On the 4th of July, 1776, The United States of America declared independence from Great Britain by adopting the Declaration of Independence. In the US, Independence Day celebrates the history, government, and traditions of the United States, but is also viewed as simply a summer festival.

4th of July Party Products

• Parties Online - Sydney-based party products store in operation since 1991, they specialise in tableware, balloons, costumes and more. See their 4th of July - American Independence Day section for balloons, tableware, cutouts, streamers, wigs and hats.
   
• Party Products Australia - With over 6000 party products, this is your one stop shop for all things celebratory. Based in Brisbane, Queensland, with flat rate shipping Australia wide. See their 4th of July page for red white and blue decorations and party blowouts.
   
• BalloonShop.com.au - Over 6000 balloons including latex balloons, foil balloons, balloon shapes, modelling balloons, balloon accessories, singing balloons, megaloons, bubble balloons and custom printed balloons. Delivery Australia-wide. See their American Patriotic theme for American flags, stars to scatter, party hats, blowouts, and star balloons.
  

4th of July Party Costumes

Overseas costume shops with international delivery

• Buy Costumes (US store) - Heaps of Independence Day products including hats, costumes, catering supplies and decorations. Based in the US, ships to Australia. See their extensive range of American patriotic costumes.
   
• Angels Fancy Dress (UK store) - Incredible range of fancy dress costumes and accessories for every occasion. Flat rate international delivery. Search for American to find costumes, wigs and hats. 

4th of July Food Ideas

• Have a BBQ. Hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, devilled eggs, corn on the cob, watermelon, freshly squeezed lemonade and apple pie are some "all-American" foods to include.
   
• Make an American flag cake. You can use food colouring or, for a slightly healthier option, strawberries and blueberries on white icing.
   
• For a really simple dessert, strawberries and blueberries with cream.

 
• Add some red and blue food colouring to some water and make red, white (clear) and blue ice cubes to add to drinks.

4th of July Party Ideas

• Traditionally, fireworks have played a big part in 4th of July celebrations in America. However, fireworks are illegal in Australia, so we have to find our fun in other ways. Throw streamers or confetti, and use noise makers like party blowouts and party poppers (available from Party Products Australia.)
   
• Give the kids some sparklers and glow sticks to run around with.

 
• Play American music. For example, The American National Anthem (The Star-Spangled Banner), God Bless America, The 1812 Overture (associated with 4th of July thanks to the Boston Pops), Stars and Stripes Forever, Yankee Doodle.