On July 4th, patriotic Americans commemorate the formal adoption of their Declaration of Independence.
There are parades and pageants, patriotic speeches, flag waving, family picnics, and firework displays . . . a lot of good old fashioned all-American Fourth of July fun. It’s a happy day . . . a celebration of freedom and all the things we hold dear here in the United States.
If you’re planning a picnic or party to celebrate the holiday, here are a few simple ways to add patriotic color to your traditional festivities.
Showing your patriotic spirit
A round patriotic door medallion offers a fresh spin on a traditional wreath and welcomes guests. (Photo: Martha Stewart) . . , or add the American flag to a hanging basket of white hydrangeas, wildflowers, ivy, and ferns. So simple.
I’m all for keeping things simple. If you barbecue out, but eat in—as we sometimes do—dress your dining table for the holiday.
Simple red place mats and napkins in traditional navy are paired with white china and stemware. A lone flag graces the white hydrangea centerpiece. The starfish at each place setting add a touch of whimsy. Easy-to-do . . . understated . . . and elegant.
Silverware and napkins, in a patriotic navy fabric, are tied with red-and-white striped ribbon. Using a pewter plate charger gives the setting a subtle circa 1776 feel and is a nice touch. Paisley bandanas, sewn together, make a perfect tablecloth. (Photo: HWTM)
This buffet setting uses bandanas as napkins and places them in mason jars with the silverware.
(Photo: I {Heart} Nap Time)
For easy clean-up, mix and match assorted patterns of paper plates, cups, and napkins to create a patriotic table setting. (Photo: Better Homes and Gardens)
Make demin place mats from an old pair of jeans—then, sew some red checked ribbon around the hem of a plain white napkin, tuck the napkin and silverware inside the place mat pocket, and voilá . . . perfection! (Photo: Dollar Store Crafts)
Star-print ribbon is threaded through stamped tags and tied around striped no-sew napkins. (Photo: Better Homes and Gardens)
Snap bracelets, with an American flag or star pattern, are a perfect wrap for napkins and something your guests can wear during the party. (Photo: Better Homes and Gardens)
For saucy barbecues, use inexpensive white dish towels as oversized napkins, rolled and tied with checkered shoelaces for a pop of color. (Photo: Better Homes and Gardens)
Fill an open chest or basket with decorative green wheatgrass, baseballs, and red and blue croquet balls. Top it off with a few tiny flags for an all-American centerpiece. (Photo: Better Homes and Gardens)
Patriotic fans beat the heat, decorate the table, and make great party favors. (Photos: Country Living and Martha Stewart) . . . while bands of red, white, and blue sand dress up votive candles for flickering lights that are cheerful and fun. (Photo: Martha Stewart)
Juicy watermelon is always a summer favorite. Gives yours a special holiday twist by carving the date and using as porch decoration or as a centerpiece for the snack table. (Photo: Better Homes and Gardens)
Flags are anchored in red, white, and blue gum balls.
Adding some jazzed-up red, white, and blue rice gives candles just the right patriotic touch.
A casual holiday picnic table features a simple table runner . . . mason jars filled with rock salt and flags . . . baskets of blueberries, cherries, and strawberries . . . and a red, white, and blueberry cake. (Photo: Jenny Steffens)
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