Across the United States, from the East Coast to the West and beyond, the Fourth of July is celebrated in big cities, small towns and out in the countryside. Whether you are rich or poor, celebrating big or celebrating small, this is a special day. For example, my friends are actually taking a helicopter ride this weekend as it’s something they have always wanted to do and the 4th July is their excuse to do it. They booked online at Jettly and are really looking forward to it. I however am looking forward to a more home-based celebration. Red, white and blue are the colors of the day, while food and fanfare are planned with meticulous care. Many celebrators will include the American flag where possible, whether it’s on cupcakes, t-shirts or even on a monster flagpole. A flagpole is common in most homes, which is great when patriotic Americans want to fly the flag high on independence day. The festive tablescape above is just one example of what’s possible even on a modest budget.
For a large gathering of family and friends, here’s a long table all dressed up in red, white, and blue. Rental chairs are an inexpensive way to accommodate extra guests. We love the jaunty blue and white striped table cloth. For you fellow Americans, you will already know that food and drink are the highlight of this celebration, so we will definitely be spending most of our evening together here. I do like to take the time to say this every time I post about a celebration, but if you are going to consume alcohol this weekend, please be safe with it. There are far too many accidents happening this time of year because people decide to get behind the wheel after having too much to drink, and they end up in an accident. Don’t do it. It will ruin your life, and potentially someone else’s. A friend of mine works at a law firm with many other lawyers who all find that this time of year is busiest with cases and it’s just heartbreaking as it is so preventable. But anyway, this is a happy time and I want you all to have fun, but just be cautious of the people around you!
Polka dots are a great addition to this 4th of July fireplace mantel. A mantel is the perfect spot to unleash your patriotic spirit.
Cupcakes are always appropriate for a 4th of July picnic or backyard celebration. Red and blue berries and coconut top these beauties aligned in a flag pattern.
A tasty way to top off your Fourth of July meal, this red, white and blue trifle is built with angel food cake, whipped cream, strawberries and blueberries.
Lucious strawberries filled with a velvety cream cheese mixture are topped with a with plump blueberries. How enticing are the tiny fresh bites?
Want to keep the look of red, white and blue going all year long? In the South, the ideal spot to decorate with this vibrant color palette is on the front porch. Above is one such red, white and blue sitting area.
Who could resist a guest room dressed up in red, white and blue in an unexpected combination of pattern–stripes, checks and florals?
Red, white and blue curtain tiebacks can add a touch of elegance to a blue and white living room, dining room or bedroom. What a creative year-round use of red, white and blue.
Image Sources: FrontPorchIdeasAndMore.com; TheYesGirls.com; LandeeSeeLandeeDo.com; GoodHousekeeping.com; NatashasKitchen.com; JamieCooksItUp.com; Bedroom.About.com; PlaceInTheHome.com.