Hey there, fellow parents and party planners. 🎆
The 4th of July is right around the corner, and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably looking for fun and creative ways to keep the little ones entertained while still soaking in all the red, white, and blue festivities.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, heading to a family picnic, or just hanging out at home, we’ve got you covered with a list of 4th of July activities for kids that are guaranteed to spark joy (and maybe a little glitter too).
Also Check: Kids Outfits For Daughters
Let’s dive into the fun!
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1. Patriotic Craft Time
Kids love to get creative, and what better way to celebrate America’s birthday than with some hands-on crafts? Try these easy ideas:
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Flag Windsocks – All you need is red, white, and blue construction paper, streamers, and a little imagination.
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Handprint Flags – Paint those tiny hands and make adorable flag art keepsakes.
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Firework Salt Paintings – Mix glue and salt, then let kids drop colored water on it to create sparkling “fireworks” on paper!
These crafts are perfect for all ages and double as decorations for your party setup.
Suggested Amazon Products:
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4th of July Kids Craft Kit – Includes everything needed for stars, flags, and more.
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Washable Paint Set for Kids – Safe and easy to clean.
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Construction Paper Pack (Red, White & Blue) – Great for themed crafts.
2. 4th of July Scavenger Hunt
Turn your backyard or living room into an adventure with a patriotic-themed scavenger hunt. Create a list of items for kids to find, like:
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A mini American flag
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Something red, white, or blue
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A star-shaped item
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A balloon or sparkler (for older kids)
You can even turn it into a team game with small prizes at the end—think bubbles, stickers, or festive sunglasses!
Suggested Amazon Products:
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Printable Patriotic Scavenger Hunt Cards – Ready-to-use themed cards.
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Mini American Flags Pack – Perfect as scavenger hunt items or decor.
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4th of July Prize Pack for Kids – Includes small prizes like stickers, bracelets, and temporary tattoos.
3. Water Balloon Toss
It’s July. It’s hot. And the kids have energy to burn. Say hello to the good old water balloon toss.
Pair up the kids and have them toss water balloons back and forth, taking a step back after each throw. Last dry team wins!
Tip: Want to make it even more fun? Use red and blue balloons and call it a “patriotic splash battle.”
Suggested Amazon Products:
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Self-Sealing Water Balloons (Bunch O Balloons) – Saves time and mess.
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Red & Blue Water Balloons – Stay on theme!
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Splash Pad or Sprinkler Mat for Kids – Extend the water fun.
4. DIY Parade
Who says you need to wait for the town parade? Create your own kid-sized version at home!
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Decorate bikes, scooters, and wagons with streamers and flags.
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Let kids dress up in red, white, and blue outfits.
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Put on some festive music and let them march or ride around the neighborhood or backyard.
It’s adorable, active, and makes for amazing photos.
Suggested Amazon Products:
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4th of July Bike Decoration Kit – Streamers, flags, and pinwheels.
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Kids’ Patriotic Outfits or T-Shirts – Festive clothing for parade day.
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Bluetooth Speaker (Portable & Waterproof) – For your backyard parade playlist.
5. Festive Snacks & Mini Chefs
Let the kids help in the kitchen by whipping up some fun 4th of July treats:
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Flag Fruit Skewers – Strawberries, bananas, and blueberries lined up like a mini flag.
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Star-Shaped Sandwiches – Use cookie cutters for festive fun.
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Red, White & Blue Popsicles – Layered juices frozen in molds make a refreshing snack they’ll be proud to say they made.
Don’t forget to lay out a picnic blanket and turn snack time into a mini celebration.
Suggested Amazon Products:
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Star-Shaped Cookie Cutters – For sandwiches or cookies.
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Silicone Popsicle Molds – Make red, white & blue frozen treats.
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Kid-Safe Kitchen Utensil Set – Let the mini chefs help safely.
6. Story Time & History Fun
For a little quiet time (and a sprinkle of education), gather the kids for a special story session. Read books like:
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The Night Before the Fourth of July by Natasha Wing
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Apple Pie 4th of July by Janet S. Wong
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Fourth of July Mice! by Bethany Roberts
You can even follow up with a short and fun chat about the meaning of Independence Day. Kids love hearing how it all began!
Suggested Amazon Books:
7. Glow Stick Dance Party
Once the sun sets and you’re waiting for fireworks, turn up the music and pass out glow sticks for an evening dance party.
Kids can wave them around, wear them as necklaces, or even play glow-in-the-dark ring toss.
It’s a magical way to end the day and keep the excitement going before the big fireworks show.
Read More: Picnic food ideas for kids
Final Thoughts
The 4th of July is about more than just fireworks—it’s about making memories, celebrating freedom, and enjoying time with family.
With these fun and simple 4th of July activities for kids, you’re all set to create a day full of laughter, learning, and festive joy.
Also Check: Toddler Boy Outfits
So grab those flags, fill up the water balloons, and let the red, white, and blue fun begin. Happy Independence Day! 🎇🇺🇸
