4th July Party Ideas to Try in 2023
Celebrating from afar? Throw an Independence Day party to remember with our clever guide
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How to Throw the Ultimate 4th of July Party
Celebrating from afar? Throw an Independence Day party to remember with our clever guide
By: Maddi JohnAh – Independence Day. That sweet spot of summer when the air is filled with the smokey scent of barbecues and fireworks, popsicles fill our freezers to the brim, and our streets are adorned in white, blue, and red everything. Whether you're hosting a simple get-together or an all-out barbecue bash, throwing an Independence Day party is easier said than done, which is why we’ve gathered the best 4th of July party ideas to make your bash a rousing success. So, stock up on sparklers, fire up the grill, and read on to discover how to throw an Independence Day party like no other.
Deck Out on 4th of July Party Decorations
When planning the perfect 4th of July, decorations set the stage for the day (or evening). Choose decor that will capture the spirit of Independence Day and add to the festive atmosphere. Bunting is at the top of our list of best outdoor decorations, and homemade bunting is even better. With a few rolls of red, white, and blue fabric – Liberty's Plains fabrics will come in handy – you can create a patriotic ensemble of flags to hang across your patio and garden in a few easy steps.
As it’s summer, you’ll want to make sure your alfresco dining scene is set just right. If you’re leaning towards a casual picnic, ensure you’ve got plenty of cushions and blankets, like Liberty Shadow Stripe Throw, $775, to spread out to ensure everyone is comfortable during dining.
For table seating, we recommend keeping to a minimal white tablecloth that you can brighten up with bright tableware, candles and candleholders to achieve a colorful curation in the day, and a candlelit glow in the evening. As for your centerpiece, we encourage a large vase full of summery, celebratory blooms to brighten the day up and add a dose of color.
Dish Up 4th of July Food
No party is complete without food and drinks. It’s no secret that Independence Day is all about barbecues and picnics which, luckily, requires slightly less determination than a five-course dinner. You'll want to have all the essentials on hand — think hot dogs, hamburgers, potato salad, chips, and all the fixings, as well as plenty of tasty treats and beverages to keep your guests satisfied, hydrated, and happy.
With less time needed on preparing the feast, more time can be designated to making a patriotic tablescape that’ll impress your guests. For tableware, we lean towards a mix-match table setting of blue, red, and white dishes that spark joy – don’t be afraid of going all out: the white tablecloth will balance your eccentric table additions. Look for fun plates like Cabana's Blossom Dinner Plate Red, $115 and bowls like Emma Bridgewater’s Blue Star Medium Pasta Bowls, $31, to optimize your playful place settings.
Specialty drinks (whether alcoholic or not) are a celebratory must and taste even better when served in a pretty glass. Look to The Vintage List’s Stars Champagne Coupes, $110, when opting for a dose of bubbles or lighten up the bar work with large jugs or pitchers full of classic favorites like ice tea, lemonade, or a summery cocktail punch. For your small nibbles, look to sharing platters that are practical yet arty, like Pottery & Poetry’s Serving Tray and Dipping Bowl, $120.
4th of July Outfits to Impress
Like the decorations, what makes 4th of July parties different from your usual run-of-the-mill gathering is the abundance of white, blue, and red, so why make your dress code any different? Get decked out in your favorite patriotic colors no matter the mood. Keeping it lowkey in the day? Opt for the Farm Rio Summer Garden Embroidered Denim Shorts, $245, and a red or white top for a casual but vibrant outfit. Alternatively, if you’re hosting an epic 4th of July cookout, dress up with a playful summer number, like SZ Blockprints’ Cornflower Blue Silver Gaia Dress, $385, that will keep you cool, stylish, and stress-free under the sun.
As any accessory aficionado will know, no look is complete without a couple of stylish plus ones to add to your outfit. When looking at jewelry, this Liberty 9ct Gold Aragon Blue Sapphire Ring, $1,050, with its royal blue and starry design is a 4th of July delight. If you’re one to reach for a hair accessory, Liberty’s Phoebe Tana Lawn™ Cotton Tie Headband, $97, adds a summery pop of color and keeps your hair off your face. Handbags, while not necessary when the party is in your own home, are definitely welcome so we suggest a basket bag or small clutch that isn’t too formal.
The Finishing Touches
Now that the groundwork is out of the way, it’s time to tie the party up with a few finishing touches. If the evenings tend to get cooler in your area, place a basket of additional blankets and quilts in the garden so no one catches a chill when watching the fireworks.
While the main focus of your party will be inside, bring the theme inside by ensuring your guest bathroom is looking tip-top. Opt for Liberty’s latest drop of hand towels in red or blue for a complimentary ensemble and light a fragrant candle for a finishing touch of sweetness.
Fireworks and sparklers may be the main event of the evening, but you may want to consider adding a supporting act to keep everyone entertained prior to the show. Yes everyone loves music and dancing, but why not up the ante with a US trivia game that keeps the spirits high with a little healthy competition?