Have a Blast: 15 Fun 4th of July Traditions to Try This Year

Fourth of July is almost here, and with it comes the desire to make plans, get together with friends, and do something memorable. If you’re thinking of starting or continuing some 4th of July traditions, you’re in the right place. 

We have gathered 15 of the best ways to celebrate Independence Day so you can create your own fantastic 4th of July traditions that would make our Founding Fathers proud. 

1. Create a 4th of July Playlist

Whether you’re surrounded by loved ones or dancing solo in the kitchen, this is the perfect time of year to bust a move to your favorite patriotic songs. Build your own playlist or find out which American hits to include with this collection of 4th of July-themed songs. 

2. Host a 4th of July Party

Design: Bonjour Berry

What better way to celebrate any holiday than with a party? Fourth of July celebrations bring your friends and family members together to honor Independence Day. Be sure to have plenty of good food and drink on hand. Maybe put on that playlist you made and have games for your guests to play. Fourth of July party inspiration can help you throw an incredible event of your own.

3. Bake Some Patriotic Goodies

Baked goods are always a hit, and you can create some interesting desserts with the American flag as your inspiration.. If you’re unsure what to bake, take a look at these star-spangled desserts for the ultimate in red, white, and blue dessert ideas. Bake something new each year as part of your 4th of July traditions.

4. Decorate with the American Flag

Put up a little bit of American history by decorating your home or party venue with the American flag. Opt for a giant flag hung across the wall or something more subtle with some star-spangled bunting instead. Commission a custom banner with the American flag and your family’s name — you could reuse it year after year as your Independence Day photo backdrop. 

5. Read the Declaration of Independence

If you want to get closer to history and learn more about why we celebrate the 4th of July, take a moment to read through the Declaration of Independence. This historic document marks not only the separation of the British American colonies from Great Britain but serves as a reminder that freedom and the pursuit of happiness are fundamental to our nation’s design. 

If you want to learn even more, the 4th of July is a perfect time to visit Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where the Declaration of Independence was debated and adopted by America’s Founding Fathers.

6. Head to the Water

Design: Niru & Baku

With the federal holiday and many people enjoying a long weekend, hitting the pool, beach, or lake can be a fun 4th of July tradition to start. Escape to your nearest lake, host a pool party for your friends, rent a boat, or hit the beach to enjoy your time off together. 

7. Have a Water Balloon Fight

Your 4th of July traditions don’t have to be big or fancy — they can be as simple and enjoyable as having a water balloon fight. Turn it into a real competition with prizes for the winner or a trophy that you pass on each year. Or, keep it casual, and use it as an excuse to get together and enjoy an afternoon out in the yard together. 

8. Plan a Neighborhood Party

Design: Signature Greenvelope

For a community-focused Independence Day celebration, why not organize a neighborhood block party? Gather a group of like-minded neighbors to dream up a celebration out on the streets or at one of your homes. Once you’ve sorted the details, use our 4th of July invites to spread the word about the event.

9. Go to a 4th of July Parade

If you don’t want to host a party yourself but want to enjoy some of that holiday spirit, head to something that’s already organized. A great way to soak up the atmosphere is at a 4th of July parade or procession. You don’t even need to head to a major city like New York or Philadelphia — there’ll be something special planned nearby, even if it’s on a smaller scale. 

10. Host a Backyard BBQ

Design: Anupama Srivastava

One of the best 4th of July traditions is hosting a backyard cookout for your friends, family, or neighbors. It’s the perfect reason to get the barbecue out, cook up some hot dogs and hamburgers, and dine outside together. When it’s time to get those invites out, be sure to use our easy BBQ party invitations. 

11. Watch Fireworks

Fourth of July fireworks displays can be impressive, so why not make it a 4th of July tradition to visit the same fireworks display every year. Research where the best fireworks shows are in your area, then head down to enjoy an evening of bright lights and celebration. 

12. Create a DIY Ice Cream Bar

Start a sweet and delicious 4th of July tradition by setting up a DIY ice cream bar. Get together lots of different flavors, toppings, and sauces, and encourage everyone to make an exciting new combo. Think of all the flavors that fit a red, white, and blue theme — like strawberry or watermelon, vanilla or white chocolate, and bubblegum or blue raspberry. This is a simple addition to any 4th of July party or a fun idea for the family to enjoy at home. 

13. Stage a 4th of July Photo Shoot

One of our favorite 4th of July traditions is to capture family or friends in a photo every year. Get together on the national holiday and set up a photo shoot where you can snap casual pictures and get group photos together. Not only does this give you a great memento of the day, but you can reflect on previous years to see how you’ve all grown and changed. 

14. Play Outdoor Games

With so many people hosting backyard parties, BBQs, and other outdoor events, there’s a definite need for some outdoor games and activities. There are so many games that work for a 4th of July party — take a look at our list of the best outdoor party games for inspiration. There’s cornhole, croquet, kickball, volleyball, horseshoes, and plenty of other party games to try. You could even host a softball tournament to add some friendly competition to the day.

15. Throw a Red, White, and Blue Themed Party

Design: Signature Greenvelope

There’s always something exciting about a color-themed party. Invite your guests to a celebration at your place but ask them to wear red, white, or blue. Choose on-theme party invites, decorate your space with these three colors, and serve food and drink that match your theme. 

Pair our 4th of July party ideas with a red, white, and blue color scheme, and you have a winning way to celebrate Independence Day and all that’s special about America. 

Celebrate the Holiday with These 4th of July Traditions

Have a blast this Independence Day and celebrate the way you want. Take advantage of our ideas and borrow a few to create new 4th of July traditions for you, your family, and your friends. 

If you’re hosting a party, use our online invitations to notify your guests. Take a look at our selection of 4th of July invites. Once you’ve made your choice, in just a few clicks, you can customize the layout, colors, and wording and send them out. Save time and energy, and put some back into making your celebration go off with a bang.