Spring break is here. Summer is coming. And for moms with kiddos on school break, that means one thing: swimming. But as much as we love splashing with our little ones, the struggle is real. Between chasing after the kids and jumping in with them, finding the right swimsuit cover-up can lead us straight down the street to Old Oversized T-Shirt Lane. We’ve all been there—trying to wrangle our little ones while simultaneously trying to look okay and, y’know, not fall out of any part of our swimsuit at the pool. These mom-approved Amazon swimsuit cover-ups are gonna be a game-changer.
Swimsuit cover-ups the ultimate mom hack to make us feel more comfortable and confident while still enjoying the sun and water. And let’s be honest, they’re often much cuter than our actual swimsuits (unless you follow our swimsuit guide, in which case, they’ll be equally as cute). Regardless, something to throw on during swim days are a must. So, in honor of all the swim-loving moms and their splashy babes out there, we’ve put together a list of the best mom swimsuit cover-ups from our favorite partner in parenting: Amazon. Snag one or three—we’re going to be ready for anything this summer. We’re moms, afterall. We have to be.
Collared V-Neck Cover-Up Shirt
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If you're into cover-ups that don't have to look like cover-ups, this pullover collared v-neck shirt is perfect! Available in multiple colors.
Yes, the user reviews suggest there's a bit of a learning curve for throwing it on, but it's a super popular cover-up that really is really comfy once you get the hang of it!
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If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Traveling with teens is a whole new ballgame. When the kids were little, you picked where you wanted to go, ensured there were activities the family would enjoy, and off you went. With teens, you’ll be better off consulting with them on activities and getting their buy-in before you book (or brace yourself for surliness later).
With that in mind, we’ve highlighted some places that we think teens will love, from the usual beach activities to off-the-beaten-path destinations. All the resorts listed below have accommodation options that are great for families traveling with teens and are ideal for multi-generational and group travel as well.
For the outdoorsy teen who is looking for adventure and excitement
The Resort at Paws Up, Greenough, MT
The Resort at Paws Up
The Resort at Paws Up | Greenough, MT
This is the premier all-inclusive, multi-generational escape that combines luxury with unforgettable adventure on a 37,000-acre ranch featuring untamed Montana wilderness.
Activities include private cattle drives, horseback riding lessons, trail rides, archery, fly-fishing, shooting clays, rappelling, Kids Corp of Discovery, a mountain bike float trail, and more. After a day on the range, guests can indulge in sensational culinary experiences at seasonal dining venues within the Village at Paws Up and rejuvenating spa treatments at Spa Town. For barbecue lovers ready to kick off summer, MMG weekend is the perfect time to visit. There’s also An Independence Day Vacation Package during the Fourth of July holiday.
Big Cedar Lodge | Ridgedale, MO Chances are your teen may have seen the television show Ozark, and the beautiful scenery captivated them as it did us. This award-winning wilderness resort is a playground for all ages, with specific programming that allows teenagers to explore the wonders of the Ozarks. This lodge is great for groups of kids traveling together. Daily activities include glow-in-the-dark volleyball; DJ Dance Parties; teen archery tag; mini golf; fishing excursions; and hiking. At Fun Mountain, teens can bowl in the underwater-themed bowling alley, play laser tag, Go-Kart, or traverse the sky-high ropes course.
YMCA of the Rockies | Estes Park, CO
Whether you want to be away from the crowds or looking for that epic Colorado mountain experience, the whole family will be in awe of the mountains and wildlife in the backyard of Estes Park base camp at Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). Take a tour with Wildside 4×4—on-road and off-road options available for incredible thrills. After all your adventures, teens will love Munchin House, which offers 40 flavors of homemade ice cream among other treats.
YMCA of the Rockies is the best spot to lay your head when visiting Estes Park. With loads of different accommodations and tons of activities from guided hikes to fly fishing, this spot will check all the boxes. Be sure to head to the retro roller rink for some family fun!
Beautifully situated in the Santa Rosa Mountains, La Quinta Resort & Club, with its casita-style accommodations, makes it a nice fit for families with teenagers. Boasting 16 world-class hard courts, five clay tennis courts, and eight pickleball courts, La Quinta Resort offers talented pros available for one-on-one and group instruction. Teens are also invited to perfect their swing on the green on one of five unique, award-winning public golf courses. For teens looking to soak up some sunshine, the pool area is an oasis. Set on 1,400 acres of land, La Quinta Resort & Club allows for plenty of space for teenagers to explore and have fun.
This AAA Four Diamond resort is tucked away in the Texas Hill Country, along the Lower Colorado River. The golf course, designed by golf architect Arthur Hills, winds its way around the 405-acre property and offers beautiful views of the woods, river, and rolling hill country. The course is designed for golfers of all levels, there is a 13-acre driving range, and two practice putting greens. After tackling the 72-par course, enjoy tons of other fun activities like swimming (there’s a heated pool), axe throwing, horseback riding, basketball, kayaking, hiking, tennis, ping pong, and more. Teens will have so much to do, they might even forget to check their phones (we can hope!).
The Lodge at Sea Island | Georgia
Sea Island is a private island resort off the southeast coast of Georgia. The Forbes Five-Star Cloister is a Mediterranean masterpiece that preserves the original architecture’s illustrious history and unique essence. The Lodge at Sea Island has three championship golf courses and a 17,000-square-foot Golf Performance Center, among many amazing activities like horseback riding, falconry, and archery. Does your teen want to improve their golf skills while on vacation? You can book a lesson at the Golf Performance Center, where multiple PGA TOUR Pros play and train. Not into golf? There are lots of other options, including rental bikes and horseback riding.
Set on the shores of an 18,000-acre nature reserve on the island of Providenciales in Turks and Caicos, Amanyara is a pristine Caribbean oasis that features timber-shingled, stand-alone pavilions sensitively integrated into the natural surroundings with views of the ocean, tranquil ponds or coastal vegetation. The Amanyara Science Explorers and Environmental Keepers (SEEK) Camps in collaboration with the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science in Miami has programming targeted to children (ages five to 10) as well as pre-teens and teens (ages 11 to 14). SEEK camps focus on three primary themes—Coastal Conservation, Reef Rescue, and Sun, Moon and Stars—with hands-on science activities and guided experiences, such as kayaking and snorkeling led by Frost Science Educators.
Additionally, for teens who want to improve their sports and fitness skills, The Amanyara Legends program is a great option for teens who want to stay fit and improve their skills. Amenities include private Har-Tru clay tennis courts, a pickleball court, a basketball court, and a soccer pitch. The Amanyara Legends program invites guests to learn and improve their sporting skills through clinics with award-winning professional athletes from across the globe.
The Boca Raton l Florida The Boca Raton just opened up its epic teen club for guests ages 11 to 15. The highlight for teens looking for some thrills is the newly unveiled Flowrider surf simulator. For some sweet treats, choose from a mocktail bar with a dedicated bartender to a candy wall; kids can grab a snack while immersing themselves in engaging experiences. And a Youth Attendant is at the ready to ensure it all goes smoothly.
The Harborside Pool Club at The Boca Raton is a lakefront oasis set among tropical palms featuring three pools, a 450-foot floating river, water slides, themed kiddie cabanas, and new waterfront dining at Harbor House. Family stays are especially easy on the property with the newly renovated 27-story Tower situated next to Harborside Pool Club. The Tower allows for flexible room configurations, including connecting suites and entire floor takeovers. Your teens will be delighted to receive snacks from the robot butlers!
For teens who want adventure and cultural experiences
The iconic Mauna Kea Resort, comprised of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, caters to families with teens who crave adventure and cultural experiences. With a “stay at one, play at both” mantra, guests can enjoy amenities at both properties during their stay, from outrigger canoeing and Manta Night Swims to world-class oceanfront dining and luxury spas. Teens can play a casual game of pickleball or tennis, trek a portion of Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, enjoy the Mauna Kea Luau with a fire show, learn to hula or play the ukelele, participate in crafts, stand-up paddleboard or kayak, spot sea turtles while snorkeling, and swimming at Mauna Kea Beach and Hapuna Beach.
theWit Chicago | Chicago, IL If your teen is looking for a city experience, theWit Hotel is in the center of it all. Less than a 10-minute drive to Grant Park and within walking distance to Chicago’s must-see spots including the Bean, State Street, the Chicago Theatre, and even Lake Michigan, theWit sits in the heart of the action, allowing guests to choose their own adventure. Constantly named one of the safest neighborhoods in the city. Families with teens staying at theWit can experience both the hotel’s luxury and comfort and the excitement and bustle of Chicago, making it the ideal place for young travelers.
For the teens who love art and adventure
Goldener Hirsch, Auberge Resorts Collection | Deer Valley, UT This family-friendly resort offers year-round wilderness adventures and immersive experiences. Activities include horseback riding, hiking, and art and pottery classes. If your teen enjoys art, they can participate in watercolor painting classes, figure drawing classes, or a unique guided pottery wheel experience. If your teen’s choice of art is in the form of food, they’ll love learning how to make delicious Bavarian pretzels, and of course, the best part is eating it after.
For the younger teens and tweens who love marine life
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives | Fari Islands
Their collaboration with the legendary Jean-Michel Cousteau and his Ambassadors of the Environment program, a first in the Asia-Pacific region and offers hands-on activities and science experiments for kids 10+ to explore.
Whether it’s diving to see the rich marine life, or taking nature walks to explore the fascinating flora and fauna of the Maldives, teens will have a variety of activities to fully immerse themselves in the region. The program provides guests of all ages with activities focused on the ocean and coral reefs, nature ecology, and sustainable living. Teens will experience An Expedition of Mirco Plastic where they can capture sand samples and examine them under a microscope to learn about microplastics. The second area is called Little Conservationists, which focuses on science experiments to explore the amazing properties of water. The third focus is called Aquatic Mirco World, where teens can join a marine biologist to discover the micro-world of organisms living in the ocean. If your teen is into marine life or wants to explore marine biology, this resort is a great option for you.
If your teens have a beloved pet, sometimes it’s hard to leave your best bud at home. The Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa makes it easy. Rated five stars by Forbes; amenities include two pools and the new Loggers Kids & Hideaway Teens Club. Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa knows the same thing we do—to keep teens’ attention, you need variety, and their newly renovated space offers games, crafting, and culinary activities, plus easy access to the new ice cream parlor, Melt.
The teens club is outfitted with environments for teens ages 13 – 17, featuring specialized spaces for gaming with Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo games, as well as a 24-hour arcade that includes everything from pinball to an old-fashioned claw game, table tennis, and drinks and snacks.
The club’s virtual and experiential playground features a Lite Zilla wall and a ‘sketch aquarium,’ in which kids can demonstrate their creativity, play, and feed virtual turtles and fish that are uploaded to a life-size aquarium. There’s also a cinema for movie nights and performances. For the teens who enjoy gaming, this teens club might be just the thing to have them say yes to the trip.
Hot tip for 2023: Starting June 1st, 2023 the teen club will be complimentary to all travelers for the summer.
For the teen who loves to stargaze
Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection | Meadow of Dan, VA Located on 12,000 acres in the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, this property is a year-round mountain retreat that provides a one-of-a-kind experience. There are many accommodation types, but we thought you’d want to know about the remote treehouse suites perched high above the valley! Activities include a list of outdoor adventures from horseback riding to ATV tours and beyond. The resort features a championship golf course weaving through the forests and valleys, an exceptional culinary program with three distinct restaurants, a full-service spa, and a fitness center with an indoor/outdoor swimming pool. The highlight for your stargazing teen is an observatory with top-of-the-line telescopes operated by a local astronomer who leads stargazing experiences each night.
For teens who like aquariums and Bass Pro Shops
Big Cypress Lodge | Memphis, TN At Big Cypress Lodge, you can explore the 535,000-square-foot Bass Pro Shops amidst 100-foot tall Cypress trees and two floors of immersive retail space. Teens can check out the resort’s aquarium holding over 600,000 gallons and 36 fish varieties native to Tennessee. Stop by daily to enjoy live fish feedings by Bass Pro staff. The Fishbowl at The Pyramid offers an underwater bowling adventure where they bowl with the feeling of being in an aquarium. For the teens who are feeling brave, you can step onto the country’s tallest free-standing elevator and explore the 28-story Sky High Ride & Observation Deck.
From parades to car shows to concerts and picnics—let 2023 be THE July 4th to remember
No summer is complete without a proper Fourth of July celebration! This year July 4th the Bay Area is ready to celebrate with parades, concerts, and fireworks all up and down the Bay Area. Whether you join a festive celebration or head to the beach or a splash pad to cool down in, make sure to include ice cream … lots of it!
San Francisco 4th of July Events
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Golden Gate Bandshell Independence Day Concert Independence Day performance includes Shenandoah, American Overture, Copeland’s Hoe-Down from Rodeo (known popularly as “the beef song”), Salute to American Jazz, and an Armed Forces medley. Event details
Pier 39 The pier celebrates Independence Day with an entire day of fun for the whole family including exhibits, BBQ, walking tours and live music on the Western side of the pier. Event details
Hornblower Cruises Spend an unforgettable evening on the water with spectacular front-row seats for the fireworks show. Choose from the dinner cruise or a brunch daytime cruise for the most memorable Fourth yet! Event details
East Bay 4th of July Events
City of Bothell
July 4th Celebration on the USS Potomac Climb aboard FDR’s “floating White House” for a cruise around the Bay. Leaving from Jack London Sq, this three hour cruise will include a narrated history lesson while you take on the sights from the water. Event details
Concord Independence Day Parade Celebrate Family, Community, and Business while joining in a 5k run, pancake breakfast and parade all before watching the fireworks in Concord!Event details
Pleasant Hill 4th of July Celebration The party is an all-day event starting with a 5k followed by a parade, festival in the park and capping it all off with fireworks. Event details
The Hornet Museum’s 4th of July
The event features a flyover from the Memorial Squadron, two no-host bars, Food Truck Mafia, DJ Samoa Boy, the Swinging Blue Stars and more! The museum will close in time to allow you to get to your favorite fireworks location. Event details
Waterways Homeport
Fourth of July Concert, San Ramon
Bring those dancing shoes! The Boys of Summer will be providing entertainment as you celebrate San Ramon's 40th anniversaryEvent details
Fremont Fourth of July Parade and Flyover Share what “Happiness is...” and join the community of Fremont in celebrating the 4th of July! The parade begins with a Flyover by the Commemorative Air Force and the Beech Boys. Event details
Alameda 4th of July Parade Alameda hosts one of the longest parades in the country, 3.3 miles to be exact! This beloved hometown celebration starts off with a race so you can run the route first before enjoying the parade. Dress in your patriotic red, white and blues and stay for the parade after.Event details
Independence Day at Meek Mansion Meek opens its doors for a July 4th celebration. Live music by The Blue Bottle Band, mansion tours, outdoor activities and crafts for families will all be on hand to welcome you back. Note the event is on July 1.Event details
Pleasanton Community Concert The band is ready to ring in the Fourth in this free community event at Lions Wayside Park so pack a picnic and make a day of it! Mon.,Event details
Woodside Junior Rodeo & 4th of July BBQ The entire family will love the rodeo and western family activities that includes pony rides, petting zoo, mechanical bull and 4th of July Bull Riding. Event details
Ol’ Fashioned 4th of July Parade and Festival, Half Moon Bay The parade starts at 12 pm, transforming the charming downtown along Main Street into a pulsating Coastsider take on a mini-Mardi Gras style celebration. Event details
July 4th Summer Festival and Chili Cook-Off Bring the whole family out to the park for live music, food trucks, games and activities for kids and a Chili Cook-Off!Event details
Redwood City’s July 4th Parade, Festival and Fireworks One of the largest parades in Northern California this parade has entries from all over the state. Stay for the festival’s art and crafts booth, battle of the bands and kids zone. Also, check out the chalk festival all weekend long and cap off the celebration with a fireworks spectacular.Event details
Foster City 4th of July Pancake Breakfast and BBQ We love this event because in addition to the usual July 4th festivities with food, music and fireworks, a dog parade means all furry friends can join in on the fun, too!Event details
Millbrae Beats, Brew & Vine Concert Millbrae always serves up an exciting, boot-stomping concert on Fourth of July and this year will be no exception so get ready to boogie! Event details
Los Altos Hills Independence Day Parade Gather at the Town Hall for the Red, White and Blue march to Bullis Gardner school where refreshing beverages and juicy watermelon await. Event details
Shoreline Lake Fireworks Viewing from the Water Reserve a pedalboat, rowboat, canoe, or kayak with friends and family to have the best view of the Shoreline Amphitheatre fireworks show. You can also set up your picnic blanket in the park if you prefer to watch on land. Event details
Santa Cruz Firecracker 1k/5k/10k Why not kick off the Fourth with a footrace? This race has distances for everyone so get ready to run the streets of Santa Cruz in celebration of Independence Day.Event details
Mountain View Fireworks Spectacular, Shoreline Amphitheater Accompanied by the San Francisco Symphony, this July 4th celebration is the one you don’t want to miss! The doors of the amphitheater open early for games and family activities so make an evening out of it. Free and discounted tickets are available for Mountain View residents.Event details
Rose, White, and Blue Party Parade and Festival, San Jose This historic community celebration brings together the San José and the greater Bay Area community in celebration of diversity, public spirit, and our floral and agricultural heritage.Event details
Milpitas July 4th Red, White & Boom Concert by Sacred Fire Band with kids activities, including climbing wall, game truck, RC cars and bounce houses. Event details
4th of July All-City Swim and Picnic, Santa Clara Central Park will be the center of all the hubbub with kids cooling off in the pool, games, food and live entertainment.Event details
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Saratoga July 4th Celebrations This annual, old-fashioned family celebration of Independence Day is back! Enjoy the patriotic concert by the McCartysville volunteer band and music by the youth chorus. Free popsicles and flags for all the kids!Event details
Morgan Hill Freedom Festival The all-day event will include a family street dance, freedom fun run, parade, car cruise n’ show and end with spectacular fireworks. Bring the family and stay for the entire day! Event details
Independence Day Celebration, Cupertino The De Anza Optimist Club will host their annual pancake breakfast event at the Quinlan Center starting at 7:30 AM followed by flag raising, a parade and concert at Memorial Park and fireworks in the evening.Event details
Scotts Valley Fourth of July Celebration Join in the celebration with a parade followed by a dramatic flyover brought to you by Little Tampico.Event details
4th of July Brothers and Sisters Yacht Race Tiburon Yacht Club invites you to participate in or spectate the yacht race. After the race, the yacht club will be open with a roaring BBQ to welcome all. Note the event takes place July 1, 2023Event details
July 4th Festival & Parade, Corte Madera-Larkspur Kick off the Fourth with a parade featuring several incredible bands followed by a full-day festival with live music, food, arts and crafts, and childrens’ activities.Event details
Sausalito July 4th Parade Catch a parade followed by a picnic, live music, and parade for a full day of festivities.Event details
Novato’s 4th of July Breakfast and Parade One of the Bay Area’s largest parades boasts a contingent of vintage military vehicles you won’t find anywhere else.Event details
July 4th Picnic and Drone Show, Benicia Start the day with a parade and picnic and end it with a drone show! "From America’s Got Talent to July 3rd in Benicia Gene Pedrotti was looking for the “wow!” factor to help celebrate Pedrotti Ace Hardware’s 100th anniversary during Benicia’s Independence Day Weekend". July 3rdEvent details Drone Show and Parade
Danville 4th of July Parade Join the Kiwanis club as they partner with the city of Danville for a parade while celebrating local Olympians.Event details
American Canyon 4th of July Celebration Celebrate America’s birthday with a concert in the park, parade and finish the day off with one of the best firework shows in the North Bay.Event details
Sonoma’s Hometown 4th of July Celebration Partnering with the Volunteer Firefighter Association, this year’s fabulous July 4th party starts with a parade, moves on to a festival and ends with a fireworks show in the ultimate July 4th celebration.Event details
Calistoga 4th of July Festivities This 100 plus year old parade has returned. Starting at 11:00 am along Lincoln Avenue, cheer on floats, dancers, horses, and more as they travel through town showcasing their creativity and patriotic spirit. Event details
Kenwood July Fourth Celebration Start the day with a pancake breakfast and silent auction, hop in a footrace then enjoy a parade followed by festivities and BBQ in the perfect July 4th party.Event details
Additional reporting by Christine Lai & Kate Loweth
Celebrate your independence (from paying full price)
The 4th of July always feels like it’s officially summer (even though that technically happened a few weeks ago). Of course, there’s food, friends, and fireworks, plus the annual tradition of reading everyone’s complaints about neighborhood firecrackers on Nextdoor. But aside from celebrating with your favorite people, it’s also the perfect weekend to shop major 4th of July sales. Shopping is not only a great excuse to get out of the heat for a little while, but these 4th of July sales are seriously good. We’ve also gone ahead and listed them all in alphabetical order, so if you’re looking for your favorite brands, scroll on!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Cue the fireworks—it’s the season for red, white, and blue!
Get into the patriotic spirit by getting crafty with the kids. We’ve gathered up a bunch of easy, festive Fourth of July crafts that will give your Independence Day a little extra oomph. They’re super simple and you probably have a lot of stuff on hand already. From DIY noisemakers to star-spangled slime, and even 4th of July crafts for toddlers, scroll down to see them all!
A sweet and simple way to celebrate the Fourth of July. Kids can paint them in advance and hide them around your neighborhood for their friends to find.
One of the best use of pipe cleaners we’ve seen in a while, this is another easy and fun project to add to your list of Fourth of July crafts for kids!
Your kids will love the creative freedom of this Fourth of July craft and you’ll love the easy clean up. They can use the Q-tip to make fireworks with dots, lines, swirls, or anything they come up with.
This coffee filter craft is a simple and fun Fourth of July craft for your kids! Simply have them draw their firework design on the coffee filter, cut the edges, and spritz with water.
Gather up cups and rubber bands and in minutes you’ll be watching a fire-free backyard rocket-launch contest. We love that this is an interactive, fun activity that you can do before darkness falls. Check out the easy-peasy way to make your own rocket launchers at KiwiCo’s blog.
Expecting a crowd this Fourth of July? This delicious lollipop topiary dreamed up by Gluesticks is an easy, kid-friendly centerpiece sure to make any party pop. Don’t be surprised if they sample a few of the supplies as they work!
We love this paper chain from A Pumpkin and a Princess because it’s so easy to make with the little ones. Drape this 4th of July craft over your mantle or table for an extra festive touch.
Let freedom ring with these firecracker noisemakers. The project comes together in less than five minutes and is sure to have your whole crew celebrating in style. Grab a metal can, wrap it in a patriotic pattern from Paging Supermom, then get ready for serious noise.
America’s gal comes to life with this patriotic Fourth of July craft from Buggy and Buddy. Drama kings and queens will love getting the chance to dress up as the Statue of Liberty and parade around with a crown and torch.
This fun Fourth of July craft from Make and Takes will have everyone begging to sit at the kids' table. Leftover paper plates make the perfect canvas for this after-dinner activity.
Forgo the craft store and instead scavenge materials for this eco-friendly project directly from your recycling bin. Using basic tools and a little craft paint, Carissa at Creative Green Living transformed tin cans into a festive and functional wind chime for the backyard.
Maria of Kinder Craze created this awesome project to get her kindergarten class into the stars-and-stripes spirit. Your kids will love layering the red, white, and blue tissue paper to create their very own “stained glass” window, and this colorful Fourth of July craft doubles as great window décor for your celebration.
While the ’80s kid in us still mourns for real-deal sparklers (the fiery kind), the 21st-century parent in us is totally relieved that it’s no longer acceptable to send your kids out with fire sticks. That said, we’re thrilled to get our sparkler fix with a super cool craft like this sparkless sparkler from Merriment Design. Break out the chopsticks, ribbon, and party garland, then craft your way to the coolest, safest sparkler around.
We love a craft that does double duty, and these cute cupcake liner flowers from Fireflies and Mudpies do just that. They would make a really fun centerpiece for any backyard BBQ, and the kids will love that their Fourth of July crafts are taking center stage.
We’re trying so hard not to say “baby, you’re a firework” right now.
Unbelievably, the 4th of July is right around the corner. Arguably the most “dress up the whole family” holiday, the 4th means red, white, and blue have been popping up everywhere since May because we moms can’t get enough of the patriotic family fashion. Of course, as much as we love it, the summer is already busy enough without doing shopping for coordinating ‘fits. We took care of that for you. Or, actually, these favorite brands of ours took care of it. Check out these festive 4th of July outfits to make Independence Day 2023 one for the books.
Gerber Childrenswear
The original Onesie from baby experts Gerber Childrenswear is the perfect choice for making sure even your tiniest firecrackers get to be part of the fun. Check out the glow up the Onesie got with their new interlock knit fabric that’s softer and super stretchy, and their Essentials Collection lets you personalize them if you’re a DIY fan. Add decals, embroidery, or just leave them as-is in versatile solids that you can mix and match. They even come in multipacks at seriously great prices (we all know you can never have too many Onesies).
From PJ’s to swimsuits and everything in between, Carter’s has you covered. That includes their 4th of July Collection—bodysuits, coordinating sets, graphics, shoes, and dresses—all in adorable mix-and-match options that your little ones will want to wear even after the last firework has popped. Available in styles for babies, toddlers, little kids, and big kids.
Not only does The Children’s Place offer such cute kiddo clothes, shoes, and accessories for the 4th; they even have matching looks for the whole family. Whether you go with matching t-shirts, coordinating 4th of July outfits, or mix and match from their whole collection, you’ll find something for everyone.
You already know Zulily has pretty much everything, and they always knock it out of the park for holidays. We’re especially loving their graphics this year, but there’s so much to choose from for the whole family. Oh, and you don’t want to miss their patriotic home decor, too.
The party-ready styles of Chubbies are now available in Dad & Me options. Pick from cute polos, shorts, and swim trunks, then pair them with dad’s choices. Chubbies knows how to celebrate.
If you’re into coastal vibes, you’re probably already a Janie and Jack fan. They’re masters at breezy, classic goodies for every season, and their 4th of July outfits are no exception. And don’t leave out the accessories; check out the socks, hats, headbands, and more to pull their Instagram-ready looks together.
Nothing says 4th of July like a backyard BBQ, and Monica + Andy knows it. Grill-themed dresses, tees, and bodysuits are so precious, or you can go traditional with red, white, and blue striped PJ’s. The best part? There are tees, dresses, and pajamas available for mom and dad, too.
Our favorite pajamas from Hanna Andersson are here with a bang, and the best part? There’s something for the whole family. They’re so comfortable and last forever, so if you haven’t gotten a set yet, they’ll change your life. Of course, you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss out on Hanna’s kiddo clothes, too.
You can’t go wrong shopping at Gymboree for basics and holidays, so it’s no surprise their 4th of July Collection is just as sweet as ever. Plaids, stripes, polkadots, and patriotic puppies are just the beginning. And of course, they didn’t skip on the family matching for the entire crew.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Show off your patriotic pride with playful food creations that are deceptively simple
The 4th of July is a day of parades, fireworks, and lots of celebrating with friends and family. Make the holiday extra special by whipping up a few festive appetizers, snacks, and some creative dessert ideas, too. From red, white, and blue dips to wow-worthy cookies and cakes, we’ve gathered up a bunch of red, white, and blue recipes to make your day next-level amazing. For the kids, check out these 4th of July crafts that’ll keep them busy while you prep.
These frozen berry muffins are a great way to use up that fruit sitting in the freezer. This tasty recipe is so simple, you’ll be enjoying the 4th of July in no time.
Perfect for a hot holiday, these adorable mini frozen yogurt bites have plenty of healthy fruit too. With no added sugar (just vanilla Greek yogurt), and a crunchy nut bottom, make a batch ahead of time and pull out right before the fireworks go off. Get this red, white, and blue recipe from Katie Kick over at Good Life Eats.
Ready for a s’mores recipe that will knock your patriotic socks off? This simple idea from 3 Scoops of Sugar, which is full of strawberries, bananas, and blueberries, will give a new twist to your s’more expectations! It’s extra festive and easy to pull off with your handy dandy skillet.
For an adorable dessert that won’t require you to turn on the oven, you’ve got to make these push-pop cakes from Love from the Oven. With some store-bought pound cake and colorful frosting, this 4th of July recipe will come together in no time.
Get inspired by The Kitchen Prep to make a festive cheese plate for your holiday bash. It’s easy to customize to fit your family’s tastes and makes a delicious appetizer before your barbecued feast.
Get the kiddos involved in making these fun chocolate-covered pretzels from Beyond the Chicken Coop. They’ll love decorating each one with a splash of sprinkles.
We’re obsessed with this dip idea from The Creative Bite—the cutest appetizer ever! Pair blue corn chips with a garlic parmesan dip and cherry tomatoes, and you’ve got a flag-inspired appetizer that your whole crew will love.
These cookies from Tuxedo Cats and Coffee are everything we want from a patriotic dessert: easy, delicious, and pretty. They’re made using cake mix, so you don’t have to be a baking expert to pull off this one.
We’re gaga for this uber-creative cake. It’s colorful, fruitful, and doesn’t require any fancy cake pans—really! Now that’s what we call a show-stopping red, white, and blue recipe. Find out how to carve your own country over at Jacks & Kate.
Looking for a red, white, and blue recipe that’s vegan, low-calorie, gluten-free, and totally wow-worthy? You’re in luck because this watermelon cake fits the red, white, and blue recipe bill! Learn how to make your own at Abbey’s Kitchen.
Serve up the breakfast of champions with this perfect patriotic pancake idea. Think kid-sized pancake stacks, fresh berries, and a healthy dollop of whip cream. Yum! Get the full scoop at Modern Parents Messy Kids.
We love how this fruit tart is equal parts sweet and creamy. (Psst! The crust uses coconut oil, which adds an extra dose of delicious flavor.) Visit Homemade Food Junkie for the full recipe details.
We're awarding major points to this drink for having a patriotic presentation AND being completely kid-friendly. Now that's something we can all toast to! Get the whole how-to at The Merry Thought.
This sweet, red, white, and blue recipe couldn't be easier (hint: the prep time is only 15 minutes!). You can even make the brownies from a store-bought mix. Get the full lowdown on this jaw-dropping idea at Spicy Southern Kitchen.
Give the traditional popsicle a patriotic makeover! This idea has granita-like fruit layers and a rich cheesecake center you won't be able to resist. For the full rundown, visit The Midnight Baker.
Do as we say: put down the melon baller. These star bites burst with flavor and will be a hit at your BBQ. Bonus: it's easy to get your kids involved in making this treat. Hop on over to Weelicious for easy instructions.
These treats are a little salty, a little sweet, and great to munch on between backyard games. We dare you to stop at one. Thanks to Poca Cosa for sharing these awesome patriotic treats.
Give your standard caprese salad a blueberry upgrade. Remember: if you're short on time before your big BBQ you can always prep the ingredients in advance. Get the full red, white, and blue recipe over at Shared Appetite.
Major props to Food Pusher for this easy patriotic kettle corn. Simply pop your popcorn like you normally would and add food coloring. Voila! You've got yourself a bag of red, white, and blue bite-sized treats.
Summer games can build up quite a thirst! This patriotic punch uses cranberry juice, your favorite blue-colored sports drink, sparkling water (or a diet clear soda), and ice. Check out the red, white, and blue recipe (and quench everyone's thirst) at Big Bear's Wife.
Here’s the lowdown on this oh-so-pretty trifle: it’s got angel food cake squares, fresh blueberries and a fresh cherry sauce that’s easy to make. And if you want to top it all off with a dollop of freshly whipped cream? Well, we wouldn’t blame you at all. Boulder Locavore has the full trifle scoop, so click on over ASAP.
Potato salad is pretty much a requirement at any summer holiday picnic, but why not give this classic dish its own patriotic twist? With the help of some colorful spuds and a drizzle of olive oil, you can whip this up in no time. Get inspired to make your own over at Proud Italian Cook.
These delicious popsicles from Pass the Plants are not only an easy red, white, and blue recipe to make, but they're also dairy free. Beth from Pass the Plants shares some great tips for getting them just right!
One of our fave summer fruits gets to be the "star" of the show with these fun patriotic sparklers! Leave it to Emily from One Lovely Life to come up with this fantastic way to serve fruit at your BBQ.
No matter where you live, vacation vibes are in the air this time of year. Once the weather gets warmer, we start dreaming of sand, surf, and sun—combined with a few days of relaxing. We know it’s not always possible to jet off to a tropical destination, but that won’t stop us from embracing as much tropical energy as possible. Whether or not you have big vacation plans, a weekend getaway coming up, an overnight staycation on the books, or you’re planning a backyard BBQ, the new collections from Gymboree are adorable and ready for anything.
As soon as these styles dropped, we were giddy. The prints are so much fun; there are a bunch of family matching vacation outfit options, and you and the crew will want to wear them over and over again through the warm months. Seriously, wait until you see the flamingo swimsuit. We can’t get enough of these vacation-inspired looks, and we’re pretty sure you won’t be able to, either. But hurry! It wouldn’t surprise us if these styles got snatched up fast!
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Indoor or out, there are plenty of activities to keep your family busy in the new year!
A new year and a new month are just around the corner. If you’ve resolved to find amazing new adventures with your kids, we’ve got ideas—one for each day of the month, in fact. In between your snowy sledding adventures and your busy back-to-school schedules, try one of these family activities that’s anything but boring.
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1. Celebrate the New Year at a National Park (psst…entrance fees are waived on January 16 because it is Martin Luther King Jr. Day). These popular parks have the outdoor bells and whistles families love or try a little-known park for a change of scenery.
2. Looking for other ways to celebrate 2023’s arrival with the kids? We’ve got family friendly ideas you can do at home.
3. Ditch your family’s New Year’s resolutions for new routines, instead. It’s a great way for kids (and parents!) to set and keep goals all year long.
4. Break out winter activity sheets for a quick family activity during the witching hour.
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5. Get your kiddos ready to head back to the classroom after a long winter break with memory games they’ll love.
18. Whether you’ve got enough snow on the ground to build a whole snow family (or you’re just dreaming of winter’s favorite frozen stuff), these snowman snacks will make kids smile.
Whether you’re looking for an explosive fireworks display or a bit of easy-peasy patriotism, Atlanta’s serving up some seriously great options for family-friendly Fourth of July festivities this year. We love the fireworks displays for older kids and don’t forget to whip up some red, white and blue food for your festivities.
Celebrate the United States of America with America’s team! This Fourth of July Weekend, catch an epic firework display after the Braves game on Monday night. The Braves will take on the Cardinals to celebrate America’s birthday.
Light up the skies over Roswell again on July 4 at Roswell Area Park for live music, entertainment, and food trucks. Bring your chairs and blankets to spread out at one of several fireworks viewing areas throughout the park. Fireworks will start at sunset.
The Fourth of July will go off with a bang as the Sandy Springs Stars & Stripes Fireworks Celebration lights the sky. The celebration will take place on Monday, July 4, 2022. Electric Avenue, called America’s Greatest 80s Tribute Band, will rock the City Green with the MTV Experience, beginning at 7:30 pm and fireworks lighting the night sky starting at 9:30 pm.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race returns on July 4, 2022. The 53rd edition of the annual 10-kilometer race takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022. Runners and walkers worldwide will also have the opportunity to participate in the race virtually. If you’re not participating, don’t miss the chance to cheer on the racers. You’re sure to see costumes, lots of crowd participation, and plenty of patriotism.
The city of Marietta’s Fourth in the Park celebration begins Monday, July 4, at 10 am. It includes a parade, free live concerts, museum tours, an arts and crafts show, food, carnival games and a fireworks finale (around 9:30 pm).
The City of Decatur will hold its annual fireworks display, with a few modifications, on Monday, July 4, 2022. The fireworks display will begin at dark, approximately 9 pm, and lasts about 20 minutes. They will launch from the top of the Dekalb Courthouse Parking Deck. The streets in the fallout zone will be closed to pedestrians and traffic.
The City of Kennesaw’s pre-Independence Day celebration of freedom, music, and fireworks is one of the biggest and best in North Georgia, with two stages of live music, festive street entertainment, food vendors, and plenty of activities for the kids. And, of course, you don’t want to miss the kid’s parade at noon. Expect a brilliant fireworks finale at 9:30 pm.
The celebration begins early and lasts well into the night at Callaway’s annual July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party at Robin Lake Beach. Highlights include beach games, live music, and their annual Fireworks Extravaganza. Overnight packages are available, as are day trip admission options.
Get ready to enjoy a day full of award-winning adventure with great family attractions and live entertainment, then stay into the evening to experience the Lasershow Spectacular presented by the Georgia Office of Highway Safety, followed by the same patriotic fireworks finale each night of the celebration, running July 1-5, 2022. Reservations for the Lasershow Spectacular are required.
The Fourth of July in Cartersville kicks off on July 4 with a parade at 9 am and ends with fireworks at 9 pm. Leading up to the fireworks, families can get in on the festivities at Dellinger Park starting at 3 pm. The festivities include children’s activities, concerts and arts and crafts.
Celebrate our great nation with your family under the stars watching a brilliant display of fireworks at dusk at Wills Park. Families are encouraged to bring a picnic and spend time together outdoors. Fireworks will begin at dusk.
