As a nation, we no longer live in a vacuum and as such, national holidays and celebrations from other countries and cultures become part of our calendar of events too.
What is Independence Day?
Not to be confused with a film of the same name, Independence Day – also referred to as the Fourth of July – is no exception. It is a federal holiday Stateside (the American equivalent of a public or bank holiday here in the UK) and is the day that Americans celebrate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776.
The thirteen American colonies were forming a new nation, the United States of America, and were no longer part of the British Empire.
Associated with parades, fireworks, carnivals, picnics and BBQs, it is the perfect excuse to team up with family and friends, and celebrate American Independence Day with a huge garden party.
Hosting an All-American Party
Americans celebrate Independence Day in style – the bigger, the better! So, if you have plans to host a garden party, you need to go large.
- Get the Garden Party-Ready
Firstly, before you start ordering bunting, you need to make sure your garden is in order.
This means a quick tidy up along with pruning shrubs into shape and, most importantly, making sure you have enough outdoor rattan furniture and/or patio chairs for people to relax and enjoy the celebrations.
A quality outdoor table and outdoor chairs are a great investment. As well as hardwood products, consider metal garden furniture – colourful and long-lasting – along with rattan chairs and so on are all great additions.
For something different, but equally as hard wearing, opt for reclaimed garden furniture.
The style is important too. As well as outdoor dining sets, consider the more informal approach of an outdoor sofa. A rattan sofa set is ideal for a busy garden and not just Independence Day celebrations!
- Dress Up the Garden!
With seating in place, you can begin to set the tone for your celebration garden party. Here are a few ideas;
- Bunting and Flags – red, white and blue, stars and stripes are all a must. Because Americans do everything bigger, don’t scrimp on the flags and bunting.
- All-American dishes – Americans love their food and we have welcomed some of their dishes into our culture too. Enjoy American hot dogs with lashing of mustard. Burgers are great on the BBQ too, along with chicken wings and legs. Don’t forget muffins, savoury and sweet, for sweet treats after the fries and burgers.
- Glow sticks instead of fireworks – the lighter nights and the close proximity of your neighbours mean that fireworks can be a bit of a faux pas. Substitute for glow sticks and plenty of solar panelled garden lights
- ‘Party Favours’ – as you bid your guests farewell, a party bag with cake and a few small gifts are ideal, especially for the children (and big kids!).
There is an amazing range of party retailers online who have everything you need for an American Independence Day garden party. All you need now is sunshine…
