How to throw a Fourth of July party: Party in the U.S.A

When most people think Fourth of July, most people think fireworks. But hey, this holiday is more than that! Independence Day is an American favorite, representing summer in all its glory but it also gives us the chance to display the patriotism we are known for here in America. There’s plenty to do for this summer holiday, the hard part is deciding how and where you’re going to live it up for the day. You must throw an awesome party if you plan on having one so whether you’re aiming for a night that you won’t remember in the morning or a more intimate and classy gathering, here are some fun ideas to incorporate into your celebration plans!

Food and drinks: For any summer party, you must have some refreshing drink options, especially if it’s a warm summer day. Soda, juice, and water are safe bets for any gathering but for all the twenty-one year olds out there (or those of you with fake I.D.’s) don’t forget the cold brewskies! How could anything sound more refreshing? For those of you that want to get fancy, try making some simple, fruity and colorful cocktails like a Blue Hawaii or a Sea Breeze to go with the classic red, white and blue theme. To keep your friends and family satisfied, you have to join in on the American holiday tradition of grilling hotdogs and hamburgers (for vegetarians alike, veggie burgers are an excellent alternative). Do your grocery shopping ahead of time because you won’t be the only one headed to the market for these summer favorites!

Desserts: Popsicles, ice cream, cake, and cupcakes are some tasty go-to options for any occasion because they’re so simple but if you’ve got the time, make super cool desserts your friends won’t forget! For those of you that want some easy-to-make treats, try cupcakes and simply add red, white and blue food coloring to the cupcake frosting and top if off with some festive star sprinkles. For those that want to whip out some creativity and incorporate a dessert with a little more nutritional value, try a Martha Stewart classic recipe of the American Flag Cake or cupcakes, loaded with fresh strawberries, raspberries and blueberries.

Decorations and Dress up: Deck out your place with some red and blue streamers for the simplest and cheapest way to get into the Independence Day spirit. At this time of the summer, you can pretty much find decorating supplies at any local grocery store or better yet, find a dollar store! You can go to town on the silliest of Fourth of July themed products such as top hats with American Flags, Hawaiian lays, star rimmed sunglasses, tattoos or headbands with flimsy stars on them for only a few bucks. Why not? Oh, and glow sticks! Glow sticks are always fun.

No matter where you are, you can always find somewhere close by for a viewing of the fireworks; the most exciting part of the day! You can barbeque from home and find a local park or venue with a fireworks show later on in the day –but be sure to get there early to get prime seating. For all the coastal communities, you simply can’t beat spending the day at the beach and getting to enjoy seeing the fireworks over the moonlit ocean. But be aware, beachgoers: the freeway is going to be a parking lot on the 4th if you don’t get an early start. So pack your ice chests and beach towels ahead of time! Most importantly, for all the Berkeley students here for the summer, you can head to Pier 39 in San Francisco or the Berkeley Marina for day AND enjoy the show at night with your friends. Wherever you go and whatever you decide to do, do not forget your sparklers. That’s an order.

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