Easy 4th of July Party Decorating Ideas for Busy Hostesses

Katie Jacobs and Mary Huddleston 4th of July Party Cookout
Photo: Evin Photography

We'll say it: 4th of July parties in the South are just better. Between the food and the festivities, there isn't a better group of people to spend the 4th of July with than Southerners. Plus, who can resist an excuse to eat classic cookout food and spend time with friends? We'll never turn down an offer for a good time celebrating what we love about our country. If you're planning on hosting a 4th of July party, we've rounded up a few of our favorite 4th of July party decorating ideas so that your party is one to remember. From floral centerpieces to easy DIY decor, these 4th of July party decorating ideas are sure to impress your guests and encourage them to come back for all of your holiday affairs. A poolside bash is sure to keep kids and adults occupied until the fireworks start in the evening. Or stock your backyard with yard games that everyone will enjoy, and when the evening cools off, you can light your fire pit for late night s'mores. However you plan to celebrate the 4th of July this year, these decorating ideas are high on festivity but low on cost and planning.

01 of 08

Decorate with Fresh Elements

4th of July table setting with strawberries, red and white flowers, and blue paper placemats
Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller

Because red can be a difficult color to incorporate in decorations, Kelly Revels and Bryce Vann Brock decorated their Fourth of July table with a basket of fresh strawberries at each place setting. Guests can take the fruit home as a fresh party favor along with the hand drawn cocktail recipe card.

02 of 08

Make a 4th-Themed Charcuterie Board

July 4th Charcuterie Board
Joy Howard

While the hot dogs and burgers are on the grill, offer your guests a July 4th-themed charcuterie board to fight off the munchies. They won't be able to resist the spread of mini cherry pies, sprinkle cookies, and fresh berries.

03 of 08

Make Flag-Inspired Donut Wands

Red, White & Blue Donut Wands
Southern Living

If you're looking for an easy activity for the little ones to enjoy, set up a dessert station for them to make their own red, white, and blue donut wands. All you need is powdered donut holes, sprinkles, white chocolate, and plastic straws.

04 of 08

Keep Decor Simple

Katie Jacobs and Mary Huddleston 4th of July Party Cookout
Evin Photography

Miniature American flags make for a festive addition to any floral centerpiece. Blue Mason jars filled with fluffy hydrangea bundles accomplish a sophisticate, yet inexpensive centerpiece with a gingham table runner. Mix and match festive plastic plates with linen napkins to finish off the look.

05 of 08

Bundle Up

Patriotic Table Setting
Photo: Laurey W. Glenn

Instead of setting a formal table spread, place everything that your guests may need in a festive bucket so they can easily carry their party supplies with them around the backyard. Star-shaped sparklers make for a fun activity for kids and adults once the sun sets.

06 of 08

Stock the Bar (Cart)

4th of July Outdoor Party Bar Cart
Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller

Whether your guests are looking to top off their drink, or grab another sparkler before the firework festivities begin, be sure to keep your outdoor bar cart stocked with all the right essentials. Fresh garnishes like rosemary, basil, and mint add interest to the typical display of glassware and a punch bowl.

07 of 08

Refresh with a Pool-Side Popsicle Station

4th of July Party Popsicle display in giant shell dish
Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller

Not all coolers are quite the aesthetic that a Southern hostess hopes to show off during a party. You can use any sturdy bowl or (clean) stone planter as a pretty popsicle display for kids to enjoy while playing in the pool. Be sure to prepare it right as guests are arriving to avoid a sticky, melted mess.

08 of 08

Save Room for the Kiddos

Katie Jacobs and Mary Huddleston 4th of July Party Kids Area
Evin Photography

Dedicate a space for the kids to grab their own snacks and drinks between jumping contests in the pool. You can even include activities like bubble wands and jump ropes for them to play with.

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