Whether you’re hosting a patriotic pool party or grilling in the backyard with friends, why not show off your American spirit with a splash of red, white and blue. The more festive the get together is, the better, so why not carry out the patriotic theme with festive decor and food which will make this holiday that much more of a special celebration.

Festive Flair

Red, White and Blue Glow Jewelry: How fun are these for a party! These glow sticks are absolutely perfect for the July 4th holiday. They’re designed to be portable and flexible and they are also non-toxic. These super bright glow sticks last up to 12 hours before they start to fade.

Patriotic Party Hats:  These party hats/headbands are for both adults and kids. The set comes in three different styles: the American flag, the red star and the silver star with a red, white and blue fireworks spray. Party ready for sure!

Red & White Linen Shirt: A red and white striped linen shirt from Frank & Eileen that I’m wearing in the above photo is so perfect for this patriotic holiday! This exaggerated oversized fit shirt has a front pocket, and the longer length in the back provides a flattering fit. Because of the linen fabric, this shirt looks better wrinkled and relaxed, so there’s no need to iron it.

Canvas Tote Bag: This durable lightweight tote bag is so perfect for summer.  The red and white stripe makes it festive for July 4th, but it can also be used throughout the year. It’s so perfect to take along to the beach or to a party by the pool. It is available on Amazon, so you can get it before the 4th.

Festive Food

Berry Ice Cubes

Add a festive July 4th twist to your favorite summer beverages with these ‘berry’ easy ice cubes. It’s the perfect cool down in this summer heat and adds that little touch of red, white and blue. Throughout the year you can use your creativity to make all different variations of these ice cubes.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup blueberries

• ½ cup strawberries, thinly sliced

Method:

• Add water to Ice Cube Trays with 1 - 2 berries in each well.

• Place into the freezer until fully frozen, at least 4 hours.

Refreshing Watermelon Salad

Have you ever had a watermelon salad in the summer time? It’s so refreshing! Cilantro is in this recipe, but if cilantro is not your thing, feel free to substitute basil. It will taste just as delicious and makes such a pretty presentation for the 4th!

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons lime juice

• 1 cup sliced red onion, cut lengthwise

• 15 cups cubed watermelon

• 3 cups cubed English cucumber

• 1 (8 ounce) package feta cheese, crumbled

• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro

• 1 pinch cracked black pepper

• 1 pinch sea salt

Method:

• In a small bowl, pour lime juice over red onions.

• Allow to marinate while assembling the salad

• Gently combine the watermelon, cucumber, feta cheese, and cilantro in a large bowl.

• Season with black pepper.

• Toss watermelon salad with marinated onions and season with sea salt just before serving.

Flag Cake

What better way to end your Fourth Of July celebration than with a red, white and blue flag cake. Rest assured, this recipe from the Barefoot Contessa is a winner! All of your guests will love this ending to a perfect party.

Check out the Barefoot Contessa’s website for all of the ingredients and instructions on how to build this gorgeous, festive cake this Fourth of July!

I hope that you all have a fabulous (and safe) Fourth of July this year! If you have any fun red, white and blue accessories or recipes that you love, please post them in the comments below! I always love sharing and learning with all of you.

xx

Barbara