10 Tips To Having The Perfect 4th Of July Get Together

As Independence Day approaches, ensure you have everything you need for your plans. Whether it's a casual backyard barbecue, a quiet celebration at home, or a full-on 4th of July Olympic-style game situation, you need to have an assortment of things to be prepared. Here are 10 tips on how to have the perfect 4th of July get-together, no matter how you celebrate.

1. Never Forget The Food

Regardless of the occasion, food is of the utmost importance. While hamburgers and hot dogs are traditional 4th of July foods, there are no rules that say you can't get creative. One thing I do recommend is having a variety of meal types and options. For example, you want some basic appetizers. You could do guacamole and chips, pigs in a blanket, or some delicious deviled eggs. Then you want your main dish. It could be burgers and dogs, steaks on the grill, chili - whatever you're in the mood for. Then you always want to have some sides. Fries, salad, pasta, corn on the cob; the options are limitless. Finally, no event is complete without dessert. Cake, ice cream, pie, fruit salad, whatever you are feeling. Bottom line, ensure you have enough food for all of your guests, take into account how long they will be there, and keep the food continuous.

2. There Have To Be Good Tunes

Every event is made better with some good background music. You want to ensure that you have some good background music for your event. It is essential to know your guests and the vibes. If it's a relaxed barbecue, perhaps some good old-fashioned country music. If you have a more lively event, throw on some pop songs. Perhaps you have friends who enjoy dancing, so line dancing or salsa music may be a suitable fit for your event. Just match the music with your guests and the occasion, and it will all work out.

3. Entertainment Is So Underrated

I say this with absolutely no judgment, but there are so many better things you could be doing than just sitting and drinking beer. Don't get me wrong, I love a good beer! Especially a nice cold one on a warm summer day. However, the most memorable parties or events I have been to offered more than just alcohol. If you want to have the perfect 4th of July day event, then you need to have some sort of game or activity going on. It can be a simple card game or a full-out 4th of July Olympic-style setup.

4. It's All About The Decor

Decorations make everything better! Nothing screams a good time like some solid decor. It doesn't have to be extravagant. Simplicity can do wonders, too! Red, white, and blue tablecloths, napkins, and festive centerpieces can go a long way. If your party is outdoors, balloons or fence decor can also help jazz up the space.

5. Communicate Effectively

Nothing ruins a plan more than a lack of communication. If you want the perfect 4th of July event, you need to communicate effectively with everyone. Make sure everyone knows the start and end times of the party, especially if you want people to leave by a certain time. If you want guests to bring food or drink with them, be sure to communicate that as well. If there are any ground rules you want met, those need to be addressed as well. Nothing kills a party more than expectations that go unmet. Proper communication can help with that.

6. Allow People To Help

As a Type A individual, trust me when I say I know how hard this can be. Especially if you've worked hard on hosting this party and want to appear as though you have it all together. However, accepting help is good! Not only does it help take some of the burden off your shoulders, but it makes your guests feel good too. No one wants to show up empty-handed, and if you don't tell them how they can help or what they can bring, you end up with random items or doubles of things.

7. Don't Forget To Capture The Moment

While I am all for living in the moment, Table and Wine had a great suggestion when they mentioned the option of a photo booth. First, everyone loves a photo booth; they are fun and engaging. However, if that is out of your budget, just make sure you capture the moment with your phone or camera. Don't get so caught up in the photos that you lose sight of what's happening in front of you, but be sure to snag a group photo or two for the memories.

8. Be Organized

This is probably the most important tip to have the perfect 4th of July celebration. This is really applicable to any celebration. Organization is key to a good time, for you and your guests. Have a plan of action. Know what foods you're serving, who you are inviting, what time the party starts, and when it stops. What activities do you want to have? The level of organization is dependent upon the type of gathering and your personality, but trust me when I say it is essential.

9. Don't Let The Party Fizzle Out After Fireworks

Oftentimes, the fireworks are the most anticipated moment of any 4th of July celebration. However, it can be a little awkward once they are over and everyone is sitting around, not knowing what to do next. If you don't want your gathering to have an abrupt ending like that, Particle has a great suggestion. They write, "Post-fireworks is when most people crash — and the mood can deflate fast. Prep for it: set out blankets and chairs for stargazing, offer coffee, mint tea, and sweet treats, or just play some chill music and let conversations wind down naturally."

10. Keep Things Safe

Safety is key to the perfect 4th of July celebration. After all, it isn't much fun if someone gets hurt or in trouble. So make sure you are following food safety rules, not leaving things out too long, etc. Additionally, if you are handling fireworks, ensure you follow all local and state regulations and are safe there as well. You want to have a great holiday that is remembered for love and laughter, not injury.