Last Minute 4th of July Inspiration

A few years ago, our family started a new 4th of July tradition- visiting family over 4th of July weekend. There will be traditional 4th of July: fried chicken, potato salad, etc. (Yum!) We will relax and enjoy each others' company...and when it gets dark, we will go out on the porch and watch fireworks (we can see two shows!). It's such a fun time to spend with family. For those preparing to entertain this weekend, here are some very last minute deals and ideas to get your creative wheels churning:

Walmart has some cool patriotic stuff! I personally purchased a few cupcake holders, actually for a birthday party this week, that have a cupcake display built into the lid. They also have some neat plastic tubs, french fry trays (like the ones you get in a restaurant- I loved those!), among other things. Prices are not too bad either!

Dollar Tree has TONS of glowsticks of all sorts- you can get 5 bracelets/necklaces for $1!!

 

Make your own confetti lauchers. Learn how at familyfun.go.com!

Design a rosette banner- looks easy, and cute too! (Country Living)

 

Even your breakfast can be patriotic! Click here for a recipe for patriotic pancakes (the red ones are red velvet!)

Children's activities can include the following:

• Classic games (three-legged race, potato sack race, water balloon toss)
• Glow sticks
• A giant game of "Capture the flag"
• Patriotic Face Paint- we always just use water color pencils instead of face paints- they are easier to draw a precise line with as long as you don't press too hard
• Let children create a parade of their own for parents to watch using decorated bikes and wagons