July 4th Party Ideas Better Homes and Gardens #4thofjulyweekend?

Go beyond fireworks and burgers for your best 4th of July ever. Our party ideas from Maxwell Ryan, Founder of Apartment Therapy, are as fresh and patriotic as they are easy and inexpensive. Complete with activities for kids and fun party favors, everything you need to celebrate July 4th in style is right here.

Make July 4th Pinwheels

Bring the kids and adults together at your summer party with Maxwell Ryan's chic pinwheel craft. Colorful, patriotic papers dress up these cute party favors. Bonus: The pinwheels can double as party decorations.

• Get the pinwheel how-to HERE!

Play with Bubbles

What's inexpensive and guaranteed fun for kids? Bubbles! Give this cool kids' activity 4th of July style with DIY star-shape wands.

• Make the star wands and bubble solution.

Snack on Fresh Vegetables

Keep guests satisfied with mini jars filled with hummus and fresh veggies. Disposable party cups work just as well.

• Get more 4th of July recipes in our FREE party kit download.

Mix Up Your Reds, Whites, and Blues

The classic July 4th look is red, white, and blue, but you can use whatever shades you want. Rather than the traditional cobalt blue, we chose pastel hues of aqua and sky blue for a modern look.

• More 4th of July party decorations. 

Use Trays for Easy (and Adorable) Dining

Who knew a simple tray could be so cute? Line individual trays with gingham and paisley napkins (paper is OK!) for a polished but crazy-easy party look. The trays let guests dine anywhere -- no picnic table needed.

• 4th of July BBQ recipes.

Light Up the Night with Flashlights for Kids

As day turns to night, kids can frolic like fireflies with mini flashlights. Attach a ribbon to the end of each flashlight to help kids hang on them.

Sip Homemade Iced Tea

Iced tea is our summer drink of choice, especially with fun additions like fresh fruit, mint leaves, and just a bit of booze. If you're hosting kids and adults, make a seperate, alcohol-free drink station for kids, complete with juice, plastic cups, and silly straws.

• Get our ultimate iced tea recipe!

Set the 4th of July Table

Setting the table should be fun, not stressful. Here, we made a simple runner with paisley bandannas and topped it off with teensy white bouquets. Heirloom tomatoes can be sliced to top burgers, and they're also just plain gorgeous on your tabletop. Want corn bread, too? Get the recipe here.

Celebrate the Forth of July in style. It's a great time to honor our great Nation with friends and family. Lets remember those who are far away keeping us safe and protection our Freedom. I thank all of our brave heroes in the Armed Forces. 

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