July Fourth is fast approaching, and you know what that means: fabuLyss fireworks and hot dogs! Independence Day can be fun for the entire family. A barbecue is the classic way to spend the day, but if your grilling skills aren’t so great, then I have some activities that will be fun for everyone in your family.
Now we all know that fireworks are the greatest part of the Fourth of July. No matter how old you get, they still leave you in awe. One of the best places to get a good view is Brooklyn Bridge Park. This park has one of the best views of the fireworks, not to mention a restored 1920s merry-go-round and riverside esplanades. Bring a picnic and enjoy everything this urban playground has to offer.
Another great spot to view the fireworks and have a day full of family fun is South Street Seaport. This harbor is home to the seaport museum, which contains a fleet of privately owned historic ships. It also has a mall with retail shops and restaurants. Spend the day eating, shopping, learning, and then viewing those fireworks at one of the best spots in the city.
One of my favorite things to do on July 4 is go to the beach! Who doesn’t love to bake in the sun with a good book while your kids build sand castles?
Some of my DivaMoms book club summer reads are “Love and Miss Communication” by Elyssa Friedland, “Beach Town” by Mary Kay Andrews, “The Balance Project” by Susie Orman Schnall, and “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr.
Atlantic Beach, Long Beach, The Hamptons, the Rockaways: there are so many beaches that are just waiting for you to pop a squat and soak in the sun. Spend July 4 relaxing with your family with sea salt in your hair and the sand in between your toes.
Coney Island: the old-school amusement park that never seems to get old. Coney Island is basically your child’s dream come true. With bumper cars, rides, a hot dog-eating contest, games, and the aquarium nearby, there’s nothing not to like. Fill your day with fried dough and lots of franks. Did you know they originated in Coney Island? Relive you’re childhood memories while helping your kids make some of their own.
Now of course, we have to talk about the classic barbecue, where you invite all your friends and family. Bring out the hamburgers and weiners. If you’re leaving the grilling to your husband, then I have the perfect coleslaw recipe for you. This super easy and DeLysscious formula will leave you with the perfect side: www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/trisha-yearwood/fourth-of-july-coleslaw-recipe.html.
Celebrate America’s Independence Day with the people you love most! With all the available options, there’s something fun for every family out there. So go out, eat a hotdog (or two), and spend some quality time with your family!
Lyss Stern is the founder of DivaLysscious Moms (www.divam
