Fun, Family-Friendly Ideas for a Positively Patriotic Summer

(StatePoint) Whether it’s the warm weather, our country’s birthday or just because school’s out -- summer is the perfect time to celebrate. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, families have the opportunity to head outdoors to enjoy the spirited season with all- American food, fireworks and fun. Here are some familyfriendly ideas for a positively patriotic summer.

Picnics and Parties

What’s more festive than gathering friends and family for a summer picnic in your backyard or a local park? A summer soiree, complete with food, décor and entertainment, can be done simply. Starting with the menu, in-season fruits from your local famer’s market, like strawberries and blueberries, add patriotic pizazz and fresh flavors to picnicstyle snacks. And who can resist American barbecue favorites like hot dogs and hamburgers to round out a delicious day? No party is complete without decorations. Instead of store-bought décor, tap into kids’ creativity and keep them busy with handmade crafts. Make a bold banner for the backyard, a wreath for the front door, a playful pinwheel or a celebratory top hat for extra flare. Duck Tape is the perfect medium for this type of crafting. It’s available in over 250 colors and designs, including red, white and blue, as well as its U.S. Flag print and other patriotic designs. Once guests have arrived, keep them entertained with pre-planned games and activities. Turn on the sprinklers to cool down; or have kids decorate bikes, trikes or scooters for an impromptu parade around the neighborhood.

Family-Friendly Festivals

Want to enjoy the experience without being a host? Find a festival instead. There are many options around the country -- but for a truly starstudded celebration, check out this year’s Americana-themed 13th Annual Avon Heritage Duck Tape Festival during Father’s Day weekend.

Located in Avon, Ohio, this special event features a variety of opportunities to celebrate your pride for the USA -- from a one-of-a-kind parade and life-sized patriotic Duck Tape sculptures to hands-on arts and crafts. There’s also an opportunity to participate in a special fashion show where you can show off your crafting talents, and pride, by modeling outfits made from the sticky stuff. Of course, there are also all-American food favorites, rides, family-friendly games, live entertainment and more -- for a stars and stripes spectacle the whole family can enjoy.

Historical Happenings

School may be out for the summer, but that doesn’t mean learning has to stop. Embrace our nation’s heritage by visiting locations with patriotic significance. It’s a great opportunity to educate yourself, and the kids, on the importance of our nation’s beginnings. Check with your local historical society for nearby historical sites, museums, memorial and monuments, or pack up the car and take a patriotic road trip. Spend some time in our nation’s capital to pay respects to fallen soldiers at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, tour Yorktown Battlefield at Colonial National Historical Park in Virginia, or honor Lady Liberty in New York City. Wherever you land, it’s clear that our country has a rich history of which to be proud.

From patriotic parties and family-friendly festivals to memorable, meaningful moments, this summer, show off your love for the red, white and blue.