Party Like It’s 1776

At Halloween, we load the porch with jack-o-lanterns and and cover the house with spooky-chic decor. At Thanksgiving, we bring out the cornucopia and our best holiday dinnerware. And in December, we wouldn’t dream of not decking out our homes in sparkling lights and other festive baubles. So why is it that when Independence Day rolls around, we don’t feel compelled to do a thing.

Sure, we might strike up the BBQ grill and invite a few friends over for burgers and beer. We may even head out to watch a fireworks show. But rarely do we go all out like the Mexicans do on Cinco de Mayo (which, incidentally, is not Mexico’s Independence Day, but you’d think it was, with all the celebrating going on). In fact, some Americans we know party more enthusiastically on Cinco de Mayo than they do on July 4.

C’mon, people. This is our big day. This year, let’s do it right.

Home-goods suppliers have got you covered for the best Fourth of July bash ever. They’ve emblazoned Old Glory on everything from barware and kitchen gadgets to home accessories such as pillows, blankets and lanterns. They’ve also churned out red-white-and-blue versions of common objects—a July 4 pancake flipper, anyone?—and a plethora of patriotic party decorations, from cupcake picks and wine charms to banners honoring the legacy of our freedom fighters. Even the party food has gone star-spangled. Put some flag cookies or a bottle of Chandon’s Summer 2014 Limited Edition Blanc de Noirs on the table and your guests will be ready to revel.

So what are you waiting for? Load up on some red-and-white-and-blue and make your Independence Day soirée explosive. 

Photo above, clockwise from top left: Love Rustically Yours painted Mason jars on etsy.com, $15. Liberty coasters from Lillian Vernon. July 4 party banner from Ovation Studio, $28. Chandon 2014 Summer Limited Edition Blanc de Noirs, $24. Flag cookies by Eleni’s New York Stars and Stripes cookie gift box, $25. Navy and red striped cupcake wrappers by Mooses Creations on etsy.com, $6. Westport Adirondack chair by Shine Company Inc., $117. Star Spangled Spatulas from Areaware, $8 each. Old Glory pillow by The Pillow Toss, $17.

For more fun July 4 party supplies and decorations, visit Red Typewriter’s Pinterest page.