Homeowners associations are always looking for ways to celebrate the 4th of July. These celebrations not only commemorate the meaning of freedom but also bring communities closer together. From budget-friendly options to more lavish events, there are plenty of opportunities for associations to plan.
Event Ideas to Celebrate the 4th of July
Independence Day is right around the corner, and what better way to mark the holiday than with a community-wide event? Over the years, associations can run out of ideas for the types of events to plan. Residents can grow tired of the same, unexciting celebration.
Here are the best 4th of July event ideas for an HOA.
1. Hold a Flag-Raising Ceremony
An association doesn’t have to go all out for a respectful and appropriate celebration. Boards can organize a flag-raising ceremony with a simple gathering.
When raising the American flag, it is essential to follow the U.S. Flag Code. The board can also include the national anthem, a moment of reflection, or a reading about Independence Day. This is a significant yet low-cost way to set the tone of the holiday.
2. Host a Community BBQ or Potluck
For mid-range 4th of July events, a community BBQ or potluck is a great option. To plan one, choose a location that will accommodate everyone, such as the clubhouse lawn or the poolside. The HOA can provide all the necessary food items for the party or have residents bring their own dishes to share in a potluck-style arrangement.
To complete the event, ensure there’s sufficient seating and shaded areas. Play some music to set the mood and include a few simple games that appeal to all ages.
3. Organize a Parade
One of the most popular Fourth of July celebrations is a parade. The HOA can plan a community parade featuring decorated bikes, wagons, golf carts, and even pets. Kids can show off their red, white, and blue creations or come in patriotic costumes.
Board members should plan the route early. Keep it short and safe, with enough space for everyone to pass. The endpoint can even be an ample gathering space, where the community can cap things off with a mini party.
Alternatively, the HOA can organize a viewing party of the National Independence Day Parade. The association can live stream the event at the clubhouse or a community park.
4. Run a House or Yard Decorating Contest
A house or yard decorating contest gets everyone involved without the HOA needing to expend many resources. Invite homeowners to deck out their properties with patriotic decor.
Offer small prizes for different winning categories, such as “Most Creative” or “Best Use of Flags.” If board members are serving as judges, they can still decorate their homes, but they should remove their own entries from the running for fairness.
5. Set Up a Red, White, and Blue Scavenger Hunt
One of the more unique ways to celebrate the 4th of July is to plan a scavenger hunt. This is geared more towards the kids in the community, but it’s also enjoyable for families.
To plan one, design a fun and safe scavenger hunt around the neighborhood. Use patriotic-themed clues or items. Then, winners can get small prizes or goodie bags.
6. Schedule an Outdoor Movie Night
A movie night is a budget-friendly yet sociable way to get everyone in the holiday spirit. To accomplish this, the board can set up a projector in a spacious outdoor area. The board can pick a family-friendly patriotic movie or line up a slew of films for a marathon.
Of course, don’t forget to provide enough seating for everyone. Alternatively, families can bring their blankets, lawn chairs, and bean bags. Snacks and beverages round out the whole shebang.
7. Plan Lawn Games and Kids’ Activities
Games are the perfect way to engage the kids in the neighborhood while encouraging socialization. Set up stations for cornhole, sack races, water balloon tosses, or all of the above.
The board can also install a craft station where kids can make paper flags, holiday hats, or anything they can imagine. Make a whole day of it, complete with snacks and drinks.
8. Organize a Community Volunteer Project
A generous way to celebrate the 4th of July is to organize a volunteer project for the association. Residents can spend the holiday giving back and making their community a better place.
There are many volunteer options available. The association can coordinate a morning clean-up walk or collect donations for local veterans. Even something as simple as writing thank-you cards to deployed service members can go a long way.
9. Host a Bake-Off or Dessert Contest
Who says Fourth of July happenings can’t be sweet? A dessert contest will give residents a chance to showcase their baking skills while enjoying all the tasty treats on offer. To maintain uniformity, consider implementing a theme for the desserts, such as “red, white, and blue.” The winner can take home a small prize.
10. Offer Live or Local Entertainment
Independence Day is a time for fun, and associations can facilitate that by booking entertainment. Hire a small local band or invite a student music group to perform. If the HOA is on a budget, creating a festive playlist and playing it over the speakers is a sufficient option.
Of course, the board should keep noise restrictions in mind — both community rules and local ordinances. The goal is to have fun without disturbing the peace of other people.
11. Host a Patriotic Talent Show
Joining an HOA helps instill a sense of community among residents. One way to combine both participation and entertainment is to host a patriotic talent show.
Invite residents of all ages to showcase their talents, whether it’s singing, dancing, poetry, or playing instruments. Make sure to keep things light and fun. Don’t forget to set up a simple stage in a common area and offer small prizes or certificates of participation.
12. Set Up a Photo Booth
Even something as simple as a photo booth can get residents in the mood for the holiday. Set up a backdrop with streamers, flags, and props. The board can even hang string lights for the evening. Residents can then snap fun photos to share on social media or the community newsletter.
13. Create a Safe Fireworks Alternative
A classic way to celebrate the 4th of July is to watch a fireworks show. Given the risks involved, associations should offer a safer alternative instead. Board members can pass out glow sticks or LED foam sticks to illuminate the night. The HOA can also organize a light show or hang string lights.
Instilling a Sense of Community
Residents of an HOA can celebrate the 4th of July together. All the association has to do is plan an event or activity that allows residents to do that. By implementing one or more of these ideas, communities can encourage participation and build camaraderie.
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