Host an Independence Day Party

Center your festivities on the fireworks. Chances are that there will be some fireworks going off somewhere near your house. If you live in a county which allows you to set off elaborate fireworks, then there are bound to be spectacular pyrotechnics near your house for you and your guests to ooh and aah over. If not, then try to host your party somewhere near a fireworks show so you and your guests can stretch out on lounge chairs and admire the fireworks.

All you'll need to provide are some snacks and drinks, but let the fireworks take care of the entertainment. If your budget (and local government) allows for it, you will want to pick up some cheap fireworks for your guests to set off too, although if you live in an area where fireworks are allowed then you will probably find that your guests will bring along their own fireworks without you even having to ask them to.

Have a patriotic face-painting station. A pack of face paints is not too expensive, and if you have the talent to paint patriotic themes on your guests' faces this can turn a regular party into a special one. Kids and adults alike will have a good time with the face painting, and if you do a great job you might just obtain free advertising by word of mouth about your artistic ability and start doing it at other people's parties for profit.

Children especially enjoy this type of activity at a party, and something like this will elevate a regular party into the realm of being classified as a great party. Be sure to have a camera handy so that you can get pictures of everyone's faces after you paint them. Not sure what to paint? Think stars and stripes, fireworks, and any other image which is reminiscent of Independence Day.

Try something like a red, white, and blue cat face for younger kids or paint the words,"Happy 4th!" on an adult's cheek. If this is something you have never done before, you will want to try it out on a few willing volunteers well in advance of the party. You don't want your first try to be with a bunch of kids screaming for their faces to be painted and then becoming disappointed that their cat face looks more like a clown.

Think outside: BBQ, water balloon tosses, and softball games. When most people envision Independence Day parties, they think of being outside tossing the football around or enjoying a hot dog. Having your party outdoors, such as in a large backyard or park, allows your guests to enjoy all the outdoor fun they can handle. Provide some sports equipment and some food and drinks, then stand back and watch your friends and family have a great time enjoying the outdoors and celebrating Independence Day.