Ahh, the Fourth of July. What a great summer holiday dedicated to the birth of our great nation. A day we all get off of work, strap on some red, white and blue and hit the beaches, go to a family cookout, or just watch some old USA Olympic highlights while playing the national anthem on repeat. Whatever your plans are, it is a great day to come together and have a good time. There are many July 4th essentials that you need in order to really get into the holiday. Here are just a few things you should put on your list to have an epic Fourth.
1. Red, White and Blue Clothing
Hopefully your grandma bought you one of those Old Navy American Flag shirts with the year on them again, but if not, you can always make an outfit of your own to show your American Pride. It is completely acceptable to do the "USA! USA!" chant constantly when you're wearing your colors, and the more patterns and fabrics you put together, the better.
2. American Flag Swim Suit
Whether it's a one piece, a bikini, a man thong, or some swim trunks, you just have to have your flag flying when you're hitting the beach. The stars and stripes are flattering on any body type because this is America and freedom rings.
3. A Cool Hat
I personally rock the red, white and blue bucket hat, but July 4th is a great day for your bald dagle hat to come out, your Budweiser hat, or your hat that says 'Merica because who needs that A anyway? Cowboy hats, bonnets, top hats, the whole nine yards guys. Protect your head from that hot July sun, and look good doing it.
4. A Cooler
Whether it's some Capri Sun pouches, some lemonade, water, or some alcohol for the over 21 crowd, you have to keep our drinks nice and cold in order to celebrate correctly. George Washington never drank warm beer, so neither should you.
5. Fireworks
When the day winds down, the fireworks come out. Who doesn't love fire and loud noises and pretty colors raining down from the night sky? Oh, that's right, my dog. But she can get over it, this is the Fourth of July and the fireworks will fly. (i'm such a poet).
6. Your Best Friends and Family
Every holiday is wonderful when you're surrounded by those you care about! Have fun, be happy you're off work, grill some weenies, take lots of photos and enjoy everyone's company.
7. A Funny Shirt
Who doesn't love a shirt with a quote like, "We the People Like to Party," or "Party like it's 1776"? Definitely going to be a hit at your Fourth of July BBQ. The shirt tells people, "I am a person of the Constitution," and also "I'm a party animal." Everyone wants someone who can do both right? Just don't have too many "Red, White and Brews" guys.
8. Respect
This is something you should have every day but on the 4th of July you have a lot of things to respect. First of all, each other. We're all Americans and call this place home, and we should just leave the political fighting out of the holiday. Secondly, the water. A lot of 4th of July activities involve beaches or pools and you shouldn't be afraid of the water but you need to respect it. Young kids and intoxicated people are at a higher risk of getting injured or drowning, so look out for everyone. Thirdly, respect the property you're on, whether it's a boat, a campground, a beach, a house, or a sandbar. Respect where you are and don't leave trash or other items behind for others to clean up.
Get one or get them all, but have a safe and respectful holiday everyone! Celebrate our country and send thanks to our troops. Stand together as one nation with your fellow Americans and shoot off some fireworks! Don't be afraid to wear every red, white and blue piece of clothing you have because this day only comes once a year and you look GREAT in your country's colors!
*Bald Eagle Screeching in the Distance* USA! USA! USA!
