Whether you trace your ancestors back to the Revolutionary War or you are a first-generation American, getting together with family is a great way to celebrate the 4th of July.
Below are activities the entire family can enjoy, from the toddlers to the octogenarians, on this memorable national holiday.
~ 4th of July Activities ~
4th of July Relay Games
Relay games are a great way to get the whole family in on the action. With grandparents rattling noise makers and giving out humorous prizes, the games are bound to be fun for everyone. Below are listed a few with an Independence day twist but with a little brainstorming any game can fit the day.
- Pass the Flag
Each team member must run a set distance holding an American flag, then pass the flag to the next team member. The first team to finish is the winner. - Red, White, and Blue Balloon Waddle
Each team member must waddle a set distance with a patriotic balloon between his knees. The first team to finish is the winner. - Apple Under the Chin
Instead of the traditional orange clamped under the chin, try substituting an apple. Each team member must run a set distance without dropping his apple, then pass the apple to the next person. The first team to finish wins.
4th of July Family Parade
Few things top a 4th of July parade! What you’ll need:
- a big box of red, white and blue decorations (streamers, baloons, bells, hats, etc.)
- red, white and blue t-shirts with the family name and the year on it
- a decorative drum and other noisemakers
Start the day by handing out the t-shirts and then pairing each child with a Grandparent or older family member. Next, bring out the box of decorations and have every child and adult team decorate a bike, scooter, wagon, stroller, dog, or simply themselves for the parade.
Red, white and blue popsicles are a big hit during this time so be sure to keep the teams well fueled while they’re hard at work. When everyone is set, assign one person to be the drummer and lead the parade. You can either join in a larger neighborhood parade or keep it small and march around the block together.
Old-Fashioned 4th of July Picnic and Cook Book
One great 4th of July tradition is to have a family picnic but this time add a twist. Ask everyone to not only bring a dish but also the recipe as well. Gather the recipe’s together and later make copies for everyone, post to a family website or give as a gift book for all to enjoy!
4th of July Family Scrapbook
What better way to capture memories than to make a scrapbook of the event. Start by setting out a table with patriotic scrapbook supplies. Next, have each person create a their own scrapbook page with room to include their thoughts. You might be surprised at the stories people record, everything from wartime memories to last year’s incident with the sprinkler. If there are photos that go with these memories, be sure to attach them as well. If not, snap photos of this year’s 4th of July celebration.
Independence Day Family Photo
Nothing captures the essence of a backyard 4th of July celebration like a fun family photo. Right before the parade, when everyone is dressed to celebrate, gather the gang together. Pop some patriotic music on the stereo, and set up your camera on a tripod. Get everyone positioned in a shady spot, and start snapping photos. You’ll love looking back on the images in years to come.
No matter how you celebrate the 4th of July, you’ll love spending this special holiday with the people who matter most.
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To learn more about capturing your parent or grandparent’s life story in a Legacy Video, visit FamilyTreeVideo.com.
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