Next Tuesday is one of the most patriotic holidays in the USA – it’s the United States Independence Day, which is celebrated every year on the 4^th July and is always full of family, friends, fireworks and fun. For our UK users, here’s a quick bit of history – Independence Day celebrates the separation of the USA from Great Britain, and the United States’ declaration of independence. We feel it’s important to know the reason behind the holiday and all the festivities it brings!

From having small family gatherings and picnics with friends, to throwing huge parties and eating and drinking until dawn, the people of America celebrate the 4^th of July in many different ways. Now, don’t panic – although it may sound like celebrating this holiday could cost you a lot of money, enjoying yourself on Independence Day doesn’t have to mean spending loads and breaking your budget.

Take a look at our ideas for things you can do on the 4^th of July that won’t cost you a fortune but will ensure you’re having just as much fun as everybody else…

Have a family gathering – the Independence Day holiday is the perfect time to spend a day with your family so why not throw a 4^th of July barbecue or picnic? To make sure things don’t get too expensive, you could ask everyone to bring some food or drink with them so the cost is shared. Hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob and coleslaw are great foods to enjoy whilst celebrating Independence Day with all your favorite people.

Go to a parade – the 4th of July parades are world famous, the epitome of celebration and best of all, they’re all free to attend! The colours, the music, the people – the whole atmosphere surrounding an Independence Day parade couldn’t be brilliant. If there’s a parade in your town, it’ll definitely be the place to be if you’re looking to have some fun on the 4th of July!

Watch a firework display – this is one of the most popular ways to celebrate the 4^th of July across America and many firework displays are free to attend so you won’t have to pay a thing to celebrate Independence Day! There are displays being held in a huge number of locations for this holiday so just have a look on Google for the ones closest to you – you’ll be spoilt for choice!

Go to a concert – there are often many Independence Day concerts held specifically to celebrate the holiday and what it means to the USA. Although the biggest concerts will most likely be expensive, there are a number of smaller ones held locally that are either really cheap, or free to attend. The atmosphere of a 4^th of July concert will be just as good as a parade so get ready to have some fun.

Dressing patriotically for the day, baking 4^th of July cakes and cookies, or even just hanging the American flag from your house or car, are all great ways to get in to the spirit of celebrating and they won’t break the bank either.

Do you have plans for the 4th of July? We’d love to know what they are! Let us know what you’ll be doing by leaving a comment below…