Independence Day 2018
July 4th is one of the most important National holidays of the Unites States because we are celebrating the Declaration of Independence in 1775. The Declaration stated clearly that “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” — Thomas Jefferson
This represents the concept and soul of our freedom, hard earned/protected by respected soldiers and we should still be grateful for all it means in our lives. As a result, we can buy and sell our homes. We can give our children decent educations. We can vote. We can strive for better lives. Over the years, it’s also become a wonderful holiday to associate with fun.
What’s the first thing you think of when you hear July 4th? Most people say the fireworks, parades, of course lots of food such as barbeques, parties, getting together with family and friends, picnics, concerts, parades, sometimes political speeches, baseball games. There are so many things you can do that day if you’d like to go out to celebrate or even at home. It’s definitely a time to enjoy!
There are many ways to have a patriotic 4th of July that are quite expensive if you can afford a weekend trip. This is one of the busiest times at the airport all year.
If you’d like a low cost patriotic day, thankfully there are many things that can be done very inexpensively and some even free.
US News suggests that you “Plan your day around free fireworks. If you live within a short drive of a great public fireworks display, plan your day around that. Turn the free fireworks into the centerpiece of a day trip.” Most states don’t allow you to have your own fireworks any longer because of the real danger of starting hazardous fires, so the free fireworks displays are the best option. They are usually more beautiful anyway. As US News agreed, it’s best to pack your own food for the day, preferably bringing a cooler to keep your food and drinks cold. “Along the way, look for roadside attractions, parks and other resources that are open to the public and have Fourth of July hours. A bit of research can help you find a plethora of options between your home and the fireworks.” If you have children, don’t forget extra snacks and water arrive early with a blanket so you can have a nice picnic and bring jackets in case it cools off in the evening. Wait for the fireworks and you’ll have had a lovely day.
A block party is always fun. That gets everyone involved including families with/without children and includes those who might otherwise have been alone. It brings the neighbors together in the most positive way. A potluck barbecue is a great opportunity to socialize and celebrate our country’s Independence Day. Another plus: Nobody is complaining about the noise if they are all at the same party!
Look for a free concert. In some communities, there are groups providing all genres of music. Of course, there’s almost always a parade if you’re a family that enjoys that activity.
If it’s too hot outside and you’d prefer to be inside your own home, you can invite family and friends over for a barbeque; even ask them to bring a small dish so you don’t have to provide everything. Then plan to dine inside.
Perhaps the children can have fun making a dessert that looks patriotic: Use vanilla yogurt (or vanilla pudding), let them decorate it with strawberries and blueberries so it has the feeling of a flag, or at least the colors.
You can have dinner and drinks inside where it’s cooler. Children can be as involved as age-appropriate and as much as the parents allow – perhaps by doing some crafts. If you don’t want to go out, you all might watch the fireworks on TV. It’s a birthday party for our country so if you want to find inexpensive ways to enjoy it, there are plenty!
First Light Homes, LLC of Newbury Park wishes you a very Happy 4th of July!