to your local park to enjoy the day under the summer sun. While the kids frolic around the grass, parents can enjoy reading, relaxing and enjoying some much needed quiet time. Don’t forget a family-sized blanket, sunscreen, utensils, paper towels and an extra grocery bag for easy cleanup. As cities slowly ease up on stay-at-home orders, check the park website before leaving home to make sure it’s open and seating is permitted.
5. Spend Time by the Water
Whether you live near a lake, river or beach, there’s no better place to celebrate America’s independence than by the open water. Sunbathe on the shore, or spend the day out on the water surfing, floating or enjoying a leisurely boat ride. Keep an eye out for boats decorated in true holiday style and watch as the July 4th parade takes to the sea.
Whether you stay home or venture out around our great nation, stay safe, have fun and remember to enjoy all your burgers, buns and barbecue delights.
