Life
The 4th of July is typically entails an outdoor party, filled with plenty of BBQ, color-appropriate cocktails, and eye-catching fireworks. (And, of course, time spent with family and friends.) But what if it literally rains on your parade or outdoor party? Luckily, there are plenty of ways to have fun indoors, including a number of 4th of July indoor games.
One of my most memorable 4th of July celebrations was one where it was unusually cold for July. As it started to pour, my friends decided to make the best of it by having everyone over for some indoor fun. It all culminated with hours upon hours of board game fun, everything from my old childhood favorite Monopoly to new favorite Ticket To Ride (where each person builds train tracks all over a map of the U.S., connecting various cities as you go). That was when I learned you could have a fantastic Independence Day even when stuck indoors from less-than-desirable weather.
There are plenty of 4th of July games that will turn your house into party central. And if you're stuck indoors this year, one of these five indoor 4th of July games should serve you and your guests well.
14th Of July Bingo
Stuck inside? Reader's Digest suggested playing some 4th of July bingo. You can find cards online or even design your own using construction paper and stickers. It's easy enough to buy some small prizes at your local dollar store so that you can give away something to the winners.
2Indoor Scavenger Hunt
Real Simple suggested hosting a 4th of July scavenger hunt. Try making it patriotic by hiding printouts of American flags with some fun activities written on each, such as "do five push-ups" or "take a shot" (for a more adult version). That way, when friends find them, they'll have a reason to keep going.
3Uncle Sam Hat Competition
An easy way to have some indoor fun on the 4th of July is to host an Uncle Sam hat competition, as suggested by the aforementioned Reader's Digest article. Set up a card table with all of your supplies such as safety scissors, glue, star cut-outs, construction paper in red, white, and blue, cotton balls, colorful glitter, and tape. It's everything your guests will need to create their very own Uncle Sam hats. After everyone is done, have your friends and family parade their creations and everyone vote on the winner. After all, it's a democracy.
4Giant Tic-Tac-Toe
Better Homes & Gardens, suggested giant Tic-Tac-Toe as a way to keep kids entertained if the weather is frightful. Although this is a popular game played outside (especially when you outfit the board game with red and blue stripes and use the appropriate patriotic colors to mark your Xs and Os), there's no reason why you can't bring a huge board inside. Set it up in the biggest room of the house and just watch the kiddies play.
5Soda Bottle Bowling
A really fun way to get into some fun on the 4th of July is to create your very own soda bottle bowling. Follow Roots and Wings suggestion by wrapping empty soda cans with red, white, and blue paper, then using wiffle balls to knock the "pins" over.
6Marshmallow Catapult Competition
Mommy Poppins' instructions for a marshmallow catapult are easier than you'd think. See who can shoot their 'mallow the furthest.
7American Beer Pong
For an adults-only game, try good old fashioned beer pong. But make it themed to the day by getting red Solo cups on one side and blue ones on the other side. Then give players white or silver permanent markers and have them add their very own decorations (stars and stripes, obviously).
