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For many families, 4th of July celebrations are going to look a little bit different this year. Some communities are scaling back their para...

How to Celebrate the 4th of July in Your Backyard

For many families, 4th of July celebrations are going to look a little bit different this year. Some communities are scaling back their parades and fireworks displays, while others are cancelling them completely.

Here are fun, festive and most importantly, safe, ways you can celebrate from the comfort of your home. Find small-batch recipes, clever ways you can connect with your community and a whole bunch of ideas for backyard family fun.

Small-Batch 4th of July Recipes

Crispy star pops

Food is definitely one of the best parts of the 4th. And while we’re not heading to a potluck this year, we still plan to enjoy all of our favorite dishes.

How to (Safely) Celebrate with Family and Friends

Girls with chalk coloring American flag on sidewalk

Trust us—we’re missing the block parties and family reunions, too. But there are still many ways to celebrate with a small group! Here’s how to stay connected.

  • Organize a Neighborhood Parade: If your community’s annual parade was cancelled, put together a smaller version with your neighbors. Let the kids go to town making signs, decorating their bikes and dressing up in patriotic garb. Then, make your way around the block at a specific time, honking, waving and wishing everyone a Happy 4th. Just make sure to keep your social distance from other parade participants.
  • Swap Sweets: Spread a little cheer to a trusted neighbor or family member by dropping off a tin of treats. These 4th of July cookies are a sweet place to start!
  • Show Off Your Spirit: Who says neighborhood decorating competitions have to be for Christmas? See who can put together the most patriotic house on the block. We’re talking flags, bunting, chalk art and red, white and blue lights. Award a small prize to the winning family.

What to Do on the 4th of July

Black mother and daughter celebrating 4th of July

The grill is lit and the drinks are cool—now it’s time for some good ol’ fashioned fun. These ideas will keep your gathering going all day (and night!) long.

  • Enjoy Some Friendly Competition: Get ready to name a family corn hole champ. Spend some time playing yard games with your crew.
  • Put Together a Playlist: Every holiday needs a soundtrack! And the 4th of July is no exception. Round up some feel-good summer tunes and blast ‘em all day long. Our top picks? Surfin’ U.S.A by the Beach Boys, Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffet and Chicken Fried by Zac Brown Band.
  • Bring the Beach to Your Backyard: If you can’t make it to the beach this July, bring the beach to you! Our how-to guide outlines everything you need.
  • Get Glowin’: No fireworks show this year? No problem. You can still (safely) celebrate at home with glowsticks, a bonfire or some sparklers. Just make sure you check local regulations, first.
  • Watch a Patriotic Movie: Set aside time to watch a holiday film as a family—we suggest the new Hamilton movie dropping on Disney+ July 3. And bonus points if you set up your theater in the backyard! Here’s how.

Patriotic Recipes for Your 4th of July Cookout
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The post How to Celebrate the 4th of July in Your Backyard appeared first on Taste of Home.



Katie Bandurski