How to Celebrate Independence Day in the UK (Yes, Really)

The Fourth of July. That one day a year when Americans let loose with fireworks, flag-themed everything, and more grilled meat than you’d think humanly possible.

Now, yes—we’re well aware that Independence Day is, technically, a celebration of the USA kicking us Brits to the curb in 1776. But let’s not dwell on that. Because whether you’re an American expat living on UK soil, or just someone who really loves burgers, Bruce Springsteen and blowing things up in the sky, the Fourth of July is the perfect excuse for a summer party.

And here at Epic Fireworks, we’re all in. Let’s get planning.

Why Celebrate Independence Day in the UK?

Because why not? Honestly, it’s:

• A good excuse to throw a party.

• Peak BBQ season.

• A chance to launch some epic fireworks without having to wait for Bonfire Night.

Plus, if you’re American and a bit homesick, a bit of red, white and blue in the back garden might be just what you need. And if you’re British? Let’s face it—you’re probably only in it for the ribs and rockets anyway. No judgement.

Step 1: Let’s Talk Fireworks (Obviously)

It wouldn’t be a proper Fourth of July bash without a jaw-dropping, retina-searing firework display. And while you could watch some grainy livestream from the States, it’s way more fun to do it yourself.

Firework Display Tips – Stars, Stripes and Sky-Bursts

Go for a classic American colour scheme with red, white and blue fireworks—easy to do with our selection of rockets, fountains and multi-shot barrages. Here's a quick formula for your backyard USA show:

• Start low and slow – small fountains or roman candles to warm up the crowd.

• Mid-show energy – add a few mines, whistling cakes or zippy rockets to keep it spicy.

• Big finish – get those heavyweight barrages and monster rockets out. The ones that rattle windows and get your neighbours peeking over the fence.

If you really want to make it sing, sync the display to a playlist of American anthems—think “Born in the USA” meets “Sweet Home Alabama” with a dash of Dolly. Trust us, it slaps.

Need help putting it together? Our DIY Display Packs come with firing guides, so you don’t have to wing it with a lighter and a prayer.

Step 2: Fire Up the BBQ Like a True Patriot

No American celebration is complete without a grill stacked like a meat tower. Here's the must-have BBQ munch you need to have on your Independence Day menu:

• Burgers – triple-stacked, cheese-loaded, served with smug satisfaction.

• Hot dogs – don’t skimp on toppings: chilli, cheese, crispy onions, mustard. Go big.

• Ribs & wings – sticky, messy, glorious.

• Sides – coleslaw, potato salad, mac 'n' cheese, corn on the cob… if you’re not waddling post-dinner, you’ve done it wrong.

• Desserts – brownies, s’mores, apple pie, red-white-blue cupcakes. Not essential… but also, totally essential.

If you’re hosting outdoors (which you should), have a gazebo or parasol ready to fight off British weather betrayal. Pack a cooler with drinks and set up a serving table with napkins, condiments and enough ketchup and American mustard to drown a small army.

Step 3: Decorate Like You Mean It

Turn your garden or flat into a mini USA with flags, bunting and tableware in full Yankee glory. You can pick up red, white and blue bits from most party shops, or just order online.

Easy July 4th decoration wins:

• Stars-and-stripes napkins, cups, and paper plates

• Balloons, streamers and fairy lights for when the sun goes down

• American flags (obviously)

• A cheeky Uncle Sam cardboard cut-out for selfies

Want a bit of fun? Set up a DIY photo booth with props like Statue of Liberty hats, cowboy gear, or Trump wigs (depending on how spicy you’re feeling).

Step 4: Get Stuck Into Some All-American Fun

Don’t just eat and explode things—get everyone involved in some proper party games.

Top activity ideas:

• Cornhole – that bean bag tossing game they all seem to play at tailgates.

• Three-legged races – it’s not American, but it is funny after a few drinks.

• Face painting – stars and stripes or bald eagles. The kids (and slightly tipsy adults) will love it.

• Independence Day quiz – put your mates to the test. “Which U.S. state isn’t actually a state?” (Answer: Washington D.C.)

Got space? Throw in a game of rounders and just pretend it’s baseball. Nobody will notice.

Step 5: Movie Night, American Style

As the sun sets and the BBQ embers die down, roll out the beanbags and deck chairs and pop on a classic American film. Here's our top picks:

• "Independence Day" – Will Smith + aliens + explosions. Yes.

• "The Patriot" – very on-theme. Very dramatic.

• "Forrest Gump" – iconic.

• "National Treasure" – it’s basically a Nicolas Cage history lesson.

• "The Sandlot" – nostalgic, baseball-y, wholesome.

Hook up a projector, hand out popcorn, and wrap up in blankets as you all digest 4,000 calories.

Make Your Independence Day Go Off With a Bang

So, whether you’re full-on celebrating liberty and freedom, or just using the Fourth of July as a brilliant excuse to throw a loud party—make it unforgettable with fireworks from Epic Fireworks.

We’re the UK’s biggest and best firework retailer, with a ridiculously huge selection of rockets, barrages, mines, fountains, loud fireworks, quiet fireworks and more to light up your garden like Times Square.

Not sure what to buy? Our DIY display packs take out the guesswork with a step-by-step firing order that’ll make you look like a pyro pro.

Shop fireworks for your 4th of July celebration now – and celebrate Independence Day the British way: outdoors, in questionable weather, with loud bangs and a full belly.

Freedom, fireworks and finger-licking food. What more could you want?