Celebrate the Fourth without Fireworks

Alternative activities families can enjoy today:

Each year, more than 8,700 children and adults are treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries, according to U.S. Consumer Project Safety Commission.

Did you know? Sparklers reach temperatures of 1000 degrees F and can light clothing on fire.

That sobering statistic is enough to make many parents think twice about including fireworks in their family celebrations during the Fourth of July. However, coming up with firework alternatives for the whole family can be challenging.

Did you know? Lawrence City Limits is a Firework Free Zone

Here are some fun alternatives to setting off fireworks:

  • Bike Parade – Grab all the neighborhood kids and their bikes! Have everyone decorate their own bike at home and then meet for a parade or have a bike decorating party at your house (may we suggest the garage?). Think streamers, painted tin cans on string trailing behind bikes, balloons – anything goes!
  • Get the noise and flash without fireworks
    • Go out and buy glow sticks, they glow in the dark and are similar to a sparkler. Not only are they safer, but they last longer.
    • If noise is what they want, try noise makers bought from your local party supply store or make ones at home with items you already have on hand.
    • Pour confetti into balloons (about 1/4 full), inflate and let the kids pop them, they are satisfyingly loud and sparkly.
    • Never underestimate the power of a good, old fashion flash light. They are great for exploring dark closets; walking in the dark, pretend camping, and flashlight tag. Even better when they change colors!
  • Throw a birthday party – It is, after all, America’s birthday. Engage the whole family by throwing a birthday party, decorate the house, make a cake, sing “Happy Birthday” to the USA.
  • Find other ways to entertain
      • Purchase buckets of sidewalk chalk, and allow the kids to transform your neighborhood’s sidewalks into an explosion of color.
      • Try blowing gigantic glowing bubbles by pouring washable glow paint into the bubble solution to make a 50/50 mix.
      • Play water balloon tag.
      • Buy red, white and blue silly string.
      • Make a patriotic craft.

     

  • Organize a contest or block party – include any of the activities listed above.
    • Play a game of softball with family and friends or go bigger and organize a neighborhood or church tournament; assign blue red and white team colors.
    • Hold a pie eating contest.
    • Get the dad’s involved and have a grilling contest (be sure to follow these grilling safety tips).
    • Have old fashion sack, three-legged and wheel barrel races.

Plan a fun and safe holiday and follow these safety guidelines.