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Independence Day will be here before we know it. While it can be exciting to head out and watch a big fireworks display, celebrating at home can be tons of fun too (not to mention quieter and less disruptive to early bedtimes).
Read on for Fourth of July food and craft ideas to get everyone in the spirit this Independence Day.
Fork stamped fireworks
Kids use a plastic fork dipped in paint to stamp colorful firework bursts onto black cardstock. This fun and tactile art project just needs paint, a fork and paper and is perfect for little hands. The resulting artwork mimics fireworks and makes a great decoration. Head to Toddler at Play for more details.
Firecracker popcorn
This festive treat starts with popcorn coated with white-chocolate and tops it with sprinkles, red-and-blue M&M’s, and a surprise twist: popping candy! The Pop Rocks create a mini firework show in your mouth. This treat is easy to make, shareable and perfect for celebrating with friends and family. Leanna, at Life by Leanna, has all the details and instructions you’ll need to bring this fun treat together.
Painted lawn stars
Decorate your outdoor space by adding glitz to the grass! Check out this fun and easy tutorial from A Heart Full of Joy for spray painting stars on your lawn. Not only will the stars stick around until you mow, but it’ll also be the easiest decorating you’ll do this summer!
Patriotic lanterns
DIY lanterns from Thrifty Decor Chick work equally well for indoors or out, and day or night. This is a super-easy project that the kids can help create. Use battery-operated LED tea lights for added safety — then let your lights shine!
Firecracker dogs
Serve up traditional hot dogs with a twist. These firecracker dogs on a stick will make a festive and delicious centerpiece for the table. Just follow Angela’s easy recipe from the Handmade in the Heartland and be the coolest parent on the block.
Fruity sparklers
With all of the chips and sweets at the cookout, you’ll want to balance out the table with some fruit. These star-shaped watermelon and blueberry sparkler snacks from This Healthy Table will entice even the most reluctant fruit-eaters.
Red, white and blue poke cake
Poke cake is always a crowd-pleaser and this recipe from Spend With Pennies uses red and blue Jell-O to make it Fourth-of-July fantastic. The Jell-O keeps the cake moist and whipped cream topping makes it perfect for a summer gathering.
Ribbon wands
Kids will love twirling these red, white and blue ribbon wands around your neighborhood, in the backyard or just around the house. Follow the simple tutorial on She Saved and consider adding some glittery ribbon to the wand for extra pizzazz. These are also perfect to give little ones who are too young for sparklers.
Red, white and blue beverages
Why not add red, white and blue to the beverages at your family party? Check out the recipe from the Shaken Together Life. Mold the Jell-O cubes ahead of time and add to your favorite lemon-lime soda or water to keep drinks cold. These won’t melt, and kids will love eating the Jell-O after they finish their drinks.
DIY coasters
For a craft that you can use at an Independence Day celebration and throughout the summer, try these Perler Bead coasters. Use a star or circle board and red, white and blue beads to create patriotic designs. Check out the tutorial at the Merriment Design blog.
More summer fun for families: |
Editor’s note: This article was originally published several years ago, and updated most recently on June 26, 2025, with new crafts and snacks by ParentMap’s associate editor, Kari Hanson.
