Fourth of July is one of those holidays that just brings everyone together. Whether we’re grilling in the backyard or waving flags at the local parade, these traditions remind us what summer and our freedom feels like. In our house, it’s not about doing everything, but about doing what makes us feel close. Here are a few of our favorite family traditions, plus some new ones we’ve tried that seem to be catching on fast.
Backyard BBQs and Picnic Feasts
There’s no better way to kick off the day than with a cookout. We load up the table with burgers, corn on the cob, and maybe a fruit salad in red, white, and blue. According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans eat about 150 million hot dogs every Fourth — and I’d bet half of them are at family barbecues.
These days, we’ve started mixing it up with veggie skewers and lighter sides. The focus isn’t the menu though — it’s the chance to sit down and enjoy a meal together before the day gets hectic.
Red, White, and Blue Everything
Our morning starts with decorating. We hang flags, drape the porch in bunting, and blast some Springsteen while everyone throws on their most festive outfit. One year, the kids made tie-dye shirts and wore them proudly all day — stains and all.
Even simple things like paper stars, DIY garlands, or face paint help set the tone. It doesn’t have to be perfect to be fun. The photos always say it best.
Parades Big and Small
Nothing beats a small-town parade — the kind where you know someone in the marching band or wave at your neighbor on a float. The National Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C., is also worth a watch online if you’re looking for something bigger.
We’ve also joined a neighborhood bike parade, with the kids decorating their bikes and riding proudly down the block. It was low-effort and high joy — exactly what a holiday should be.
Fireworks and Drone Shows
Of course, we end the night with fireworks. Whether we’re watching the town display or lighting sparklers in the driveway, there’s something magical about that shared moment under the stars.
In recent years, we’ve also watched drone shows in places where fireworks are restricted. They are quieter for any sensitive ears in the family, but they are just as beautiful! This is a new tradition we didn’t expect to love so much.
Water Play and Outdoor Games
Afternoons are for running through sprinklers and playing backyard games. We set up cornhole, toss water balloons, and let the kids get soaked and sun-drenched before dinner.
You don’t need a pool to make it memorable just a hose and a few towels. Every year, we seem to invent a new “game” that ends up as someone’s favorite part.
Patriotic Treats
We keep dessert simple but festive. A flag cake with berries, star-shaped cookies, or a red-white-and-blue sundae bar always does the trick. Food Network has tons of ideas if you want to try something new.
The kids love helping and sneaking icing when they think I’m not looking. It’s messy, sweet, and totally worth it.
A Moment of Gratitude
Before the night ends, we sit down and talk. We might share what we’re thankful for, tell a story from a past Fourth, or just appreciate how lucky we are to be together. Military.com has great ideas for ways to honor the day meaningfully.
These moments not the fireworks or food are what I hope my kids carry with them. They’re reminders of why we celebrate in the first place.
Whether you celebrate big or small, traditional or modern, the Fourth of July is all about connection. Start where you are, do what feels right for your family, and enjoy the day for what it is: a chance to come together, reflect, and make memories.
Explore More About:Family Life