4th of July is a time to celebrate our Nation’s birthday & independence! It’s a day to gather with friends & family to commemorate our beautiful Country! When you live in Lakewood Ranch, FL, the weather is hot and steamy by the holiday weekend and summer temps are in full swing (we’re talking mid 90’s!), but that’s a perfect excuse to have an outdoor poolside party! We’ve rounded up a few party ideas from decorations to the menu to help complete your party and make it a success!
Stock up on Party Props: For inexpensive decor items for your 4th of July gathering, check out the local dollar store for all the goodies you need. From pinwheels to flags to streamers and table cloths. Keep it on hand in a storage bin for future red, white and blue themed parties!

Photo by Pizzazzerie
Table Setting Decor: Find a blue tablecloth, use white napkins and a for simple & fun way to bring a pop of red to the table – add cherries to a clear tall vase and place throughout the center of the table! Your red, white & blue is done!
Keep Guests Cooled off with a Chilled Beverage: The Watermelon-Mint Cooler – This is a non-alcoholic mocktail, but if you wish, you could spice it up with white rum and club soda. The recipes makes a large pitcher for 8 servings. Double it as you make it, so you have plenty on hand during the party.
Mini Burgers: Need a hearty appetizer for your party? This is a favorite item to make because it’s a classic which everyone loves! Super simple and bite size to compliment the main dish.
Festive Main Course: When I think of 4th of July, I think picnics. With picnics, come burgers (see above), hot dogs, chicken sandwiches with chips, dip and lots of veggies to snack on! Stock up on the meats to grill, add some of your own classic side dishes that you love to make. Ask your guests to share a small side, too, to have a taste of everyone’s favorite dishes!
Party Favors: Dessert! Because usually everyone is too full to divulge on dessert after the main course, give your guests dessert to take home and enjoy later. Apple Berry Pie in a Jar. A unique twist on the classic apple pie. The recipe is in the link.
Popsicles: There’s no better way to keep the kids cool than with patriotic popsicles! Find these at your local grocery store.

Photo by BHG
Water balloons: Need a fun game to keep kids entertained while you enjoy good conversation with your fellow party goers? Filling balloons with water is simple and inexpensive to do and provides lots and lots of fun! Organize a water balloon toss, the last one standing without breaking their balloon wins a prize!
Sparklers: Make your 4th of July bash memorable with the dazzling party sparklers when the sun goes down. Use as party favors and decor on the tables or place in a bucket for guests to grab and use at their leisure!
Fireworks: The main event at any fabulous 4th of July bash! Check back on Hussar Real Estate very soon for a list of the local firework displays in Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton & Sarasota, FL!
Sources include Pizzazzerie.com, Better Homes & Gardens and Real Simple
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