3 Ways to Enjoy the 4th of July Outdoors—No Travel Required

The 4th of July is typically a holiday that people like to travel and get outdoors—whether that’s heading to the coast to enjoy some beachside fireworks or celebrating America’s birthday in one of the National Parks.

But this year, things still aren’t quite back to “typical”—and many people aren’t able to, or aren’t comfortable with, traveling. But just because hopping on a plane or exploring a distant locale may not be on the agenda for 2021 doesn’t mean you can’t get out and celebrate the holiday!

Let’s take a look at three ways to enjoy the 4th of July outdoors—with zero travel required.

Bring the beach to your backyard

As mentioned, many people typically head to the beach for the 4th of July. But if you can’t head to the beach, why not bring the beach to you?

Bringing beachy activities into your backyard is a great way to get outside and get active this 4th of July—and the only travel required is from your back door to your yard.

For example, do you love playing beach volleyball? Set up a net in your backyard and invite a few friends over for a tournament. Do you spend all your beach time splashing in the waves? Set up a kiddie pool in your backyard and have some fun “swimming” (and staying cool in the July heat!). Missing beachside drinks in your favorite tropical locale? Set up your beach chair, bust out your blender, and enjoy some frozen cocktails in the comfort of your own backyard.

No backyard? No problem! All of these “backyard beach” activities will work equally well in a local park or outdoor space.

Host a patriotic picnic potluck

Picnics/BBQs are other outdoor activities that are synonymous with the 4th of July; it’s a great way to come together with friends and family to enjoy the holiday (and some delicious eats!).

Now, hosting a BBQ or picnic is a great way to enjoy the 4th of July outdoors without having to travel. But if you want to up the fun factor, why not get all your guests involved and host a patriotic potluck?

Challenge your guests to come up with a (healthy!) American-themed dish; then, have everyone bring their dish to the picnic or BBQ to share and enjoy with the group. Let your friends and family know that creativity is welcomed; for example, they can bring a traditional American dish, like mashed potatoes—or they can build their dish around the colors of the flag (like a berry-topped parfait or a salad with blueberries, strawberries, and goat cheese). 

Be a tourist in your own community

Part of the fun of traveling on the 4th of July, or in general, is getting to be a tourist. When you’re traveling, you see everything with a new pair of eyes; you typically feel more adventurous, more exploratory, and more open to new experiences.

On the other hand, when you’re at home—and are used to your surroundings—chances are, habit and ritual tend to take precedence over exploring or adventure. 

But if you can’t travel for the 4th, why not tap into that adventurous, exploratory spirit—and try being a tourist in your own community?

Imagine you were visiting your town or city for the first time, and research things to do on your trip. Chances are, there are plenty of fun activities within a few miles of your home that you’ve never experienced. 

For example, want to explore a new neighborhood or area of your city? Sign up for a walking tour. Want to have a new nature experience? Research nearby hikes—and celebrate the 4th of July by hitting a new trail. Looking to kick off your holiday weekend with some challenging physical activity? See if your city is hosting any 4th of July fitness events (like a 5k or 10k).

The point is, you don’t have to travel to be a tourist—and if travel isn’t on your agenda this year, experiencing your hometown like a tourist can be a fun way to spend the 4th of July.