No event says, “Summer’s here!” in America like the 4th of July. And nowhere in the world rejoices their Independence Day quite like the United States.
To help you celebrate our nation’s birthday, Taylor Morrison has put together a ton of fantastic ways for you to wave your flag and show your red, white and blue without breaking the bank.
And if you’d like to make the ultimate expression of freedom this summer and relocate to another part of the country, our easy-to-use home finder can help you explore the possibilities.
Attend a Local Fireworks Spectacular
Watching the sky light up the night of the Fourth is a time-honored tradition. Grab a few blankets, pack a picnic basket and enjoy the show.
- If you’re in Tampa, please note that the Downtown Tampa Independence Day Fireworks Celebration has moved to the Convention Center. Arrive early to get a seat along the Riverwalk. Show kicks off at 9pm.
- In Atlanta, Fourth of July at World of Congress Center will feature a fabulous concert lineup prior to the fireworks. Gates open at 6pm. Music from 7pm and fireworks start at 9:45pm.
If you’re more of a homebody, consider watching the famous New York City fireworks display sponsored by Macy’s on NBC. America’s largest Independence Day fireworks show is now in its 40th year. Tune in at 9pm Eastern.
Throw a Somewhat Simple 4th of July Party
When it comes to creative homemaking ideas for the holidays, Stephanie from Somewhat Simple is our go-to party genius. Her do-it-yourself blog posts are fun, simple and easy on the wallet. Get your celebration cooking with these wonderfully patriotic decorations and treats.
- DIY “Firecracker” 4th of July Banner
- Decorate on the Cheap with Fun Patriotic Printables
- How to Make Delicious Red, White & Blue Cupcakes
- Bottoms Up! Fantastic 4th of July Drink Recipes
Thanks again to Stephanie and her family for letting us track the progress of their new home transformation. Learn more about their journey to build and shape their Taylor Morrison Phoenix home.
Follow along with these hashtags #SomewhatSimpleHome and #SSBuildsWithTM across social media.
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Fly Old Glory
Order a new American flag off Amazon and create your own flag raising ceremony at home. Show off your patriotic spirit with the stars & stripes.
Plan a Road Trip
Never mind that the 4th of July is on a Wednesday this year, take a couple days off work and haul the family off on a thrilling road trip adventure.
It’s a great opportunity to visit a State or National Park and summertime weather means it could be time to break out the tent for a family camping trip.
Remember, you don’t need to go far to find the best of America’s natural wonder.
Take Them out to the Ball Game
The crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd. Express your patriotism with a hot dog in one hand and a baseball glove on the other.
Cheer on your favorite MLB team or consider taking in a Minor League game. If you’ve never been to a Minor League stadium you’re in for a real treat. Tickets and concessions are a fraction of the cost and because the stands are much smaller you’ll be closer to the action. Minor League games often host fun special events.
Load up Patriotic Music
No matter what your plans are for the big day, it’s easy to download all your favorite patriotic songs to put you in the Spirit of ’76.
Downhome Cookout and BBQ
A traditional American barbecue doesn’t cost an arm and leg. Forget about steak & chops and load up the grill with hot dogs, hamburgers and chicken drummies!
Add Coca-Cola, chips, potato salad and watermelon and you can plan quite the shindig at around 5 bucks a head. Don’t forget to add a box of red, white and blue ‘firecracker’ popsicles to the shopping list.
Pro Tip: Pick up a few packs of sparklers to liven up your BBQ.
How about a Fun Run?
5k and 10k runs are a popular, healthy and affordable way to get the most out of your 4th of July holiday. Sacramento home owners can sign up for the 42nd Annual Buffalo Chips 5-Miler at Glenn Hall Park on the corner of Sandburg & Carlson Drive in River Park.
- 7:15-7:45am: Registration
- 7:45am: Start of Kids’ Half-Mile Race (10 and under)
- 8am: Start of 5-Mile Race
Entrance fee is done by cash/check donations. Proceeds will benefit Weave and the American River Parkway Foundation.
Host a Patriotic Movie Night
Break out the popcorn popper and plant your behind on the sofa for a patriotic movie marathon. Fire up your barbecue or order in pizza. You can even invite friends over to share in the fun.
Here are 6 of the greatest 4th of July flicks of all-time to choose from:
- Independence Day: American heroes Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum save the planet from an alien invasion.
- The Patriot: A revolutionary war themed classic.
- Captain America: Star-studded patriotic action.
- Air Force One: Action-packed drama on America’s #1 airplane.
- Miracle: The USA takes the gold in Olympic hockey after upsetting the heavily favored USSR.
- Top Gun: Isn’t it time to introduce your kids to this 80s classic?
Attend a Cultural Event
History-themed community events are a great way to teach your little ones about the importance of protecting our freedom. In the Dallas real estate market, the Old Fashioned Fourth at Dallas Heritage Village is free to children under 12 and just 5 bucks for everyone else.
- 10am-3pm at 1515 South Harwood in Dallas | 214.421.5141
Get Wet and Wild
One big bag of red, white and blue water balloons plus one hose bib equals a hot afternoon of 4th of July fun. A patriotic water balloon fight is just what the doctor ordered to cool off under the summer sun.
As American as Apple Pie
Celebrate our country’s birthday with a food that’s more Yankee Doodle than grandma. Baking a pie together is fun and delicious.
Keep it Safe
However, you and yours choose to spend the holiday, we hope you have a safe and happy 4th of July celebration!
