Creating the Perfect Fourth of July Weekend

It is rare that we get to enjoy a full, 3 day, fourth of July weekend. This year, July 4th falls on a Friday, which means long weekends for all, and more time to get away for special activities.

Camping in July is always a hit, and now is the time to book your last minute July 4th reservations. Plan to travel more than 2 hours away from home to put yourself in a different scenery. Choose somewhere with a lake, or ocean, where your family can chill out by the water in the hot July sun. Pack along camping favorites such as hot dogs, hamburgers and s'mores. Camping is a low budget, but fun activity for your entire family to enjoy over the July 4th weekend.

If you prefer not to spend oodles on gas for the three day weekend, plan a big party at home. Send out invites via email to save on postage, and to be more green. If your state allows it, plan to purchase some low budget fireworks to set up, and get plenty of sparklers for the kids. Require a red, white and blue theme for the party. Have every guest bring a dish with something, red, white, or blue in it to make the party more festive.

For those of you with very small children, check with your family and friends to find out who may be available to watch your children for an evening. Not everyone celebrates July 4th in a big way, so if you can get the opportunity for a night off from the kids, take it! Once your babysitting arrangements are made, grab a picnic blanket, a bottle of wine if allowed, and head to a local park that is shooting off fireworks. Better yet, find a spot where you can watch the fireworks away from the crowds for a more romantic evening. Then, have your bottle of wine, some yummy cheese and snacks, and enjoy a beautiful evening out.

If you've been dying to see the next town overs' fireworks displays, this is the year to do it. With the three day weekend, you'll have plenty of the time to make the drive to see bigger and better fireworks in surrounding towns. Pack a picnic dinner, and a frisbee to kill time until the fireworks begin. Always make sure to bring a poncho in case it rains.

If you've been thinking about a romantic getaway for just the two of you, take advantage of some specials that B&B's run over the holidays. You may even be able to find some deals for a 'Stay 2 nights, get the 3rd free' for the holiday weekend. Keep it simple, and low key, so that you can enjoy a stress free weekend.

If you have children of all ages, get them involved in planning the big July 4th celebration. Have them all submit ideas for what they want to do, and then draw the idea from a hat to choose. This makes it fair for all the kids, and make it more fun and spontaneous in the planning. Get them involved in all the regalia that comes with a July 4th bash or BBQ.

The best way to enjoy your July 4th celebration, wherever you are, is to be with the ones you love and to embrace the joys of the three day weekend. Be safe, and if you plan to drink while you're out celebrating, make sure to secure a designated driver.