The best celebration of the summer is approaching. Although it is sometimes an overlooked holiday, July 4th is a special day in which all Americans come together to celebrate the freedoms they were given (…like the freedom to throw a 4th of July party…). From the delicious smell of barbecues wafting through neighborhoods to the enthralling sight of fireworks bursting in air, it’s a party that goes on till the twilight’s last gleaming. Prepare to be decked out in red, white and blue as we celebrate our freedoms and liberties that hold true!
1. Everything & everyone is color coordinated.
There’s something special about seeing everyone dressed patriotically for the 4th of July. Admit it, there’s nothing cuter than seeing everyone dressed in uniform to the colors of the American flag. Even guys go all out. People take pride in their country! Now’s your chance to twin it up with some of your best friends and have no shame in doing so. It’s a great excuse to go shopping for the perfect patriotic outfit that will surely be Insta-worthy. Not only will outfits be color coordinated, but also the party favors and even the food…prepare to see some red, white and blue fruit kebabs, cocktails, snow cones, and more.
2. Great weather allows for fun outdoor parties.
What people don’t seem to realize is that most holidays fall over the frigid winter months. For example, Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year’s and even Thanksgiving are celebrated when it’s too cold to enjoy being outdoors. The 4th of July is the only holiday celebrated in the summer when the weather is warm enough to have a party outside. You can dress comfortably without a jacket and there’s more space to move around freely instead of being cramped up in a small room with over thirty guests. Whether you’re at a beach, lake, golf course, or backyard patio, you’ll enjoy the beautiful essence of being outdoors. But don’t forget the bug spray…
3. Delicious food & barbecues.
Ah, the sweet smell of barbecues. Burgers, hotdogs, steaks, and sausages sizzling on the grill are enough to make my mouth water. Sorry to all you vegetarians out there, but the 4th of July is known for its notorious BBQ feast. However, you can still enjoy grilled corn on the cob, fresh vegetables and veggie burgers as tasty substitutes. Delicious and easy-to-make side dishes include baked beans, pasta salad and watermelon. And don’t even get me started on the desserts…which happen to all be covered in red, white and blue frosting!
4. Live, festive music.
What’s a party without the music? Patriotic, all-American songs can be heard from nearly everywhere on the 4th of July. If you’re at the beach, there’s almost always live music playing at the boardwalk, bars and restaurants. Start up your own a 4th of July playlist and include classic American hits like “Born in the USA,” “American Pie,” “America the Beautiful,” and of course, “Party in the USA” by the one and only Miley Cyrus. After a few red, white and blue cocktails you’ll definitely be belting out the lyrics by the end of the night like everyone else.
5. Bonfires & s’more roasting.
The intimacy of sitting around a bonfire with family and friends sharing familiar stories with one another is a cherished experience. It is the perfect way to unwind down or get some quality time with that special someone you’ve been eyeing all night long. If you still have room for s’more food (or even if you don’t), this is the time to take out the marshmallows, graham crackers and Hershey chocolate and roast some s’mores. If you’re fortunate enough to play the guitar or know someone that does, a bonfire allows for the perfect opportunity to play some acoustic tunes that everyone can sing along to. No matter how cliché this may sound, there is nothing more American than gathering around the campfire and singing campfire songs.
6. Fireworks galore.
Let’s be honest, the best part of the 4th of July are the fireworks. It’s what everyone looks forward to at the end of the day. Watching the mesmerizing explosions of color is hypnotic and brings us an exhilarating experience that we can share with others. Don’t even bother trying to take pictures or videos because they won’t do them justice. The romantic and magical way they light up the sky provide the perfect backdrop on a date and will leave you starry-eyed and hungry for more. Whether you’re with family, friends or a loving companion, it’s a celebration in the sky for all to see.
7. It’s a holiday everyone in America can celebrate.
The 4th of July is the day when we all come together despite our differences to take pride in our country. Yes, it’s a great excuse to take off work and throw a fun party with your family and friends, but more importantly, you appreciate all the men and women who risk their lives every day to protect our freedoms. The 4th of July is the perfect reminder of how great it is to be an American. So take pride, celebrate and God bless #MERICA!
