Prepping the House for a Fourth of July Staycation - Southern State of Mind Blog by Heather

Well, I fully intended for this post to go out earlier this week… but then swim team… and Sweet B’s 5th birthday… and here we are! So I am skipping my Front Porch Coffee Talk this week but will be back next week with that since I think we are all loving that series!

It has become a tradition that instead of leaving town, we stick around Atlanta to celebrate the Fourth of July. We find that there is plenty to keep us busy. Since we are home, I enjoy making the house a little extra festive for the long weekend. We will also have family staying with us this year so even more reason to make the house festive. If you are planning to stay home this year, here are a few simple ideas to help the holiday weekend feel a little extra special!

DECORATE YOUR ENTRYWAY

Whether a simple wreath with flags or a patriotic bunting like I have here on my front porch, just a little red, white and blue on your entry helps to make your house feel special. I can’t wait to hang this bunting up for the holiday weekend!

AMERICAN FLAG BUNTING
WEAR ALLLL THE RED WHITE AND BLUE

I think it helps to have a few outfits prepared beforehand for whatever activities you have planned so you can be festive without stressing. So I will definitely get my straw bag out along with other red white and blue favorites. I will also try to track down a few cute outfits for the boys because you know how it is trying to get everyone out the door…

COVER UP | SWIMSUIT (size up) | SANDALS | FLAG TOTE (similar) | SUNGLASSES
FIND YOUR LOCAL EVENTS

The Peachtree Road Race is a huge tradition here in Atlanta. We have participated in it several times, but lately with the boys we just park and watch the event which has become a fun tradition itself. It is so fun and festive and a great way to kick off the holiday! Of course, there are lots of parades around town so definitely just pick something and get up and go!
GRAB SOME FIREWORKS AND SPARKLERS

I snagged a few boxes of sparklers and small fireworks to have at the house. We will get to see Fireworks at the Braves game, but it is always fun to have some around the house if the mood strikes!
PREPARE FESTIVE FOOD

I have a couple “go-to” festive recipes I make every Fourth of July but a simple Pinterest search will turn up lots of great ideas! This Wave Your Flag Cake is easy, festive and a crowd pleaser!
FLAGS, FLAGS, and MORE FLAGS

Line your driveway with them. Or start a new neighborhood tradition like we did when we put flags at all of our neighbor’s mailboxes. Or maybe even paint your toes with them- I loved this fun patriotic pedicure last year! This is such an easy way to get festive!