Hosting a 4th of July party is always a great idea because people love celebrating our freedom, summer, and a good excuse for some fun. We have hosted 4th of July at our house for a number of years now because we live next to the park that does the big firework show in our city. It is a perfect time for us to get outside and enjoy our backyard. We invite family and friends for a BBQ, water fun, dessert and then the big firework show. Such a fun time. So, now it is your turn to throw the perfect 4th of July party! Check out my tips to make the celebration one to remember.
4th of July Party Tips:
Potluck for all – I love hosting parties but the prep time in the kitchen is not my favorite thing to do. To avoid slaving over a stove for the party food I have started making our BBQ’s a potluck. This lets our guests contribute to the food, which most of them want to do anyway and takes a lot of the food prep away from me. Means my energy is saved for a late night firework show!
Fireworks – In our city limits we cannot legally set off those big fun fireworks but we do usually buy sparklers for everyone to enjoy. It is important to buy enough for everyone – yes even the big kids! Check with your local fire department to make sure you are legally able to have sparklers in your area. Regardless, make sure you plan accordingly for the BIG show near you. If you cannot see a show from your home, plan for drive time/walk time to the show after your dinner and dessert.
Essentials Stock Up – Just like the potluck tip I am always looking for an easier way to host and plan a party. Call me lazy but you will thank me later! Before any get together I head to my favorite store for all things essential – Target! Yes, that lovely place that becomes a vacation when you get to go shopping without kids! Not only can I spend hours enjoying the aisles with out kids but I can stock up on everything I need for a perfect 4th of July party. Seriously, everything. I always pick toilet paper, paper towels and napkins from the Up & Up brand from Target before my house is full of guests. There is no question – I like being prepared!
Entertainment – So you have the food covered but once the food is done there is time to have some fun in the yard before dark. Yard games are a hit and bring some nostalgic feelings to the party. Hopscotch, horseshoes, ladder golf, baseball, etc. Have fun and get active!
Menu Planning – Potluck was decided but as the host you need to fill in the gaps. Target is the place to go for those gaps. For our 4th of July parties I always pick up the Market Pantry Hamburgers and buns and ask my guests to bring their favorite toppings. I have also found that while the party is getting started, it is nice to have some finger foods out for everyone – a classic in our house is cheese and summer sausage. Perfect with crackers for an easy set up!
Keep the Bugs Away – Most 4th of July celebrations take place outside so guests can enjoy the beautiful fireworks and summer weather. Outside parties are great but hosts also need to keep in mind that there will likely be bugs annoying your guests. Be prepared for those bugs and get your party space bug-free. Citronella candles and tiki torches are a good touch but you could also create your own Homemade Bug Repellent that your guests will love.
What a great evening and you actually got to enjoy it! No stress thanks to your Essentials #TargetRun. See those delicious frosted cookies? Those are my weakness but I love picking these up for every holiday, event and BBQ because the Market Pantry brand always makes the frosting match the occasion! Love it!
I'm not sure what my target run will be but there's always something we need before big events from Target. Thanks so much for the tips on a perfect party.
We are planning some R&R and staying away from the loud sounds, as the dog freaks out. So having a movie marathon and frosted cookies like these sounds like a plan in our family.
Love that Target can save the day. We live so close to our Target it's not even funny. We are there all the time. We love Archer Farms dips and snacks!
Love all of this and yes will definitely be making a Target Run for the 4th! In addition to food and drinks I'll probably look for a fun outdoor game too!
I have a love hate relationship with potlucks. I love the fact of not having to cook everything but I stress on worrying will people actually bring what they say they will LOL
I love summer sausage! And I love Target for everything. I'm looking to make this a very special weekend.
We throw a big party on the 4th every year. It's so fun!
We love these cookies! They dissolve in your mouth! I love Target because you can do all your shopping in one place!
I miss target. Target left Canada recently as it didn't do well but we always got lots of stuff there, especially for get togethers! – Jeanine
Potlucks are the best and cheapest way to have a big party
I'm not sure what my target run will be but there's always something we need before big events from Target. Thanks so much for the tips on a perfect party.
What a great run. We always have to run to the store for last minute items.
Target is the best for everything. Iike that you chose Quality items for your celebration. I hope it goes smoothly
I love those soft, frosted cookies too! lol I have no doubt I'll be making at least one Target Run this week with the 4th of July coming this weekend!
We are planning some R&R and staying away from the loud sounds, as the dog freaks out. So having a movie marathon and frosted cookies like these sounds like a plan in our family.
Sounds like a fun time. We will probably head to a nearby town to see their display.
Love that Target can save the day. We live so close to our Target it's not even funny. We are there all the time. We love Archer Farms dips and snacks!
Target is our go to place for stocking up for the 4th of July weekend! Great ideas on what to serve too!
Love all of this and yes will definitely be making a Target Run for the 4th! In addition to food and drinks I'll probably look for a fun outdoor game too!
I have a love hate relationship with potlucks. I love the fact of not having to cook everything but I stress on worrying will people actually bring what they say they will LOL