Beyond Fireworks: 12 Ways to Celebrate the 4th with Kids

By Katie Kavulla June 2, 2013

To little ones, celebrating the 4th of July usually means one thing – fireworks! But, we know that by the time the sun goes down and the fireworks go up around 10:00 pm, they are exhausted and ready for bed. Here are 12 July 4th activities for your kids that don’t involve having cranky, overtired children on the 5th of July!

Have an “Indoor Independence Day”

While July 4th is traditionally an "outdoor" holiday, maybe celebrating outdoors isn't an option where you live, so why not bring the party inside? Try renting a projector and host your own film festival with some Hollywood classics, home movies, or have a Wii competition. You can even make your own indoor fireworks that still have the "pop" without the smoke and flames to liven the festivities. Or, save yourself some cleanup and just give the kiddos glow sticks in lieu of sparklers and ground poppers.

Don’t forget to visit your local Red Tricycle Events Calendar to see what 4th of July activities are going on in your city!

Tell us – Does your family or neighborhood have any fun 4th of July traditions that are great for the smallest patriots?

photos courtesy of: Lucidtech, Guy Schmidt, Amazon, JoJo’s Num Nums, Amazon, Anjanettew, Kids Creative Arts, Constellation Energy, Tony Alter, John_Brennan