How to Plan for a Long Weekend

You're likely super excited about your upcoming long weekend, and planning what you're going to do is part of the fun! A long weekend is the perfect time to make memories, whether you take a trip or stay home. To get the most out of your weekend, decide what you're going to do before the weekend starts. You deserve time to rest and have fun, so use your time off to something you enjoy.

Steps

Going on a Weekend Getaway

1. Compare taking a road trip versus taking a flight. Generally, short road trips are the best way to spend a long weekend because they'll allow you to spend more time enjoying your destination. However, you might choose to book a flight if you want to go further from home. Plan a road trip if your destination is 2-3 hours away, but consider flying if you want to travel further from home.^[1]
   
   • Check the cost of plane tickets and the price of gas to figure out how much more expensive it would be to fly. You might be able to find deals for some destinations.
   • A long road trip could work for you if you want to stop in other cities along the way.
   • Talk to your travel companions about what they want to do if you're traveling with others.
2. Plan a trip to visit friends and family in another city. You might be able to have a fun, low-cost weekend getaway by staying with someone you know. Contact your closest friends and family members and ask if they can accommodate you for the weekend. Offer to bring them a host gift or to pay for a group outing in exchange for staying at their home.^[2]
   
   • If you can't stay with family or friends, you can still visit them! Ask if they can meet up for an afternoon or to have dinner, and make sure to get recommendations for things to do while in town.
3. Book a trip if you can afford a hotel and travel costs. Maximize a long weekend by taking a mini-vacation. You might go somewhere exciting, like Las Vegas or New York City, but you could also stay closer to home. Make travel and hotel arrangements ahead of time so you won't have to worry about everything being booked up. Then, enjoy your whirlwind trip.^[3]
   
   • Make the most of a short vacation by leaving as soon as you can on Friday evening and returning as late as possible on Sunday.
4. Travel to a nearby city for a weekend getaway. You don’t need to go far to have fun! Go on a short road trip to a city or town that’s close to home. Both big and small cities will provide a fun change of pace.^[4]
   
   • Pick a major city if there’s one close to you. For instance, visit Chicago, Seattle, Portland, Houston, Austin, New Orleans, Atlanta, Boulder, Miami Beach, Philadelphia, San Diego, San Francisco, or New York.
   • If there aren’t any big cities near you, don’t worry! You can still have fun in another small town. Check out their local eateries, parks, and shops.
5. Look for quirky hotels, restaurants, and activities to enjoy. Many cities and towns boast something unique that will create a memorable experience for you. This might include a funky restaurant, a trendy boutique hotel, or a local landmark, such as a big ball of yarn or a large fire hydrant. Schedule visits to the quirky attractions in the city you choose for your getaway.^[5]
   
   • If you’re staying overnight, focus on boutique hotels that have a unique flavor or pick an Airbnb to experience the city like a local.
   • When eating out, check online to find the hotspot bars and restaurants where you’re going. You might visit a teahouse, food truck park, or fusion restaurant that combines different cuisines.
   • Check the city’s website to find a listing of any special events happening over the weekend. Similarly, learn about the city’s popular attractions, like museums.
   • You can find a list of fun attractions near you here: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/
6. Schedule activities in advance to maximize your trip. When traveling over a long weekend, it's easy to feel like all you did was arrive and depart. Doing a variety of activities on your getaway will help you feel like you took a full trip. Plan how you'll spend each day and book reservations for your activities, if necessary.^[6] Be sure to leave transition time between activities so you don't get behind schedule.^[7]
   
   • For example, your Saturday plans in a beach town might include watching the sunrise over the ocean, eating breakfast at a local cafe, going to a museum, eating lunch at a food truck, swimming in the ocean, eating dinner at a popular seaside restaurant, and watching a movie with your family.
   • Some activities may fill up or sell out over the weekend, so it's best to book things before you go.^[8]
7. Build anticipation by talking about your trip in the days before it. Discussing what you'll do on your trip before you go can help you feel like your trip was longer than it really was. Talk to your family and friends about your travel plans. Additionally, look at photos of the place where you'll be going and read advice from other travelers about how to get the most out of your experiences.^[9]
   
   • Say things like, "I can't wait to hit the slopes this weekend," or "This time tomorrow I'll be relaxing on a beach. I can't wait to feel the sand between my toes."
   • When it comes to finding tips, you might read reviews about a famous restaurant you want to visit to find out when you're less likely to have to wait for a table.
8. Check out a state landmark or historical site for an educational activity. Most areas have an important landmark or site nearby that is open for visitors. Travel to a landmark or historical location to walk the grounds, read the posted facts, and take photos. Invite family and friends to join you so you can all talk about what you learned.^[10]
   
   • For instance, you might visit the Alamo if you’re in Texas, the Statue of Liberty if you’re in New York, Independence Hall if you live near Philadelphia, Mount Rushmore if you’re near South Dakota, or Alcatraz Island if you’re near California.

Enjoying the Great Outdoors

1. Go on a hiking or camping trip during cool, clear weather conditions. Spending time outdoors relaxes you and stokes your adventurous spirit. Plan a hike at a local park or nature reserve. If you want to camp overnight, reserve a camping spot, pack your camping gear, and invite others to go with you.^[11]
   
   • If you’re camping, make sure your tent can hold everyone who is coming.
   • If you live in a warm area, spring and fall might be the best time for hiking and camping. In cooler areas, late spring, summer, and early fall might be the best time to go hiking or camping.
2. Hang out at the beach or lake on a warm, sunny weekend. A fun day at the beach can give you instant vacation vibes. If the weather is warm and clear, there’s no better place than the beach or lakeside. Pack up your bathing suit, blankets, towels, and a picnic. Then, enjoy a long day at the beach or lake.^[12]
   
   • You can visit the beach or lake for a day trip or a weekend-long getaway.
3. Visit a state or national park during spring, summer, or fall. National parks allow you to see natural wonders and wildlife up close, so they can give you a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Find the national park that's closest to you. Check the hours for the park and purchase tickets, if necessary. On the day of your visit, wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes to the park and carry drinking water with you.^[13]
   
   • For example, you might visit the Rocky Mountain National Park or Yellowstone National Park.
   • You can find a park near you by visiting here: https://www.nps.gov/findapark/index.htm
4. Take a ski trip in the mountains during snowy breaks. A visit to the mountains lets you enjoy an exhilarating adventure and cuddle by a fire. During cold weather, a trip to the mountains might be your perfect long weekend holiday getaway. Book a short stay at a mountain lodge or ski resort, then spend your free time on the slopes.^[14]
   
   • For instance, you might spend your weekend in Aspen, CO, Bend, OR, or Whistler, British Columbia.

Touring Your Town

1. Plan a special activity for each day and night. Make your long weekend special by pretending you're on vacation. Schedule fun events for each day to help keep your weekend exciting. Look for special events like concerts, parades, and festivals that are happening over the weekend. Additionally, pick activities you might do if you were vacationing in your city.^[15]
   
   • For instance, you might see a movie Friday night, visit a museum and a new restaurant on Saturday, play mini-golf and watch live music on Sunday, and join friends or family at a local park on Monday.
2. Spend an afternoon at the park. Parks are fun because they have playground equipment, walking paths, and attractive nature elements. Visit your local park for a picnic, games, or scenic walk. Make it an even more fun afternoon by inviting friends and family! Here are some activities you might try:^[16]
   
   • Bring board games and play at a picnic table or on a blanket.
   • Kick around a soccer or kickball.
   • Play a pickup game of baseball.
   • Draw on the sidewalk with chalk if it’s allowed.
   • Play badminton.
3. Eat at a restaurant you’ve always wanted to try. Sampling some new cuisine is a fun way to mix things up without having to travel outside your hometown. Pick a restaurant that you’ve never tried before or a place that has a lot of different kinds of dishes. Then, order something that you typically wouldn’t get.^[17]
   
   • If your city or town has limited restaurants, you might order a different entree at your favorite eatery.
4. Visit a local attraction in your city or town. It’s easy to forget about the fun things your city and town has to offer, and a long weekend is a perfect time to remind yourself that there’s fun all around you. Pretend like you’re on a vacation in your hometown and enjoy the recreational activities available. Here are some great options:^[18]
   
   • Play mini-golf.
   • Go bowling.
   • Tour a local museum.
   • Visit a nearby winery or brewery.
   • Walk along a local waterfront.
   • Go to the zoo.
   • Take a painting class.
5. Look for local events happening over the weekend. You never know what fun activities are going on until you look! There might be a movie screening, a farmers' market, a festival, or something else going on in your town that you never knew about—and a long weekend is the time to try it out.
   
   • To find fun events going on in your town, look for community boards where people can post flyers about what's happening. These can often be found in cafes, libraries, supermarkets, or public buildings.

Enjoying Your Break at Home

1. Spend your extra time working on a hobby. Your busy work or school week can make it hard to do the things you enjoy. A long weekend is the perfect time to engage in a favorite hobby. Dedicate a few hours over the weekend to your hobbies. For instance, you might do the following:^[19]
   
   • Knit a scarf.
   • Paint.
   • Build a birdhouse or shelf.
   • Write a short story.
   • Play a game.
   • Practice the guitar.
   • Make homemade bath products.
2. Read a book that captures your full attention. Reading can be a great escape, so it’s an excellent weekend activity. Pick a book that you find interesting and engaging. Then, snuggle up with a blanket and warm beverage so you can read in comfort.^[20]
   
   • As an example, you might pick a fantasy, science fiction, or adventure novel if you want to be transported to another world. On the other hand, you might pick a cozy mystery if you want a quirky puzzle to solve.
3. Binge watch a TV show or movie franchise that’s in your queue. Diving into a TV show or movie is a fun way to rest and relax. Best of all, you can likely do it for free. Pick a show that you’ve been wanting to watch or re-watch your favorites.^[21]
   
   • If you like, invite a friend or family member to enjoy a marathon with you.
4. Make a big meal for your family or friends. Enjoying a meal with people you care about is a great way to make memories, relax, and remind yourself what’s important. Invite friends and family to your home for lunch or dinner. Then, cook up a tasty meal or ask everyone to bring their favorite dish.^[22]
   
   • For example, you might host a picnic or barbeque if it’s warm outside.
   • On a cool day, make a big pot of chili or gumbo to share with those you love.
5. Complete a major home improvement project. You likely have projects that you want to tackle but just don’t have enough time to do. Luckily, a long weekend can be the perfect time to get these things done. Choose a project that will help you feel happier and more content at home. For instance, you might do 1 of the following:^[23]
   
   • Clear out your clutter and organize your home.
   • Redecorate a room in your home.
   • Paint a room.
   • Plant a garden.
   • Fix your car.
   • Lay stones for a new patio.
   • Get deck furniture.
   • Build a swing set.
6. Catch up or work ahead on work or school assignments. While it’s important to use your vacation to relax, you might decide to work if it’ll make your life easier in the future. Carve out a few hours in your weekend to take care of assignments or projects that are behind the deadline or to work a day or 2 ahead. However, remember to relax a bit, as well.^[24]
   
   • For example, you might catch up on a reading assignment for school or start working on a research paper you know is due soon.
   • Similarly, you might finish up a presentation for work that needs to be submitted as soon as possible.

Tips

• It’s best to plan out your activities in advance so you can make arrangements to do everything you’d like to do. However, try to stay flexible so your fun weekend doesn’t become stressful.^[25]
• Give yourself permission to relax and have fun so you can enjoy your break.^[26]

References

1. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/light-and-shadow/201306/looking-escape-the-impulse-run-away-it-all
2. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5954612/
3. ↑ https://www.apa.org/news/podcasts/speaking-of-psychology/vacation
4. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/how-my-brain-works/202307/why-our-body-and-brain-need-vacation
5. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/evidence-based-living/202207/get-the-best-psychological-boost-out-your-vacation
6. ↑ [v165416_b01]. 4 June 2025.
7. ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/resilience-activities-exercises/
8. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/benefits-of-play-for-adults.htm
9. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/harvard/benefits-of-mindfulness.htm
10. ↑ https://www.tn.gov/health/cedep/environmental/healthy-places/healthy-places/recreation/r/cultural-and-historical-places.html
11. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8111588/
12. ↑ https://psychcentral.com/health/watching-the-sunrise
13. ↑ https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/index.htm
14. ↑ https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/09/adventure-sports-navigating-decisions
15. ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/activity-scheduling-worksheets/
16. ↑ https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature
17. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/stretching-theory/201903/break-the-curse-all-you-can-eat-buffets
18. ↑ https://www.tn.gov/health/cedep/environmental/healthy-places/healthy-places/recreation/r/cultural-and-historical-places.html
19. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happy-trails/201509/six-reasons-get-hobby
20. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-art-effect/202203/the-mental-health-benefits-reading
21. ↑ https://psychcentral.com/blog/how-watching-movies-can-benefit-our-mental-health
22. ↑ https://raisingchildren.net.au/grown-ups/family-life/routines-rituals-relationships/family-routines
23. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-resilient-brain/202302/the-many-mental-benefits-of-decluttering
24. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/homework.html
25. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/click-here-for-happiness/202210/how-to-create-a-weekly-plan-to-stay-on-track
26. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/burnout-prevention-and-recovery.htm

How to Celebrate Independence Day

Celebrate the true meaning of American Independence Day

Gather your red, white, and blue accessories because the 4th of July is just around the corner! On July 4th, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress, and the United States of America was born. This holiday is also known as Independence Day and is celebrated with fireworks, delicious food, and more. Keep reading for the best and easiest ways you can celebrate the Fourth of July this year.

Celebrating the 4th of July

1. Wear a red, white, and blue outfit (and dress up your pets, too!).
2. Make patriotic treats like a flag cake or sugar cookies with red-white-and-blue sprinkles.
3. Attend an event like a parade, outdoor concert, fireworks show, or hot dog eating contest.
4. Host a block party or backyard barbeque (even better if a swimming pool is involved).^[1]
5. Visit a historical landmark or museum, or even watch a revolutionary reenactment.
6. Enjoy American landscapes at a national park or camping in a local wilderness area.

Steps

42 Ways to Celebrate Independence Day

1. Wear a red, white, and blue outfit. Dressing up in a patriotic outfit is a simple and affordable way to participate in the 4th of July. Plus, you’ll look absolutely fabulous! Toss on a red, blue, or white shirt or coordinate your whole outfit with a red top, blue bottoms, and white shoes.^[2]
   
   • Going to a family or neighborhood event? Wear matching 4th of July shirts!
2. Get into some patriotic tie-dying. Create a tie-dyed shirt, bag, or other item in red, white, and blue colors. Then, you can wear your item and show off your handiwork at any Fourth of July events you’re attending! One of the easiest ways to tie-dye a shirt is with Kool-Aid, which you can do by following these steps:^[3]
   • Mix 1 package of red Kool-Aid with of vinegar, then do the same with a packet of blue Kool-Aid. Stir both of your mixtures until the Kool-Aid is completely dissolved.
   • Use rubber bands to pull and twist your white shirt into different shapes. Then, dip the rubber-banded ends into the bowls to create the pattern you want.
   • Let dry, then cut the rubber bands and iron the shirt on medium-high with an ironing cloth between the iron and the fabric.
   • Let the top sit for 24 hours before washing.
3. Do a red, white, and blue make-up look. Try a simple, everyday patriotic look with royal blue eyeliner, bright red lipstick, and a dot of white highlighter in the inner corner of your eye. For something a bit more glam, recreate the star-spangled banner on your eyelids with these steps:
   • Apply a shimmery white eyeshadow onto the entirety of your eyelid.^[4]
   • Apply a cobalt blue gel eyeliner along your top lash line, creating a thick wing at the outer corner of your eye.^[5]
   • Color in the inner tear duct portion of your eye with a large white eye pencil and carry the color along your lower lash line.^[6]
   • Apply a vibrant red eyeshadow onto the outer two-thirds of your lower lash line and connect it to the blue wing you created in prior steps.^[7]
   • If you want to add even more patriotic flair, use a finely-sharpened white eyeliner or small artist’s brush to draw some tiny stars onto your brow bone.^[8]
4. Paint your nails in patriotic colors. Decorate your nails for the Fourth of July with any combination of red, white, and blue polishes—this can be as simple as painting different colors on alternating fingers! If you’re a bit more advanced, try painting red and blue polka dots onto a white polish base.^[9]
   
   • Or, paint red and white stripes onto your nails and apply a blue star-shaped nail sticker in the center.
5. Make red, white, and blue treats. It’s your patriotic duty to indulge in a little (or a lot of) dessert on Independence Day. Make a festive display of any type of themed treat, including cakes, pies, cookies, and more! Get started with these ideas for Fourth of July foods:
   • Star Spangled Banner Cake: Purchase or bake a large vanilla sheet cake. Outline and fill in a small rectangle in the top-left corner of the cake with cream cheese frosting. Cover the rectangle with blueberries, then use a star tip to frost on small white stars. On the rest of the cake, create alternating horizontal rows of two lines of raspberries and two lines of frosting until the cake is covered.^[10]
   • Above the Fruited Trifle: Fill a trifle dish with alternating layers of pound cake cubes, blueberries and blackberries, whipped cream cheese frosting, and strawberries. Finish the top of the trifle with artfully arranged red and blue fruits.^[11]
   • Of Thee Ice Cream Sandwiches: Make a batch of sugar cookie dough and mix in a generous amount of red, white, and blue sprinkles. Bake the cookies according to recipe instructions, then let them cool before placing a scoop of ice cream between the flat side of two cookies. Freeze the sandwiches at least 1 hour before serving.
6. Set up an ice cream bar with red, white, and blue toppings. Give your guests a DIY dessert that’s as delicious as it is patriotic! Set out enough sundae cups for each of your guests to have one (or two) servings. Then, fill a table with cartons of different-flavored ice creams and bowls of red-white-and-blue toppings.
   • For example, you could offer maraschino cherries, blueberries, strawberries, white chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, strawberry sauce, whipped cream, and sprinkles!
7. Make refreshing and patriotic cocktails. Serve up a batch of delicious red, white, and blue cocktails. Try a patriotic margarita by blending diced watermelon into your usual margarita recipe. Instead of salt, dust the rim with blue sanding sugar and add a garnish of honeydew melon stars on a stick (use a star-shaped cookie cutter to get the perfect look!).
   
   • For a more kid-friendly drink, mix equal parts liquid strawberry daiquiri mix, liquid piña colada mix, and Cool Blue Gatorade. Serve the drink over ice (and you can always add a splash of rum for the 21-and-over crowd).^[12]
8. Decorate your home in red, white, and blue. Add Fourth of July decorations to your porch, yard, and the interior of your home—whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying them yourself! Start with the classic mini American flag or spruce up your home with red, white, and blue streamers.
9. Dress your pets in red, white, and blue outfits. Make sure your furry friend has a chance to get in on the holiday spirit! Tie a red-white-and-blue bandana around your cat or dog’s neck, or fasten a star-spangled bow tie to their collar. You can even look for Uncle Sam hats made for your canine or feline friends!
10. Do some patriotic arts and crafts. Keep the little ones occupied with festive coloring, painting, or beading. Arts and crafts are the perfect side activity for family-friendly events, plus they give kiddos a sweet souvenir to leave with. Check out these fun 4th of July crafts:^[13]
    
    • Cut red, white, and blue crepe paper into strips and tape them to the inside of a construction paper cylinder to make a paper windsock.
    • Finger paint with red, white, and blue to create an abstract flag or landscape.
    • Use red, white, and blue pony beads to fashion a patriotic pony bead bracelet.
11. Make a patriotic wreath. A DIY craft project is a great way to spend your Fourth of July—plus, you can use these wreaths as decorations for any party you might be planning! There are lots of different options online for how to make the perfect Independence Day wreath, but try this hydrangea one for a quick and easy option:^[14]
    • You’ll need a wire wreath frame, paddle wire, star-patterned blue ribbon, six fake red hydrangea stems, and six fake white hydrangea stems.
    • Arrange your hydrangeas around the wreath so that they’re alternating red and white. Cut the stem off of each flower, then use a piece of paddle wire to secure them to the wire wreath.
    • Tie your blue ribbon around one part of the wreath in a big bow and use the paddle wire to secure it if necessary.
12. Attend a parade in your town or city. Kick off the day by watching the band and patriotic floats march by. Many communities and cities host parades on the 4th of July that are usually free to attend.^[15] Simply jump in the car and head down to the parade street to get a prime seat. This activity is sure to please family members of all ages.^[16]
13. Go to an outdoor concert. Many cities and towns host concerts in local parks to celebrate the Fourth of July. Along with concerts, you may be able to find outdoor film showings and theater performances happening throughout your city. Search “outdoor concerts” or “outdoor movies” along with the name of your town to find some events near you.
    
14. Spend the day at an amusement park. Fill your Fourth of July with a busy schedule of rollercoasters, fair food, and arcade games. A day at the theme park screams Americana summer, so it’s a great way to commemorate all of the things you love about the American lifestyle. Many amusement parks also host special events like patriotic parades and costume contests on the Fourth.
15. Watch (or participate in) a hot dog eating contest. Search online to see if anyone in your town is hosting an Independence Day hot dog eating contest. If so, apply to participate or show up with your friends and family to watch the madness! You can also have your own amateur contest at home. Fire up the grill and challenge your loved ones to see who can eat the most hot dogs.
16. Host or attend a block party. If your neighborhood doesn’t already have an annual block party, organize one yourself! Reach out to your friends and neighbors and let them know that you’re planning a Fourth of July block party. Ask everyone to bring their favorite potluck dish, and set up a speaker system and holiday activities to make the party as fun and memorable as possible.^[17]
    
    • Research your city’s requirements for hosting a block party. You may need to file a permit or register the event with your local town hall.^[18]
17. Host a backyard barbeque. Who doesn’t like a good old-fashioned barbeque? With the 4th of July at the peak of summer, it’s the perfect time to plan a cookout.^[19] Decorate the table with red, white, and blue decor, and ask everyone to bring a festive dessert. Here are some of our favorite cookout staples:^[20]
    • Berry cobbler with vanilla ice cream
    • Red, white, and blue poke cake with homemade whipped cream
    • Sponge cake decorated like the American flag
    • Red, white, and blue rocket popsicles
    • Potato salad
    • Pasta salad
    • Fruit salad
18. Attend a party on a nearby military base. If you live near an army base, you might not know that most of these bases host some sort of public 4th of July party.^[21] Search online or reach out to your local military chapter to find out the details of their Independence Day event (which usually includes fireworks, bouncy houses, and live music).
19. Watch a local fireworks show. Fireworks are a classic Independence Day activity and are great for the whole family. Check your town’s social media sites or ask neighbors to see where the festivities take place.^[22][23]
    
    • Check out our guide on photographing fireworks to get lasting memories of this year’s holiday.
    • If you are attending a local firework show in your town, you might see some of your friends from your school.
    • Can’t attend a local show? National firework displays from big cities like New York City and Washington D.C. are often televised.
20. Light sparklers in your backyard. Are you unable to travel into the city for a fireworks show? Fortunately, firework stands pop up all over town around this holiday. Just make sure to check your area’s fireworks regulations before lighting anything, as many states have specific laws that must be followed.^[24]
    • The American Pyrotechnics Association has an online directory you can reference for consumer fireworks regulations by state.
    • Sparklers are a great, fun, and relatively safe firework for kids and adults.
    • You can also make your own fireworks at home, such as sparklers, glow snakes, and smoke bombs.
    • Be cautious when shooting off fireworks yourself.
21. Host a patriotic movie marathon. Immerse yourself in the holiday's history by watching a movie that centers around the Declaration of Independence, the Revolutionary War, or the Founding Fathers. Here are some great films to add to the Independence Day movie marathon list:^[25]
    • Hamilton
    • 1776
    • Harriet
    • National Treasure
    • Top Gun
    • Independence Day
    • Born on the Fourth of July
22. Listen to a patriotic playlist. Use your favorite streaming service or music platform to craft a perfect playlist filled with your favorite patriotic bops. Queue up your playlist when you’re at a party, backyard cookout, or watching fireworks at the park. Here are some classic Americana songs to get you started:^[26]
    
    • My Country ‘Tis by Dolly Parton
    • Kids in America by Kim Wilde
    • Firework by Katy Perry
    • Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus
    • Born in the USA by Bruce Springsteen
    • The Star Spangled Banner by Francis Scott Key (notable recordings by Jimi Hendrix and Chris Stapleton)
    • America the Beautiful by Katherine Lee Bates and Samuel Augustus Ward (notable recordings by Ray Charles and Mariah Carey)
23. Attend a baseball game. Celebrate America’s independence with America’s favorite pastime. Hot dogs, sun, and that oh-so-familiar baseball tune, what’s not to love? Take the family to a local game or drive to the nearest major league stadium to see your favorite team.
    • Couldn’t grab tickets? Pick up a mitt, ball, and bat and gather the whole neighborhood for a friendly game.
24. Have a volleyball tournament. Beach volleyball is one of the most classic summer sports—and its origins can actually be traced back to Massachusetts, making it uniquely American!^[27] Get together a group of competitive friends and kick off a new annual volleyball tournament tradition at your local beach or in your backyard.
25. Play backyard games. Get your friends and family together for a tournament of nostalgic outdoor games on July 4th. Some backyard games that everyone will love include croquet, horseshoes, cornhole, badminton, and more! Sneak these games in between your delicious barbecue and the fireworks show for a perfect Independence Day celebration.
    
26. Play pool games to beat the heat. If you have a day off on a beautiful summer’s day…you may as well enjoy it to the fullest! Invite your friends and family to enjoy the pool with you. Stock up on pool floats, water basketball sets, and blow-up beach balls to treat your loved ones to a swimming extravaganza.^[28]
    • Don’t have a pool? Invest in an above ground swimming pool, or just get a large kiddie pool that you can pull out whenever you need it!
    • Alternatively, set up a sprinkler or slip and slide with the same amount of fun with slightly less fuss!
27. Have a water balloon fight. If it’s looking like this July 4th will be a scorcher, there’s no better way to cool off than with a water balloon fight. If you’re hosting the whole extended family for the Fourth, set up a kids-versus-adults battle for an extra dose of competitive spirit.^[29]
28. Rent a boat and take it out on the water. Hit the high seas to fully relax (and beat the heat) on a hot July day. Look into renting a speedboat or even a kayak, and spend the day cooling off at your nearest ocean, lake, or river.
    
29. Go fishing. The Fourth of July is a great day to make time for any classic summer activity—including fishing. Get outside and enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of nature, and bring along your friends and family if they’re interested. If you make a good catch, bring it along to the holiday cookout!
30. Go berry picking. The most popular season for patriotism is also the best for berry-picking! Go to a local farm that offers U-pick options and load up on fresh strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Snack your fruit as is, or turn it into a beautiful berry pie to serve at your backyard barbecue later.
31. Have a picnic. Sometimes, something as simple as having a picnic can make the most memories. Round up the family, pack the picnic basket, and head to your favorite park. Bring a ball or frisbee to play with after your meal for even more summertime fun.^[30]
    
    • Many parks will host events on or around the 4th of July. Check your park’s social media pages or website to see what’s planned.
    • Don’t live close to a park? Lay out the picnic blanket in your backyard or even your living room.
    • Make your holiday picnic even more special by turning it into a family reunion. Invite all the cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents to spend a day together at the park.
32. Make backyard s’mores. Nothing screams “summer” more than a toasted pillow of marshmallow and a melted chunk of chocolate between two graham crackers. Roasting marshmallows is a downright delicious way to spend time together as a family and reflect on America’s history.^[31]
    • Don’t have a fire pit? Make s’mores in the microwave rain or shine!
33. Visit a national monument or historical landmark. Take a family vacation or a day trip to visit a location that’s important to American history. Head to Washington D.C., the nation’s capital, or Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to fully immerse yourself in the 4th of July’s history.^[32]
34. Check out a historical reenactment. Historical reenactments are a great way to learn about past events and have fun. Search “historical reenactment near me” to find opportunities in your area.
    
    • If you’re in the Philadelphia area, you can visit Independence Hall to watch actors reenact the moment the Declaration of Independence was signed.^[33]
35. Visit a history museum. A local or national museum trip can be enriching for all ages. It doesn’t matter what part of American history you learn about as long as you’re learning! Focus on an exhibit or specific museum that interests the whole family.
    • Plan your day around visiting a museum further away to turn the trip into a day vacation.
    • Find museums near you by searching “museums near me” online.
    • Double-check that the museum is open on the 4th of July, as some museums close for the holiday.
36. Visit a national park. The U.S. is home to some of the most breathtaking and diverse protected wilderness areas in the world—spend your holiday celebrating the beautiful landscapes that you get to call home! Take a trip to a national park for a day of hiking, sightseeing, or camping. Purple mountain majesties, indeed!
    • If you don’t live near a national park and can’t take a trip out of town, that’s okay! Look up campsites and hiking trails in your area—scenic landscapes are just as awe-inspiring whether they’re classified as national parks or not.
37. Study up on your U.S. history trivia.{endbold} Independence Day is the best day to brush up on facts about American history—even if you were born and raised in the U.S.A. Host a fun game of American trivia with your friends and family, or take some time to yourself to read through a list of Fourth of July fun facts.
    
38. Read a book about American history. Spend the quiet morning of your July 4th holiday catching up on some reading—and brushing up on your historical knowledge. Whether you have time to read a few pages or a whole book, try a biographical classic like Ron Chernow’s Alexander Hamilton or David W. Blight’s Frederick Douglass.^[34]
    • If you prefer fictional novels, read America’s First Daughter by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie or Rise to Rebellion: A Novel of the American Revolution by Jeff Shaara.
    • If you have children, introduce them to American History through books like Dear Mr. Washington by Lynn Cullen (early readers), The Thrifty Guide to the American Revolution: A Handbook for Time Travelers by Jonathan W. Stokes (elementary grades), Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson (middle grades), and A Girl Called Samson by Amy Harmon (young adult).
39. Read the Declaration of Independence. Reading the Declaration of Independence is extremely educational and eye-opening. Gather your family and friends around and take turns reading the words of our founding fathers.
    • If you have little ones, read the Declaration to them or, better yet, introduce them to the Declaration’s history with Schoolhouse Rock’s “The Declaration.”
40. Volunteer in your community. The 4th of July is all about freedom, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Many people in this country need help, and sparing just a few hours of your time can make someone’s day that much better. So, pass on the patriotic spirit by devoting some of your day to volunteering in a soup kitchen, homeless shelter, or veteran’s hospital.
    
    • Get the whole family involved to grow stronger together and spread compassion.
    • Go to VolunteerMatch.org to find volunteering opportunities near you.
41. Send a letter or package to a veteran or troop. America’s founding fathers put a lot of work into the nation’s freedom, and thanking the soldiers who have and are continuing to fight can make a huge difference. Veterans and troops sacrifice everything for us, so why not take a small moment of your day to send them a care package or write them a letter?^[35]
    • Operation Gratitude and Soldiers’ Angels can help your family connect with soldiers overseas.
    • Talk to your local community center or library to see if there are any opportunities to help local veterans.
42. Encourage others to register to vote. As a holiday that commemorates a nation’s liberty and the rights of its citizens, what better day is there to remind citizens of their right to vote? Sign up to volunteer at a voter registration event, recruit poll works, or even post an infographic on your social media about how important it is to vote in local and national elections.^[36]
    
    • Search online to see if any naturalization ceremonies are happening in your area on July 4th. Attend a ceremony to celebrate new American citizens and offer to help them register to vote!
    • Along with information about voter rights, spread the word about important deadlines for local petitions and landmark elections.
    • Of course, you should also make sure that you’re registered to vote and are tuned in to relevant elections!

The Best 4th of July Celebrations in the U.S.

1. Check out if any cities or towns near you host famous July 4th events. Many towns and cities across America put on awe-inspiring annual events that are famous from sea to shining sea—and they’re worth checking out if you’re anywhere nearby! Here are some more of the best Fourth of July celebrations to knock off your Independence Day bucket list:^[37]
   
   • Seward, Alaska : Attend the Mount Marathon 5K race followed by a 12:01 AM fireworks display under Alaska’s midnight sun.
   • San Diego, California: Watch the West Coast’s biggest fireworks display at San Diego’s Big Bay Boom.
   • New Orleans, Louisiana: Take in the live street performers and nightlife while watching fireworks explode over the Mississippi River.
   • Boston, Massachusetts: Experience the epicenter of the American Revolution with Harborfest fireworks and the annual Fourth of July Spectacular (featuring the Boston Pops and a closing round of cannon fire).
   • Fire Island Pines, New York: Celebrate queer history alongside American history by joining drag queens and kings at the Invasion of the Pines, which commemorates Independence Day in 1976 when a group of drag queens protested a local restaurant’s refusal to serve them.
   • New York City, New York: Visit Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog-Eating Contest at Coney Island or watch the fireworks in Macy's Fourth of July Spectacular over the East River.
   • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Join a full weekend of historical reenactments, free museum days, outdoor films, and Independence Day parades.
   • Mount Rushmore, South Dakota: Mingle with re-enactors playing the four presidents depicted on the infamous Mt. Rushmore and watch live performances from noted Native American storytellers.
   • Nashville, Tennessee: Attend the Let Freedom Sing! Music festival with a lineup of famous country music singers, then watch one of the country’s largest fireworks shows.
   • Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia: Watch reenactments of Thomas Jefferson reading the Declaration of Independence, learn about the contradiction of American liberation and slavery on the Freedom’s Paradox tour, and experience historic marching and sing-a-long performances.
   • Washington, D.C.: Take in fireworks at the National Mall against the skyline of the Washington Monument, White House, and U.S. Capitol.
   • Jackson Hole, Wyoming : Attend a Wild West jamboree with horses, clowns, and even a shootout reenactment.

What does the 4th of July celebrate?

1. The Fourth of July marks the announcement of the Declaration of Independence. On July 4th, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was officially announced, and the American colonies officially asserted their independence from British rule after more than a year of war.^[38]
   
   • As the members of the colonies celebrated on that day in 1776, American citizens take the annual opportunity to continue the tradition and commemorate the ideals that their nation was founded on.
   • Keep in mind that while the Fourth of July is often seen as a celebration of freedom, not all residents of the United States were free in 1776—that’s why we also commemorate the ending of slavery on Juneteenth.^[39]

Video

Tips

• While most regions of the U.S. will be hot and sunny on the Fourth of July, rain is possible! Prepare an indoor backup plan for your Independence Day celebrations if you think it might rain (or at least invest in some red-white-and-blue umbrellas).

Related wikiHows

• Observe Veterans Day
• Celebrate Flag Day
• Celebrate Memorial Day

References

1. ↑ [v163210_b01]. 20 November 2024.
2. ↑ https://www.countryliving.com/entertaining/g4463/4th-of-july-activites/
3. ↑ https://www.food.com/recipe/kool-aid-tie-dyed-t-shirts-194640
4. ↑ https://youtu.be/TgjDSOxHxaQ?t=63
5. ↑ https://youtu.be/TgjDSOxHxaQ?t=88
6. ↑ https://youtu.be/TgjDSOxHxaQ?t=108
7. ↑ https://youtu.be/TgjDSOxHxaQ?t=144
8. ↑ https://youtu.be/TgjDSOxHxaQ?t=216
9. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/g21749867/4th-of-july-activities/
10. ↑ https://www.wellplated.com/flag-cake/
11. ↑ https://natashaskitchen.com/no-bake-strawberry-blueberry-trifle/
12. ↑ https://www.somewhatsimple.com/drinks-for-4th-of-july/#wprm-recipe-container-94203
13. ↑ https://www.purewow.com/family/4th-of-july-crafts
14. ↑ https://littleblondemom.com/diy-patriotic-wreath/?et_fb=1
15. ↑ [v161122_b01]. 29 October 2024.
16. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/g21749867/4th-of-july-activities/
17. ↑ [v161122_b01]. 29 October 2024.
18. ↑ https://www.nyc.gov/site/cecm/permitting/permit-types/block-parties.page
19. ↑ [v163210_b01]. 20 November 2024.
20. ↑ https://www.southernliving.com/food/holidays-occasions/fourth-of-july-party-recipes
21. ↑ https://www.army.mil/article/258007/fourth_of_july_holiday_schedule_for_facilities_services_released
22. ↑ [v163210_b01]. 20 November 2024.
23. ↑ http://www.businessinsider.com/8-affordable-fun-ways-to-celebrate-the-4th-of-july-2012-6
24. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/g21749867/4th-of-july-activities/
25. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/entertainment/g27656502/4th-of-july-movies/
26. ↑ https://www.countryliving.com/entertaining/g4463/4th-of-july-activites/
27. ↑ https://olympics.com/en/news/what-history-volleyball-game-origin-mintonette-ymca-fivb-olympics
28. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/g21749867/4th-of-july-activities/
29. ↑ https://www.countryliving.com/entertaining/g4463/4th-of-july-activites/
30. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/g21749867/4th-of-july-activities/
31. ↑ https://www.womansday.com/life/g3009/4th-of-july-activities/?slide=2
32. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/g21749867/4th-of-july-activities/
33. ↑ https://www.visitphilly.com/articles/philadelphia/fourth-of-july-in-philadelphia-wawa-welcome-america/#fourth-of-july-at-colonial-plantation
34. ↑ https://mcpl.info/staff-picks/American%20Revolution%20Biographies
35. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/g21749867/4th-of-july-activities/
36. ↑ https://www.lwv.org/elections/increasing-voter-registration
37. ↑ https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-fourth-of-july-celebrations-around-us
38. ↑ https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/july-4th
39. ↑ https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/historical-legacy-juneteenth

How to Keep a Tent Cool

Camping is a fun outdoor activity, even on hot summer days. However, your tent can get really uncomfortable if it’s hot. Fortunately, you have options for keeping your tent cool. You can beat the heat by using your supplies to your advantage, pitching your tent in the right spot, and using a tarp or sunshade to block out heat.

Steps

Cooling a Pitched Tent

1. Bring your cooler of ice into the tent. If you brought your food or drinks in a cooler, the chill from the ice is the best way to lower the temperature of your tent. Place the cooler in the tent and open it. The ice will cool down the air in the tent so you’re more comfortable.
   
   • If you don’t want all of your ice to melt, take a few handfuls of ice out of the cooler and place them in a bowl or container. Then, place it inside your tent.
2. Use a battery-operated fan to circulate the air. Place your fan in the doorway of the tent or in a back corner. If it has the option, place it on oscillating so it better increases the air circulation. This will help cool down your tent.
   
   • Even a small personal fan can make a big difference! However, try to bring a larger portable fan if you can find one.
3. Open your tent’s door and vents if it has any. This allows more air to circulate inside your tent. If your tent has mesh to protect you from bugs and animals, leave your doors and vents open all of the time. Otherwise, leave the door and vents open when you’re not in the tent and during the day.^[1]
   
   • If you’re shopping for a tent, look for 1 that has a mesh layer so that you can leave the doors and vents open longer. Additionally, pick a tent that has vents because it’ll be cooler.
4. Remove the rain fly if the weather forecast doesn’t predict rain. Most tents come with a rain fly to keep moisture from entering the main chamber. Because these are often quite thick, they can trap in heat and raise the temperature of the tent. If there’s no rain in the forecast, remove the rain fly and store it in the tent bag. This can help keep the tent cool.^[2]
   
   • If you have a tarp or sunshade over your tent, you may not need your rain fly even if it is raining. The tarp or sunshade should keep the rain out of your tent.
5. Sleep on top of your sleeping bag to stay cool. Since sleeping bags are designed to retain heat, don’t get inside it if it’s warm in the tent. Instead, lay on top of the tent so you’re comfortable and cool.^[3]
   
   • If more than 1 person is sleeping inside your tent, body heat will increase the temperature of the tent. Keep that in mind if you’re worried about getting cold.

Setting up Your Tent

1. Put your tent in a shady spot, like under a tree. If possible, choose a spot where trees will cover your tent. This way, the trees will absorb most of the heat so your tent stays cool. Otherwise, look for an area that’s in the shadow of a larger structure, like a mountain.^[4]
   
   • Shady locations are typically found under a tree, near low hills, under ridges, or close to any nearby cabins.
   • Remember that the sun's position moves, so look for areas that will keep your tent cool while you are in it. For instance, an eastern ridge will likely block the sun better in the morning than a western ridge would.
2. Find an area with good wind circulation. Blowing wind will keep the temperature lower, so choose a home base that has good circulation. Additionally, position the door of your tent so that it’s facing the wind.^[5]
   
   • To figure out which way the air is blowing, hold your hand up into the air. The cold side of your hand will tell you which direction the wind is blowing from. As another option, check a weather app if you have cellular reception.
3. Camp by a river or lake where it’s cooler. It’s typically cooler near bodies of water, so they’re a great place to camp during hot weather. If you’re near a lake, pond, or ocean, point your tent toward the coast to catch any breezes rolling off the water. For rivers and creeks, point your tent upstream to catch cool winds.^[6]
   
4. Place a blanket under your tent to block ground heat. The ground naturally heats up as it absorbs the sun’s rays. This heat can radiate up into your tent, raising the temperature. Covering the ground with a blanket can keep the heat trapped below your tent. Pitch your tent on top of the blanket.
   
5. Set up your tent after dark to avoid the daytime heat. Unless you plan on using it throughout the day, build your tent after the sun starts setting. Until then, keep it in its bag and store it in a cool or shaded area. For particularly hot days, keep your tent bag on ice.^[7]
   
   • If the sun is up, heat will be building up inside your tent.
   • If you’re worried it’ll be hard to set up your tent in the dark, do it while the sun is setting so there’s still light.
6. Take down the tent during the day if it’s very hot. While it’s inconvenient to have to put your tent back up every day, this can prevent your tent from feeling like an oven. Tents are designed to hold heat, so your tent will get hotter and hotter if you leave it up. For best results, take your tent down in the morning and put it back up in the evening.^[8]
   
   • Store the tent in a cool area so that it stays as cool as possible.

Using a Tarp or Reflective Shade

1. Get a tarp or sunshade that covers your entire tent. While a sunshade works best, a tarp or blanket can also keep the heat off of your tent. Pick up a sunshade or tarp before you go camping, or use what you have to block out the sun.
   
   • The sun is typically what makes your tent heat up, so blocking its rays will be a big help.
2. Push stakes or poles into the ground to support the tarp or sunshade. Most sunshades come with the poles you need to set it up. If you're using a tarp or blanket, you can use loose stakes or poles. Put them in the ground deep enough to keep them steady. Then, tie the poles together to create a base to hold up your sunshade or tarp.^[9]
   
   • It’s best to drape the tarp or sunshade over a tree branch for added support.
   • You can find stakes and poles at your local camping or outdoor store.
3. Drape your tarp or sunshade at least above the tent. Gently place the sunshade or tarp over the pole or stakes. Adjust it so that it covers the entire tent. Leave space between the tarp or sunshade and the top of your tent so that air can circulate.^[10]
   
   • The sun’s rays will bounce off the sunshade or tarp, which will prevent them from soaking into your tent.

Tips

• Wearing cool, comfortable clothes and drinking lots of water will help you stay cool.^[11]
• While you're in your tent, place a wet washcloth or towel on your neck to cool you down.

Warnings

• If your tent causes you to sweat significantly and feel faint, nauseous, confused, or weak while inside, exit immediately, find a cool, shady place to recover, and drink lots of water.^[12]

References

Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://coolofthewild.com/how-to-stay-cool-while-camping/
2. ↑ https://coolofthewild.com/how-to-stay-cool-while-camping/
3. ↑ https://coolofthewild.com/how-to-stay-cool-while-camping/
4. ↑ https://coolofthewild.com/how-to-stay-cool-while-camping/
5. ↑ https://koa.com/blog/tips-for-staying-cool-on-summer-camping-trips/
6. ↑ https://coolofthewild.com/how-to-stay-cool-while-camping/
7. ↑ https://koa.com/blog/tips-for-staying-cool-on-summer-camping-trips/
8. ↑ https://koa.com/blog/tips-for-staying-cool-on-summer-camping-trips/
9. ↑ https://koa.com/blog/tips-for-staying-cool-on-summer-camping-trips/
10. ↑ https://koa.com/blog/tips-for-staying-cool-on-summer-camping-trips/
11. ↑ https://coolofthewild.com/how-to-stay-cool-while-camping/
12. ↑ https://coolofthewild.com/how-to-stay-cool-while-camping/