Planning Your 4th of July Party

Since Summer is almost here that means more and more parties outside will happen. Lots of people love to cook outside and have some fun. If you plan on celebrating Independence Day this year, make your party stand out. You want it to be big and fun and something your friends will remember for a long time.

Pick A Theme
Most will just use stars and flags as their theme, but there are many more you can choose from. You can add this in with the normal stars and stripes or go all out and be completely different. Themes like Clambake, Back Yard Barbecue, Hawaiian Luau or something like a potluck. This is your party and the choice is yours. For this article I will use the traditional BackYard barbecue.

Invitations
They should match your theme. For this party you can pick something like flag invitations or something with Uncle Sam on them. You can print some free online or just buy some from the store. Places like the dollar store have them if your trying to go the cheaper way. Since 4th of July parties are something most people do, you will want your invitation out pretty early so people will receive it in plenty of time. Try sending them out 3-4 weeks before your party date. If you know a lot of people who will be having a party, choose a different day for yours. This way more of your friends will be able to come.

Decorations
Your decoration is one of the most important steps. Since your going to be outside you will have lots of options to decorate. Line all your tables with patriotic colors or another star themed table cloth. If you buy the cheaper versions make sure you use tape to avoid mistakes later on in the evening. If you have tress then you should decorate them with red, white and blue streamers. Have some balloons in Patriotic colors scattered around. Buy a few citronella candles to place around the yard and on the tables. This will help keep bugs away.

Shopping
Always make sure you don't run out of anything. Gather a list and write down everything that you will need for your party. This way you don't forget anything when your at the store. Remember plates, napkins, silverware, ice and extra toilet paper. A lot more people will be using your restroom this day, and this is often overlooked. With your eating utensils I also buy 2-3 sets per person. Things get misplaced, dropped and who knows what else. Its always better to have extra then not enough. If you have a lot left over then you can use them in the house or save them next for next year.

Preparation
Make sure you have a backup plan. With the weather you never know what can happen. Have your home ready to fill with people if needed. Make any food that you can in advance so your not stuck cooking all night long. When you serve your food, try using containers that have lids. You don't want bugs in your food. Set up as much as you can the night before so its easier on you the next day. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you feel overwhelmed. Often enough, friends are more then willing to help.

Activities
If your party is for children along with adults then don't forget to buy things for the children to do. Kids love blowing bubbles and drawling things. Buy lots of bubbles and some sidewalk chalk. All these things can be found at the dollar store. They also have many outdoor games like lawn darts or jump ropes. You will want the kids to have fun along with the adults. Adults will want to have fun also. Have music and maybe some adult games like horse shoes. Adults love this.

Fun
Once your done, don't forget to have lots of fun. After all this was your party and you should enjoy it. Place beverages in coolers and let everyone know where everything is, so your not stuck being a server at the party.