12 Stay at Home Fourth of July Activities for the Family

Independence Day is almost here, which means only one thing: It's time to celebrate with some Fourth of July recipes, great company, and the best Fourth of July activities! Of course, the holiday might look a little different this year, due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic — but that certainly doesn't mean you can't still have a blast on summer's best holiday. In fact, with plenty of fun family activities and festive at-home ideas, you can still make this year's Fourth of July the best-ever yet — we're talking backyard barbecues, patriotic crafts, and gooey s'mores over a campfire!

1. Bake Some Patriotic Desserts

You can't celebrate America's birthday without some red, white, and blue desserts! After baking some of the best cupcakes, brownies, and 4th of July cakes, the whole family can join in on the festive decorating — or even compete in a friendly bake-off.

2. Have a Backyard Movie Night

Level up your standard movie night by setting up a screening — and some cozy seating — right out on your lawn, then picking out an All-American movie that's perfect for the holiday. Don't forget the popcorn!

3. Go Camping in Your Backyard

It's not a 4th of July celebration without a campfire and some s'mores! If you can't make it to a real campsite this year, try a little backyard camping instead — just set up a tent (along with a great cookout, of course), and cap off the night with some scary stories around the fire.

4. Have a Game Night

Looking for something that's fun for the whole family? Organize a game night with some of the best board games — and if you want to make it on theme with the holiday, try out some special patriotic games (like 4th of July bingo or some American-themed trivia).

5. Have a Jam Session

It's no party without great music, so get some sing-a-long tunes going with your favorite patriotic songs on the guitar (or even just on the speakers). Belting out "Party in the U.S.A." is a must, obviously!

6. Have a BBQ in the Backyard

Fire up the grill for some great eats! Hot dogs and burgers are essential, of course, but don't forget the tasty apps (and some festive drinks to cool off in the heat).

7. Get Crafty with the Kids

What better way to keep the little ones occupied than with a fun holiday craft? Plus, these easy-to-make flower pots double as a great 4th of July decor!

8. Have a Backyard Picnic

It's obvious that spending the 4th of July outdoors is ideal, so why not bring food and drinks right to your backyard? You'll appreciate the sunshine and get a good meal in, too.

9. Make a Splash in the Pool

Celebrate the fourth while sitting in a pool float with a drink in hand! It's the perfect way to spend a sunny day with the whole family.

10. Get Active Outdoors

Go for a hike, a long walk, or even a family bike ride this Independence Day. Bonus points if you all have red, white, or blue bikes!

11. Light Up Some Sparklers

If you can't make it to a fireworks show this year, light it up with some sparklers — they're like a much safer, hand-held version of fireworks! Plus, they make for a fantastic photo op (especially if you have some fun, festive 4th of July nails to match).

12. Watch Some Fireworks

Of course, you might still be able to enjoy some fireworks safely from your home this year — in which case, don't forget to sit back and enjoy (and practice good fireworks safety)!

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We hope you all have a fun, safe Fourth of July! Remember to be smart and abide by social distance orders, wear masks if you must go out in public, and stay home if you can! 

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Original Source: Good Housekeeping Institute