Tips on Planning A No Fuss 4th
As you get to know me you will find I have a great affinity for holidays. I love getting together with friends and family and celebrating by cooking out. I love seeing everyone enjoying a meal together whether it’s on grandmas fine china or festive holiday paper plates. It’s hearing laughter and watching kids run though the sprinklers.... That’s what warms my soul. But the thought of hosting a holiday get together may not excite you like it does me. For some “all the details” can seem overwhelming. What food do I serve? What will the kids eat? Who will come?
All these questions and more probably start flooding your mind.
I have good news! It doesn’t have to be that way! I’m going to give you some great tips on how to plan a no fuss 4th of July gathering that won’t leave you exhausted and swearing “never again.”
First, have a plan. It takes so much guess work out later if you plan ahead. A helpful tip is to use the 4 W’s.
Who
What
When
Where
Who are you inviting? Keep it intimate if large crowds aren’t your thing right now. Remember it’s not how many people you invite it’s who. Send out a text or a fun Facebook event invitation. It’s easy for everyone to communicate plus it’s 2020 and we all love the convenience of technology.
What to serve? Potluck is my favorite for a big group gathering. It takes tons of pressure of the hostess. If my event is last minute potluck is my go to. This is also where a Facebook Invite comes in handy because everyone can post what they are bringing and others can see and plan around it. People also love to contribute to a gathering. If you have a friend who doesn’t cook but wants to contribute, have them bring the paper products. It makes them feel present when they can bring something. One of the reasons I love the 4th of July is because the food tends to be easier and traditional. Hot dogs, hamburgers or something from the smoker is always acceptable. We can’t forget dessert. Who doesn’t love a red white and blue cupcake or the traditional apple pie with homemade vanilla ice cream. Is your mouth watering yet
When is the event? Evenings tend to work for most people because it gives people time to get off work and get ready before coming. If everyone is bringing food it also gives them time to cook and prepare. If children will be a part of the gathering I tend to make it a little earlier in the evening so they can enjoy before get to tired. If fireworks are a planned part of your festivities it allows everyone to eat before the show!
Where is the event? If your 4th of July celebration is at your home set up tables on the porch or the lawn. It’s the one holiday everyone expects to be outside enjoying a game of corn hole or horseshoes. If shade is an issue check the group for who has a canopy tent! It also keeps the pressure off to have a spotless home inside when everyone is outside;)
Prep Food
Food prep such as cutting up the hamburger toppings can be done the night before the party. This is something that can take a few minutes and if you try and do it while the party is active you miss out on the festivities. It’s a small detail you will be glad you did already.
Decorations
Here is the great thing about the 4th of July, we all have red, white and blue items in our homes. Round those items up and use them in your party decorations. Have a red vase? Pick some white flowers up at the market when you grocery shop for the party. That blue bowl of your grandmas looks great with chips in it. Bring out those American flags and proudly display them on your table. Your festive desserts also count as part of your decorations right?
Don’t forget the citronella candles for ambiance and keeping the bugs at bay but most importantly enjoy each other’s company. Remember why we celebrate Independence Day and the rest will naturally fall into place.
I can’t wait to share my party pics with you. Let me know what your favorite Independence Day traditions are!
Happy 4th and Cheers,