It’s time to start planning your Fourth of July bash - it’s nearly a month away! Celebrate this Independence Day with with red, white and blue decor, lawn games, and a toast to America.

Start the day with fun in the sun. Rent or create DIY lawn games like corn hole, old-fashioned ring toss, and over sized games such as tic-tac-toe or jumbo Jenga. Water games will help keep everyone cool in the heat. A water slide bounce house will be a hit for both kids and adults.

Music is essential for an independence celebration, and the options are limitless! Don’t rely on a playlist and speaker to pace the party, hire a professional to do that. Whichever direction, there’s a performer for every type of party celebration: DJs, singer guitarists, country bands, trumpeters, variety bands and more.

Take inspiration from the flag when it comes to food and drink. Traditional barbecue like hotdogs and hamburgers is always a crowd pleaser, but you can make a tablescape more festive by incorporating stars and stripes into the menu (cheese board, desserts). Don’t forget the birthday cake - America turns 242 this year. Replace typical cocktails with something that’s red, white and boozy. There are tons of patriotic drink recipes online!

Prepare for after-dark fun once the sun sets. If you’re viewing fireworks provide comfy seating like benches, cushions and blankets. Celebrate America’s birthday with sparklers for everyone. Treat guests to a s’mores table that offers a variety of marshmallow, graham cracker and chocolate options.

The Fourth of July is a great way to get all friends and family together. This day will be full of memories in the making!. Set up a photo station, complete with a patriotic backdrop and photo props. If you have enough party planning to think about, a photo booth rental can do all the work for you.