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

• 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.
   
• Scrapbook and Craft Superstore have everything you need for your craft and scrapbooking projects with over 18,000 scrapbook and craft supplies. You can shop by colour, so just select red, white and blue from the drop down menu at the left. Flat rate Australia-wide delivery.

4th of July Party Costumes

Overseas costume shops with international delivery

• BuyCostumes.com (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.
   
• Party Domain (UK store) - One of the leading fancy dress costume retailers online. Flat rate delivery for international orders, see their shipping information page. Search for America.

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. Search Time Life Australia for CDs.