Fourth of July Fun

Celebrate with a Bang

I don’t know about you, but it almost feels like we’re getting an extra holiday this year. Since July 4th falls on a Sunday, most people we know have Monday off. Even though it’s past the official holiday, we’ve still got lots of summer fun and snacks to make it a great long weekend – this holiday weekend or anytime during the hotter months of the year.

Yogurt Cone Treats: If you don’t feel like turning on the oven but want to thrill your kids with a festive treat, try these simple yogurt cones. All you need is ice cream cones, yogurt in your choice of flavors, and berries. I like to layer the berries into the cone with the yogurt, but anything goes. 

Shark Melon: You can’t go wrong with watermelon on a hot day, but this carving tip takes it one step further. Turn your next melon into prime party decor. All you need is a melon of almost any size, a good carving knife, and some time to spend making your masterpiece. Then sit back and enjoy the oohs and aahs while munching on cold melon.

Easy July 4th Snack: It doesn’t get any easier than this tasty snack. Whip up one or a batch for your family. You can use regular dishes or clear plastic cups to play up the color theme. Simply toss in yogurt, blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries in pretty much any order.

Easy Summer Punch: It isn’t blue, but it could be red! Try this delicious summer punch recipe at your next gathering. Made from just a few ingredients and blended with ice, it hits the spot on hot days. You can even add alcohol to make an adult version. If you want to go really wild, switch the limeade out with another frozen juice concentrate in red to make it thematic as well.

Island Float: If your celebrations involve water, you can’t go wrong with this giant float. Big enough for the whole family and a slough of kids to boot, it includes space for a cooler, multiple cup holders, and even an easy access ramp on the back to make getting back in the float from the water simpler. You will definitely want a pump to inflate and deflate it, but it only takes a few minutes. 

Splash Pad: This affordable splash pad may be made for the littlest guest, but older kids will love it, too. It hooks up to a hose for endless water play. The pool portion fills up with a few inches of water for prime splashing, while the edges sprinkle water. Turn the water up or down to adjust the height of the spray, then let the kids loose.

Sponge Bombs: Want an alternative to water balloons that will last more than one toss? Get a batch of sponges and make your own water bombs. These sponge creations soak up tons of water and have a great heft for tossing. The soft surface means it won’t injure anyone on impact, and you dip them to refill. Even better, you can use them all summer long and there’s no tiny rubber pieces to clean up when you finish. 

Super Water Sabers: Want water guns that go the distance? These water sabers fill up with ease but shoot farther than any other water guns we’ve tried. Kids as young as two have no trouble using or filling them, and adults can get in on the fun as well.

Portable Hammock: No shade? No problem! This portable hammock goes wherever you go, from the beach to the backyard. It sets up and takes down in minutes, and the bag comes with wheels, making it easy to get from the car to your patch of shade. The added canopy means you can make your own shade wherever you go.

Picnic Blankets: If you’re planning a picnic, a quality blanket can make all the difference. Get one that’s easy to clean, carry, and can stand up to almost all the abuse your kids dish out. This water resistant material keeps bums dry, but also dries quickly if it gets wet. It wipes clean without any effort, and folds up to go anywhere. The shoulder strap leaves your hands free to hold onto snacks, drinks, kids, and more.