20 Cheap 4th of July Activities For Big Fun Without Blowing Your Budget
The 4th of July is all about celebrating freedom, family, and fun—but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune.
These cheap or free 4th of July activities bring all the patriotic spirit without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re looking for exciting ways to enjoy the holiday on a budget or simply want to keep things simple, we’ve got you covered!
Get ready for a memorable and budget-friendly celebration!
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Cheap or Free 4th of July Activities
1. Have a Picnic at the Park
Spending time outdoors is not only good for you, but it’s naturally cheap.
So, pack a basket with homemade sandwiches, fresh fruit, and cold drinks. Then, head to a local park. Enjoy your meal under the shade of a tree, play a game of frisbee, or simply relax under the sun.
2. Read the Declaration of Independence
This holiday is about America, so what better way to celebrate it than to discuss its history? What do you know about how this country was made?
Check out the Declaration of Independence or try some free 4th of July trivia to add a little learning to the day. Plus, it fosters great discussion and appreciation!
“Happy 4th of July! This country of immigrants, religious refugees, outcasts and dreamers has come a long way. Let’s keep going.”
— Ellen DeGeneres
3. Attend a Parade
Many communities host free parades featuring decorated floats, marching bands, and local groups. Arrive early to grab a good spot and bring chairs or a blanket to relax while you watch the festivities.
4. Host a Backyard Cookout
Gathering your friends and family is a beautiful way to spend the holiday. And you can feed a crowd well on a budget too. Have everyone bring a dish to share to make it even more affordable (and easier!).
5. Sing Great Songs
While you wait for fireworks, open up Pandora or another app and listen to a playlist of American-themed songs.
Favorites Include:
- “America” by Simon & Garfunkel
- “God Bless the USA” by Lee Greenwood
- “Party in the USA” by Miley Cyrus
- “Born in the USA” by Bruce Springsteen
- “American Saturday Night” by Brad Paisley
- “American Woman” by Lenny Kravitz
- “American Pie” by Don Mclean
If kids are around, break out the glow sticks and catch fireflies. And of course, don’t forget the snacks. Waiting for fireworks is half the fun!
6. Play Outdoor Games
Gather your family and friends for backyard games like cornhole, ring toss, frisbee, or even a game of flag football. Most of these require equipment someone in your group is likely to have – so they’re free!
7. Savor Patriotic Fun Food
And, of course, what’s a holiday without food traditions! Insist on easy, budget-friendly food for this day.
Blueberries and strawberries are often still in season and make just the right colors! So, get out the fruit with whipped cream, make yogurt pops, popsicles, or a homemade fruit pie.
Or, enjoy a special treat by making your own DIY ice cream bar!
8. Go to a Free Concert or Festival
Check local event listings for free concerts or festivals happening in your area. Many cities host live music and entertainment, making it a great way to enjoy the holiday without spending money.
9. Take a Patriotic Family Photo
Next, document your good times with a photo of the people you spend the day with.
If you make this a yearly tradition, you’ll have a terrific snapshot of unforgettable memories. Plus a catalog of how your family changes over the years.
10. Hang Your Flag
Regardless of our political beliefs and backgrounds, we are crazy blessed to call this country our home. So, show a little pride, and put out a flag or banner.
It’s a fantastic reminder of:
- how lucky we are to live in a country where we have the freedoms that we do
- the sacrifices that others make for it.
11. Do Free 4th of July Activities With the Kids
Next, do fun 4th of July activities with the kids! This cute outdoor 4th of July scavenger hunt will keep them busy.
Or break out the crafts. We love making firework paintings on this day. If you find bright neon paint, it looks awesome on black construction paper. It’s a super simple activity that doesn’t require much cleanup!
Try this creative (free) Left Right 4th of July Story Game Printable to add to your celebration!
12. Decorate Bikes and Have a Mini Parade
Let the kids get creative by decorating their bikes, scooters, or wagons with streamers, flags, and ribbons in red, white, and blue. Then, have a mini neighborhood parade where they can proudly show off their creative designs.
13. Watch a Patriotic Movie
So many big blockbusters are released in the summer! Why not make it a tradition to go see a movie on the 4th? It’s a stress-free commitment that everyone will look forward to.
Go during matinee times and bring in your own snacks to keep this cheap!
Or turn your backyard into a minu drive-in theater by setting up a projector. Pick a patriotic movie like Independence Day, National Treasure, or Captain America and enjoy a cozy outdoor movie night under the stars.
14. Watch a Fireworks Show
Nothing says 4th of July like a sky full of dazzling fireworks! Most cities and towns host free fireworks displays at parks, downtown areas, or near the water. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy the show with family and friends.
Why not add a new twist? Take turns naming the different fireworks you see in the sky. Or name yourself a funny fireworks name! Try it out with this free What’s Your Fireworks Name printable!
15. Have a Water Balloon Fight
Cool off from the summer heat with a fun water balloon fight! Fill up a bucket of balloons, divide into teams, and enjoy some splashing fun in the backyard. It’s an inexpensive way to keep everyone entertained.
16. Head to the Water
If you can, head to the lake or ocean on your beautiful Independence Day. Enjoy a nature environment while cooling off.
17. Go for a Hike or Nature Walk
Take advantage of the summer weather by going for a hike or nature walk at a nearby park or trail. You’ll enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, get some exercise, and appreciate the freedom of wide-open spaces.
Pro Trip: Make this a morning event before the other 4th of July activities and while it’s cooler outside.
18. Make S’mores Over a Campfire
End the night on a sweet note by roasting marshmallows and making s’mores over a campfire or fire pit. It’s a simple and delicious treat that brings everyone together for storytelling and laughter.
19. Volunteer or Visit a Local Veterans Memorial
Take time to honor those who have served by visiting a veterans memorial or volunteering at a local organization that supports military families. It’s a meaningful way to reflect on Independence Day.
20. Stargaze After Fireworks
Once the fireworks are over, lay out blankets and watch the stars. The night sky often looks extra beautiful on the 4th of July. And it’s a peaceful way to wind down after a day of excitement.
What’s Next?
These cheap 4th of July activities and things to do ensure you can celebrate without spending a fortune. Which one will you try this year?
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