The major Fourth of July fireworks displays and special events around Tampa may be canceled this year, but there are plenty of ways that seniors can create a festive Independence Day celebration at home.
Turn Your House Red, White, and Blue
With a little hot glue, a quick trip to the craft store, and a bit of imagination, you can transform your home into a patriotic masterpiece! The internet is a source of endless ideas for July Fourth crafts. And thanks to YouTube, even the noncrafty among us can get into the spirit with video tutorials for easy Fourth of July decorations.
There’s no need to blow your budget, either. Your local dollar store is an excellent (and cheap) source of craft raw materials to bring your Independence Day ideas to life. From pool noodle “fireworks” to a dozen ideas for door hangers, these DIY dollar store Fourth of July decorations are a blast.
Bring the Celebration Inside
Though we are skipping the traditional outdoor fireworks displays this year, we can still enjoy a virtual Independence Day celebration at home (minus the traffic and with better bathrooms).
The Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) is airing its annual star-spangled concert event starting at 8 p.m. on July 4.
This patriotic extravaganza always includes performances from world-class musicians. Featured artists from past celebrations include musical superstars like Frankie Valli, Patti LaBelle, John Williams, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Reba McEntire, Carole King, Neil Diamond, Dolly Parton, and Tony Bennett to name a few. This year marks the 40th anniversary of A Capitol Fourth, so the lineup is sure to be impressive.
Check out the A Capitol Fourth webpage for more details about the event as well as to watch a fireworks display over Washington, DC, test your knowledge of American history, and enjoy highlights from the 2019 A Capitol Fourth event.
Celebrate Our Freedom
Independence Day is a time for fun and family, but it’s also a great opportunity to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy thanks to the men and women who fight and have fought to maintain it.
Take some time out of your day to thank a veteran or active service member. If you are a veteran, please share your stories and significant experiences with a friend or loved one. It’s so important to preserve these memories for future generations so we never forget the bravery and sacrifice that built America.
Fire Up Some July 4 Favorites
The community cookouts may be canceled this year, but that’s no reason not to bring the party to your patio. It’s not really Fourth of July without a plate full of hamburgers, hot dogs, and all your favorite sides.
Though you can’t go wrong with classic-style hamburgers and hot dogs, if you’re up for something a bit more adventurous, we’ve got some Independence Day inspiration for your grill. This slideshow from the Food Network provides 10 nontraditional hamburger recipes that will make your mouth water. But if you’re more of a hot dog person, go all in on the Americana and try one of these regional hot dog favorites from across the USA.
Don’t forget dessert! This classic berry flag cake is always a hit on the Fourth of July. But if you're looking for something fun and a bit more out of the ordinary, this adorable sherbet watermelon will be the talk of the table.
This year, Tampa’s fireworks may be canceled, but having fun isn’t! We may not be able to enjoy Fourth of July surrounded by friends and family, but with a little creativity, seniors can celebrate safely and have an amazing day filled with the July Fourth food and festivities we all love.
