Throwing a Star Spangled Holiday Party!

From decorations to games, this 4th of July can be a hit.

The first step to planning any holiday party is to make a guest list and choose the invitations. Homemade invitations are inexpensive, fun and easy to assemble. By simply storing up those summer popsicle sticks, you can make flag invitations that will spark your neighbors' interest. Using craft sticks, acrylic paint, permanent marker and star stickers you can assemble beautifully creative invitations. This is also a family fun craft that the kids will enjoy.

By painting or coloring two craft sticks white, 2 red 2 half blue and half red, and 2 half blue and half white you will suddenly have a flag. Once the paint or marker has dried, write out the invitations. The top line may read "4th of July Celebration" and each stick should have a detail of the party. Where, when, time and an RSVP number should all be included on a separate stick.

Next, bundle the craft sticks together and tie with a ribbon. When guests receive the bundle they will be able to quickly assemble the puzzle pieces into the invitation. You may also choose to attach the sticks to a string in order so that it simiply unravels into a beautifully creative invitation!

The next step in party planning is deciding on games and food. You may opt for a summer potluck. If so, be sure to include that on the invitation!

Something to consider including in the party is a parade of flags. It may seem silly at first, but having dozens of helium filled festive colored balloons at the party for the kids to march with and release is a patriotic and fun way to celebrate the day. Marching through the neighborhood to the Star Spangled Banner or another Patriotic song gives kids a chance to take pride in their country and there is nothing like watching the release of dozens of helium filled balloons.

Children will remember this event and the importance of the day may begin to soak in. A balloon release is also a subtle way of paying tribute and is a great time for adults to teach children a little bit about American history and why it is that we celebrate the 4^th of July in the first place.

Other 4^th of July party activities may include relays, races and neighborhood contests. Some towns choose to celebrate using everything from frog races to tractor pulls. It is important to know in advance what activities you want to have at your party and who will be in charge of organizing them. It is also a great idea to get other adults involved in the planning.

Water balloon tosses are also a great activity for a hot summer day and can easily be included in 4^th of July Celebrations. Simply be sure to get the balloons ready a few hours in advance. It is also important to have prizes for the winners such as a flag hat or patriotic banner. Of course, a two liter of soda or a package of cookies always makes a great prize for such an occasion.

Another way to make the neighborhood get together more fun for the kids is to have a craft ready for them to do. Kids love to make their own projects, especially projects they can show off! Making a 4^th of July patriotic hat is one way for kids to stay busy and have fun creating their own patriotic project.

Having a few trusty supplies on hand, such as construction paper, scissors, glue sticks, star stickers, ribbon, colorful streamers and of course some samples are all kids should really need. They will also of course need instruction, supervision and assistance from older children.

For more craft ideas and family get together ideas for the 4^th of July, try visiting the FamilyFun website which includes lots of decoration and food ideas for the holiday.