Americans Abroad: Ways to Celebrate July 4th

While many Americans in the United States are gearing up for Independence Day by putting out our American flag, gathering with family and friends, firing the grills, and watching fireworks, what can the many Americans who live abroad do to celebrate July 4th?

One thing is to contact one's nearest American embassy or consulate and see what they have planned. Many embassies and consulates celebrate the 4th with fireworks, food, and the gathering of expatriates. This gives Americans in many countries a chance to unite, feel patriotic, and reconnect with the American culture. It is a great way for Americans in foreign countries to network for either work or pleasure. For Americans interested in attending embassy or consulate celebrations they need to get in touch with the nearest embassy or consulate in their country of residence. They can do this by visiting www.state.gov and going to their country's website and registering for the July 4th celebration. If they do not register for the celebrations ahead of time they cannot attend the celebrations, so if one is interested please register as one cannot show up at the door and walk-in.

Another way for Americans overseas to celebrate July 4th is to "get a party started" so to speak. Americans should invite locals of the country their in, to their house or location and celebrate by making one's favorite 4th of July dishes. Grilled meats, green salads, potatoes and pasta salad, fresh vegetables and fruit, and many desserts are a must at any Independence Day celebration. Just be sure if locals are attending the celebration to keep in mind local tradition as well, such if one is in an Islamic country do not put pig on the menu. Locals are interested in how Americans celebrate their day of independence inviting them to partake in American celebration gives them insight to the meaning and importance of this day to the typical American and encourages friendly cultural exchanges. During the party give one's guests a chance to ask questions about July 4th and other questions about America and what it means to be an American. Towards the end of the party be sure to turn the tables and ask one's guests about their country's patriotic day and how they celebrate.

Whatever way Americans abroad pick to celebrate July 4th they should always remember they are representing America and should avoid bringing negative attention or embarrassment to America and other Americans abroad.