How to celebrate July 4th in an economic downturn

Assign several members of your family to dig up a historical story or two they might share on the 4th of July about why we celebrate. Provide resoures such as the internet or library, newpapers, and magazines to search for interesting stories.

Plan a picnic at home and save on the gas to get somewhere. Make it a family decision and pow wow as to what you will eat. Assign one or two family members to make a dessert. Get creative and delegate. It’s way more fun for you if the stress of having to do it all is relieved.

Invite some friends over or better yet, your neighbors or people you don’t know as well. Use the holiday to get to know someone while relaxing. Ask them to bring a dish, lawn chair and their own place setting. This will allow you to not stress over details. Most people will be glad to feel a part of your invitation by bringing something to help out.

Purchase your own fireworks. This does not have to be expensive. A few sparklers and little items that go boom in the night will do. Ask people who will be attending to bring them if they have any. This may not be as large as a city firework display but the hands on might be more exciting for children and adults alike. Play some patriotic music. A selection could be found a your local library.