A Backyard 4th of July: Alternative Activities and Recipes

By Jerri Ann, Contributing Writer

Summer is a time of vacations, long sunshine-y days, and building memories. For those of us who choose to live an alternative lifestyle though it can also be a time for extra work and difficult decisions. Whether we choose to eat differently than most or we budget our family’s spending on entertainment, summer can bring about uncomfortable situations.

If you’re looking for something other than the traditional firework show or 4th of July carnival, this post is for you. Whatever the reason, some of us may be looking for something to do on the 4th, but may not want it filled with fireworks or tons of junk food. Throwing a party of your own may be just what you need. This could be a wonderful opportunity for you to invite some friends over and get a sneak peek into your lifestyle as well.

Backyard 4th of July Activities

Fire Pit

Gathering your friends and family around a fire pit is a great way to share the evening, especially if you’re looking for some tasty treats. Keep reading for some wholesome fire pit snacks.

Glow-in-the-Dark Games

If your kids are too young for sparklers, look into getting some glow necklaces, balls, or frisbee. They even make glow-in-the-dark chalk.

Outdoor Word Games

Even an hour of daylight would allow time for I Spy, a nature scavenger hunt, or bug-catching.

Image by film_fatale

Wholesome Fire Pit Recipes

Banana Boats With the banana still in the peel, slice the banana lengthwise (not in two pieces, but slice it so the banana opens). Fill the banana with shredded coconut, soaked pecans, and allergy-free chocolate chips. Wrap up in aluminum foil, place in the coals for 5 minutes. Enjoy!

Fire Roasted Fruit Sliced apples wrapped in foil, with a dab of butter and cinnamon take about 10-15 minutes to roast in a fire pit. Pair them with this real food caramel dipping sauce, and you’re sure to have a treat to satisfy any sweet tooth. Roasting halved peaches or sliced pineapple is another great treat perfect for the fire pit!

DIY Bug Repellant

Whether you decide to celebrate the 4th at home or outside under a sky of fireworks, you’ll most likely be in company with some pesky bugs. Most commercial bug repellants contain propane, butane, and ethanol. No wonder such products have flammable warnings. These are not products I would use, especially around a fire. Some companies are opting out of putting DEET in their products, but many still do. This pesticide has been backed by the government, but if you visit the EGW’s site, some things might not add up.

For instance, they warn against using “too much” of this product, recommend washing it off once inside, and tell us not to apply under our clothing. No thanks, folks. There’s got to be a better way.

This homemade insect repellent is made of essential oils and coconut oil, which you can buy fractionated so it’s always in liquid form. Already have bug bites? You can apply lavender essential oil to help ease the itching and reduce swelling. Also, doTERRA now makes a product, TerraShield, designed specifically to repel biting bugs. Ask me how to order today.