Celebrating Independence Day at Home
The Fourth of July may a bit different this year while we continue to flatten the curve. However, here are some fun ways you can still enjoy Independence Day 2022!
Independence Day has been an American tradition since 1776 and a federal holiday since 1941. This year, it’s more important than ever to express our patriotic pride in a thoughtful and safe way! No matter what this summer looks like, there are many ways you can still celebrate the holiday. Be sure to share your activity ideas for Independence Day 2022 on your favorite family app!
What Is the History of Independence Day?
For many people, July 4 represents a patriotic celebration of the United States and its history. In fact, this federal holiday dates back to 1941 when it became an official holiday in the US. However, it’s been celebrated in the United States since 1776.
On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of the colonies’ independence. Two days later, on the fourth of July, the delegates from the thirteen colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, primarily written by Thomas Jefferson. Ever since then, July 4th was celebrated as the anniversary of the colonies officially declared freedom from the authority of Britain’s monarchy.
How Should We Celebrate Independence Day 2022?
While celebrating our country’s historical independence, we’re reminded that we can still recognize our shared values, even if we can’t all be together. Share your own ideas for welcoming July 4 with your family and friends on FamilyApp!
1. Plan a Backyard Barbecue
Enjoy the day at home with the ones you love with some great food! Fire up the barbecue and put together your Fourth of July holiday favorites. Decked out in red, white, and blue, a specialty cocktail or mocktail in hand, and a few festive decorations, it can still feel like a patriotic holiday for the books!
2. Play a Ball Game
Although we’ll miss watching those live sporting events, you can still head to the park with your kids for a little bit of exercise. Baseball is one of the most popular Independence Day activities, so why not have your own game? If you’re not baseball fans, find another sport that fits your family’s interest, whether that’s football, volleyball, soccer, or any game that gets the whole family moving! Also, be sure to check out the information provided by the Center of Disease Control before you head to the ballpark.
3. Take a Hike
Head to a nearby trail for some precious time in nature. You can even take along a book to teach your kid’s about local trees and vegetation! Try having a scavenger hunt to see who can find all different kinds of wildlife like birds, squirrels, trees, bugs, pinecones, flowers! Make it easier or harder depending on the ages of the participants. Spending time together in the fresh air outdoors is a great way to bond with those you love.
4. Have a History-Themed Game Night
Learn all about America with a fun trivia game and test your family’s knowledge of American history with a healthy dose of competition! You may need to adjust the questions based on everyone’s age, but it can still be a fun way for everyone to flex their knowledge and learn something new! You could even look up some crazy, funny, or silly facts about the U.S. to include in the game to make it a bit more lively and entertaining!
5. Prep a Picnic for Independence Day 2022
For many families, a day at the beach is a July 4 tradition. Fortunately, you may not have to forego it this year! While you’ll want to keep your distance, take some sunscreen and your favorite lunch items for a beachside picnic. Share your picnic basket staples on your favorite family app!
6. Have a “Family Olympics”
With no Summer Olympics this year, why not bring the Olympics to your house? What’s cooler than athletes representing our country performing incredible feats?! And you can, too! Beat the heat with “water sports” like a water balloon “step back” competition or a sponge toss! Or, you could have a slip n’ slide and measure who goes the furthest. Be sure to make some medals or trophies for the winners (gold, silver, and bronze, of course).
7. Watch Some Movies
A fun movie night in with popcorn and treats may be just the thing your family needs! Some classic July 4th favorites include Independence Day, The American President, The Sandlot, and The Music Man! Snuggle up together on the couch or even set up a projector for an outdoor theater experience!
Celebrating Independence Day 2022
There’s no doubt the world has changed a little since we last celebrated the Fourth of July. While it remains important to social distance, that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. It just means you may want to keep it a little simpler this July 4. Do you have any at-home ideas for Independence Day 2022? Share them with other readers in our comments!
