Fourth of July

Fourth of July is Saturday but I feel like it's already started! Our little town had it's patriotic show and fireworks this past weekend and we had some family and friends over for a bonfire to celebrate. So I've had red, white and blue on my mind for a couple weeks. For the actual holiday, we'll be with Dearest Carl's family which means good food, good friends and loads of fireworks. But I just had to put together some of my favorite ideas for you! I hope one or two of them will help you plan for your shindig!

1. Patriotic Cheese Plate - This idea sounded perfect for the people who celebrate the Fourth of July from dawn till dusk. Instead of rounding everyone up for a formal lunch, just provide a variety of snacks that people can grab on their way out to play corn hole. And you know I'm a cheese plate girl so this was a big win idea for me!

2. Fourth of July Bingo - Is it just me or does this sound like the absolute perfect way to keep kids occupied on the Fourth? The hardest part is waiting for the fireworks to start so instead of answering the "Is it time yet?" question for the millionth time, send them hunting with this free patriotic printable!

3. Fourth Fruity Kabobs - I will guarantee that if you bring these starry kabobs to your Fourth of July pitch in, they'll get talked about. A plain ol' fruit salad, not so much. If that seems like too much work, just get your kids to cut out the star shapes.

4. Patriotic Pineapple Centerpiece - So maybe I'm onto the pineapple trend. So what. This super centerpiece seems like a brilliant idea to me! Any thing for more sparklers, right?

5. Red White and Blue Sippers - There isn't a lot that's more American than drinking out of mason jars. Using red, white and blue paper for tops that will allow sipping through straws makes them easier to drink from. You can also write people's names on the top so nobody gets mixed up!

6. Patriotic Ice Pops - Every kid loves a tasty popsicle when things heat up. Serve these during the hottest part of your afternoon festivities and watch kids and adults alike light up while they lick away on the cold treat.

7. American Flag Bunting - I can see this in my kitchen or across the back of the house. Such an easy project is a great way to add some flair to your party, how can you resist?

8. Red White and Blue Spritzers - While there are tons of yummy sounding firecracker cocktails out there, I opted to include this one. Mainly because the recipe is simple to make and doesn't involve any alcohol. If you're looking for a little zing though, you could totally add a dash of vodka.

Also, you have to look up the John Philip Sousa station on Pandora. It's the ultimate way to get into the Fourth of July mood.

What are your plans for the Fourth? Family? Fireworks? Festivities?

(Top Image via Style Me Pretty)