Ready to have a fun and happy 4th of July? Keep reading!
Red, white, and blue! It is that time of the year when you let patriotism shine. From fireworks to family-time, explore the best tips to ensure a happy 4th of July this year and every year. Here are my tried and tested best tips for July 4th that are fun for family or friends. Let’s get started!
Independence Day is one of the most popular holidays observed in the United States. This federal holiday marks the Declaration of Independence being accepted on July 4th, 1776. Over the decades, it has become an occasion to spend time with friends and family and 87% of Americans celebrate 4th of July. This is partially because it’s a US bank holiday, and many employers give the day off. It’s also partially because the 4th of July is just a fun holiday in general.
Are you the kind of person that wants to create the best holiday experiences for your loved ones? I see you and I know that it is no easy feat to make sure that everyone has an amazing time. That’s why I have listed a selection of thirty ideas that will help you deliver a successful and happy 4th of July celebration.
How much do 4th of July celebrations cost?
Trust me, a happy 4th of July event doesn’t come cheap but there are ways to minimize costs and stick to budget options that are just as great. The celebration costs a whopping $9.5 billion, and I am flabbergasted!

That’s a lot of money for one day!
There’s a lot of hype around the 4th of July. If you ever find that you end up short on funds when July 5th rolls around, know that Net Pay Advance can help cover you until your next payday.
In this list, I have 30 affordable fun 4th of July activities to make your celebration sparkle while keeping your wallet happy.
30 tips for a happy 4th of July
These are some of my tried and tested tips for a superb 4th of July celebration and I hope you’re able to pick a few and enjoy them as well.
1. Conduct a family treasure hunt this 4th of July

Who doesn’t like to retrieve treasure? Even grumpy aunt Marge will want to get into detective mode and solve clues. This is one my most favorite 4th of July games and you can even make it a patriotic themed event. Make a treasure map, leave clues all over your home or yard, split up into teams, and start the hunt. The winner, or winning team, walks away with a special prize!
2. Make patriotic DIY decor

Yes, you can buy patriotic decor for your home, but you can also have a wonderful time doing some DIY projects with your friends or family. I love freedom decor and it is one of my must-haves for a happy 4th of July party. Creating themed decor with friends and family is a terrific way to kick-start 4th of July activities.
3. Patriotic platter for the foodies

Don’t you just love themed food? You can never go wrong with it. The internet is a massive resource when it comes to food ideas. From popsicles to desserts, there is so much to play around with. Did you know that 41% of Americans serve ice cream on 4th of July? A happy 4th of July celebration always has great food options and curating the perfect patriotic platter is among my top 4th of July activities.
4. Enjoy Fireworks

I can’t really make a 4th of July activities list without including fireworks. 65% Americans say that fireworks are at the top of their 4th of July activities list. When it comes to fireworks, you could see if there are large group events in your area, or you could consider setting off your own fireworks display at home.
If you choose the latter, have fun enjoying fireworks while practicing safety. On average each year, there’s about 10,200 people that go to the ER for 4th of July firework-related injuries, and about 38% of them are burns. Have a blast with fireworks but do it safely. Check out some of these tips to keep 4th of July safe.

5. Indulge in pool or lake 4th of July activities

I have a lot of fun at the lake with my family on most sunny days. If you have access to a pool, you can make a day out of it. There are plenty of water-based 4th of July games for all different ages and abilities. My family always loves a good pool floatie race!
6. Hold a pie-eating contest

Add pie-eating contest to your 4th of July games list. Get a bunch of mini pies and watch your loved ones attack them with gusto! The winner wins a prize and of course, bragging rights!
7. Dress up for the occasion

Go all out and dress up in your best patriotic outfit. Involve your kids and pets too! The best dressed person or pup wins a treat.
8. Challenge your friends to freedom trivia 4th of July games

Brush up on your knowledge about our great country and have a trivia event with your loved ones. When looking for competitive 4th of July games or 4th of July activities, freedom trivia is an easy pick.
9. Bake with the littles

For me, a happy 4th of July involves the littles in my family. That’s why I encourage you to do the same when planning 4th of July activities. If you have young kids or teens, this might be a great bonding experience. You could even do it with other adults. Spend quality time creating magic out of your oven!
10. Make tie-and-dye freedom shirts

I love a good tie-dye project! It is always a fun activity to do with friends or family. Include it on your 4th of July activities itinerary and create some patriotic freedom shirts!
11. Have a cookout or barbecue

I love cookouts where you get to have your family and friends over. It sure involves some planning but overall, it is so worthwhile putting in the effort. People across America indulge in great food as part of their 4th of July traditions with 66% serving burgers, 64% serving hotdogs, and 50% serving corn on the cob. Some of my best memories are from joyful and happy 4th of July family gatherings that include good food! Why waste a perfect opportunity to have some?
Did you know that 47% of families serve chicken, 42% serve ribs, 32 serve kebabs, and 31% serve sausage or bratwurst on 4th of July? If you’re among the 70% of Americans who own a grill or smoker, this is your time to shine!

12. Plan a picnic or weekend getaway

Did you know that 68% of Americans prefer 4th of July activities to include a grill out, barbeque, or picnic? Plan a picnic with your loved ones or take off for the weekend depending on what works best for you. If you’re looking for food ideas for a picnic, remember that 28% of Americans serve potato salad, 28% serve grilled pizza, 27% serve coleslaw, 26% serve grilled vegetables, and 15% serve seafood on 4th of July.
13. Attend a 4th of July parade

I am a sucker for parades. From St. Patty’s Day to Thanksgiving, I have them all mapped out. Find out if there’s one close to you or within a reasonable distance. I promise you’ll love it as you have a happy 4th of July.
14. Check out local 4th of July events

Depending on where you live, you can have a super fun and happy 4th of July experience at a local event. It is always great to see the community come together to celebrate a holiday.
15. Create thoughtful patriotic party favors

If you’re having friends and family over, it might be a good idea to send them home with a little something. I’m into handmade soaps and candles. You can try other things such as patriotic baked goods or potpourri. Dress up your favors in the freedom colors to make them themed.
16. Organize a 4th of July game championship in the yard

Like to spend time outdoors? Set up yard games and challenge your friends and family to compete in a happy 4th of July games contest. A cornhole competition is an easy game to consider.
17. Thank a veteran

Remember to express your gratitude to the brave people who spent their lives protecting us and defending our rights. Write a card to a veteran or thank them in person.
18. Do a good deed

Fun and frolic aside, the 4th of July could be an opportunity to give back to your community. Donate to your nearest shelter or food bank. Volunteer at an animal shelter. There are always scores of areas that need help.
19. Go on a hike or bike ride

This one is for those who love to combine their love for fitness with their love for the outdoors. Go on a hike or bike ride with your friends or family and be one with nature. Use the day to discover the beauty of America.
20. Come together for a 4th of July block party

Band together with your borough’s best and throw an epic block party. It is a great way to get to know the people you live by and have a fun day with food, conversations, 4th of July games – all the hallmarks of a happy 4th of July celebration.
21. Go camping

My outdoorsy friends tell me that camping with their loved ones is how they make the best memories. If you’re going to add camping to your 4th of July activities, be prepared with food, supplies, a first-aid kit, bug spray, all of it. I haven’t tried out the great outdoors, but I’ve heard it’s great…depending on who you ask!

22. Fly the American flag

What could be more patriotic than our star-spangled banner! Fly the American flag with pride and have a happy 4th of July.
23. Support small businesses

If you’re going to be shopping, why not shop local? I try and buy from small businesses, especially for holidays. Quality products and great service always! If I want to have a happy 4th of July, I’d want my local business owners to have the same.
24. Host a 4th of July game night

As a board games enthusiast, I can’t recommend this enough. Take this weekend to host the ultimate happy 4th of July games championship with your family and friends.
25. Watch a movie

Popcorn, drinks, a patriotic movie, and awesome company. That’s all you need to turn a mundane evening into an epic movie night.
26. Send a care package to active-duty personnel

Did you know that UPS offers free kits that you can send to service members at no additional cost? Seize this opportunity to send a loved one a package that reminds them of home.
27. Create freedom themes cocktails

Why not make special drinks for the occasion? Think grenadine for red and curacao for blue. These patriotic drinks are bound to be a hit and make it a happy 4th of July special! Also, the 4th of July is the top beer-drinking holiday and about $3.9 billion is being spent on that day alone.
As always, I strongly recommend practicing safe drinking practices because 39% of 4th of July road accidents are caused due to driving under influence. Ensuring friends and family get home safe will ensure you have the opportunity for happy 4th of July events for years to come.
28. Play a competitive 4th of July game of football

What says family more than a friendly (or not so friendly) game of flag football! Break into teams and may the best one win!
29. Visit historic places

If you’re able to take a trip to visit a place of historical significance, this might be the best weekend to do so. Make plans in advance and be sure to enquire about holiday hours and availability.
30. Shop clearances for next year

Every smart shopper knows that seasonal items end up in clearance with massive discounts. That’s why shopping after a holiday is always an excellent way to prepare for the next year. From decor and party supplies to grilling kits, you’ll be amazed how much you can stock up on and save. Try stores in your area and look online for the best clearance selections.
Honorary 4th of July activities
Fly a kite!

This is more of an honorable mention, but I love flying kites when the weather permits. July is usually a great time for this and that’s why kite-flying could sneak into your list of 4th of July activities. Get yourself some kites and have a blast! Bonus points if you kites are patriotic like mine.
Host a karaoke night with patriotic songs

This is another honorable mention, but who can resist singing along with songs like John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads”? I recognize the night will likely devolve into singing along with Disney and Broadway classics, but you can start the night off right with several patriotic songs such as:
- “Born in the USA”
- “Mr. Red White and Blue”
- “American Soldier”
- “Color Me America”
- “All-American Girl”
- “Made in America”
- “American Kids”
- “American Honey”
- “Party In the USA”
Let freedom reign!
There you go! You have my fail-proof list of to-dos for a happy 4th of July celebration. This list has come in handy in the last several years and I hope you have similar experiences with it.
Want more family-friendly summer content? Check out our latest video on the top 10 best summer activities for kids!

And as always, if you find you need some extra cash to cover an unexpected expense this holiday, or afterwards, Net Pay Advance online loans can help.
I wish you a happy 4th of July!