Tis the season for sparklers, streamers, and red, white, and blue…everything! From local parades to backyard barbeques, the Fourth of July is a time for community celebrations. But, whether you’ve got a kiddo with sensory sensitivities, a pet who’s scared of loud noises, or maybe pyrotechnics just aren’t your thing, there are plenty of fun and patriotic ways to celebrate Independence Day without the usual fireworks routine. Here are a few ideas: 

Plan a red, white, and blue scavenger hunt. Nothing says ‘Merica quite like some red, white, and blue fun! Use a pre-made printable or create your own. Think of the American flag or find a star, red food, white flowers, and animals. Don’t forget prizes for the winners!

Throw a glow-in-the-dark party. Break out your glowsticks, neon decorations, and blacklights for an evening of backyard fun. Purchase some glowing decor or create your own with black paper and neon paint colors. Organize games and activities to entertain your party guests. Make fun treats like glow-in-the-dark Jell-O or experiment with other foods that glow under black light. 

Host a patriotic outdoor movie night. Rent or borrow a projector screen for a low-key evening at the movies. Ask guests to bring their own chairs or blankets and snacks. For older kids or adults, choose movies like The Sandlot, A League of Their Own, Captain America: The First Avenger, Independence Day, and National Treasure. Younger kiddos might enjoy Night at the Museum, Tom & Huck, or An American Tail.

My 7-year-old loves history, so I recently introduced him to Hamilton on Disney+, a musical that tells the story of our country’s founding fathers. I saw the show with friends a few years ago and still love listening to the music. However, it has some adult themes, so research before watching.

Create a family time capsule. With this memorable experience, capture a snapshot of your life and reflect on what’s important to your family right now. Use a large jar or another airtight container to create the capsule. Ask each family member to add photos, other mementos, newspaper and magazine clippings, or write letters to whoever might find your capsule one day. Get creative—nothing is off-limits!

Go on a night hike. Explore the outdoors after dark! Walk familiar trails and view nature in a new way. Talk about the sights and sounds, listen to nocturnal creatures, and search for bugs that only come out at night. My son has a headlamp that would be perfect for this activity! Don’t forget to bring flashlights and bug spray!

What are your plans for the Fourth?

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