Red, white and blue is the first thing that comes to mind when the Fourth of July (Independence Day) is mentioned. This day signifies a very important time in our country's history. Barbecues, fireworks, and baseball are a necessity during the Fourth of July. Those are just a few activities to be expected on this festive holiday. However there are many ways to stand above and beyond just a basic Fourth of July party.

The Fourth of July is a time when kids, neighbors and friends come to celebrate and enjoy the beautiful summer weather. Fourth of July parties typically take place in backyards, poolside, or at parks. The key to a great holiday is relaxing and have fun in the sun regardless where you choose to have your soirée.

One way to enhance the fun would be to make your party a theme party.

Some theme party ideas will be:

• Snap, Crackle, Pop Fourth of July party - This would be a great theme for both children and adults. This party is geared around the fireworks. Start the mood off right with invitations that make popping noise when opened. When the children arrive hand out tubes of bubbles for a safe way to enhance the mood of the day. Give the children safe fireworks that are non-fire based or have them make Alka-Seltzer bottle rockets. Then finish the evening off with a huge fireworks display the whole family can enjoy.
• Fourth of July Picnic - This party will be geared around the food. Hotdogs, burgers, and corn on the cob. Keep it simple! Have the kids decorate their bikes with streamers and balloons and have them put on bike parade. Also, have an egg or water balloon toss and have patriotic prizes for first place winners. A way to keep an outdoor picnic simple is have all disposable table cloths, plates, napkins, and silverware so when its time to clean up just scoop everything in the garbage.
• Fourth of July Pool Party - This party will have similar ideas to the Fourth of July picnic. Keep it simple. Plan a nice barbecue with disposable party supplies. A couple ways to keep the children entertained is host swimming races in the pool or set up a volleyball tournament. Then finish the evening up with a fireworks display for all to enjoy.

This special day signifies a huge part of American history. Keep it fun, relaxing, and don't forget to keep it patriotic and everyone is sure to have a fabulous summer day!