Throwing an Independence Day Garden Party
Here are a some ideas for celebrating 4th of July in the garden:
Plants and decorations
Don’t overdo it with decorations for your outdoor 4th of July party. Keep in mind that less is more in many situations. If you have outdoor patriotic plants already in pots, put them in a grouping. You can also use inexpensive outer pots in red, white and blue for the occasion and add a flag to coordinate with them. Take advantage of stars and stripes themed plates, napkins, or tablecloths (not all together though). Use a stars and stripes tablecloth with red plates and blue napkins, for instance.
Food
The All-American hotdog is perfect for your primary meal, along with cheeseburgers, especially if the guests include hungry kids. If there’s an expert on the grill available to cook them, T-bone or ribeye steaks are a great choice for an adult evening meal. Salads, coleslaw, and potato salad are easy make ahead sides. Consider deviled eggs for a change of pace. And don’t forget to add anything you have fresh picked from the garden whenever possible. Blueberries, strawberries, and white cake squares on a skewer offer a color themed and tasty dessert. Include a honey-based dipping sauce for the fruit. Consider a three-layer cake with red, white, and blue layers and a white, easy-to-decorate frosting. Some suggest sparklers as cake decorations. Berry flavored juices in clear bottles may also provide red and blue beverages. If you’re not planning a full meal or you’re having a few people in and out during the day, you can stick with appetizers and a couple of desserts.
Games
Your Independence Day garden party is more fun with a few organized games for both kids and adults. Set up a badminton net, or if you have a tennis court, use it. Take advantage of the pool, also, but have a few other activities available as well so everyone can enjoy and take part.
Invitations
If there are children, try a DIY invite with your kids. Numerous ideas for creative invitations are available online. If guests are mainly adults, stick with pre-printed invites. Remember to add flags throughout the landscape in visible spots to remind everyone to display their patriotism. Have a wonderful garden Independence Day party. Be sure to abide by all safety rules in your neighborhood, city and state with regard to barbeques, fire pits and fireworks. Have a safe and happy holiday.
