Celebrating Independence Day in the UK with Fireworks and More

Independence Day, or the Fourth of July, is a major celebration in the United States, marking the country's declaration of independence from Britain in 1776.

Celebrating this holiday in the UK might seem a bit ironic, but it's a great excuse to enjoy some American-style festivities, including the obligatory Independence Day firework tradition.

Whether you're an American expat or just a fan of American culture, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the Fourth of July right here in the UK.

Let's dive into some ideas to make your Independence Day celebration a memorable one.

Hosting Your Own Fireworks Display

Putting on your own fireworks display can be the highlight of your Independence Day celebrations.

To capture the spirit of the Fourth of July, look for fireworks in the classic American colours of red, white, and blue. You can find fountains, rockets, barrages and more in these colours to create a diverse and patriotic show.

Start with smaller fountains to build anticipation then move on to small rockets, mines and roman candles. The grand finale should then include your big rockets and barrages in a combination of all three patriotic colours, filling the sky with hues that echo the American flag.

Plan to start your display after dark, or as local regulations allow, and coordinate the fireworks to build up to a grand finale, saving the most impressive fireworks for the end. Consider also syncing the display with your favourite American anthems or a playlist of classic rock and country hits. This will add an extra layer of Americana to the show.

For some inspiration here's New York's 4th of July Fireworks from 2023. The Macy's display is the biggest Independence Day Fireworks display in USA.

American-Themed BBQ and Food Ideas

No Independence Day celebration is complete without a BBQ. Embrace the American spirit with classic dishes like burgers, hot dogs, and ribs. Don't forget the sides: coleslaw, potato salad, and corn on the cob are must-haves. For a bit of variety, try grilling some marinated chicken wings or skewers with vegetables.

Keep things simple with easy-to-make recipes. Try making a batch of homemade burgers with all the fixings – cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles. For a fun twist, make hot dogs with different toppings like chili, cheese, or relish. If you’re feeling adventurous, bake some American-style desserts like brownies or a classic apple pie.

Setting Up a BBQ in the UK

The unpredictable British weather can be a challenge, so be prepared. Have a gazebo ready in case of rain, and consider setting up windbreaks if you’re in a breezy spot. Ensure your BBQ area is safe and has enough space for grilling and socialising. A good quality BBQ and plenty of fuel will keep the food coming, and don't forget to have a cooler or ice bucket stocked with plenty of cold drinks.

Decorating Your Space

Transform your space with decorations in red, white, and blue like balloons, tablecloths, napkins, and plates. Hang up bunting and banners featuring stars and stripes. You can also add some American flags to really go all out with the patriotic feel.

Fairy lights and lanterns can create a cosy evening feel. And you could also get some photo booth props like Uncle Sam hats and Statue of Liberty crowns to create some great shots for the 'gram.

Activities and Games

Bring some American sports into your celebration. Set up a game of touch football or baseball if you have the space. For something less active, cornhole (bean bag toss) is a popular American game that’s easy to play and fun for all ages. You could also organise a three-legged race or a sack race for a bit of traditional, outdoor fun.

For the little ones, you could set up a craft station where kids can make their own American flags or star-spangled hats. Face painting with red, white, and blue designs can also be a hit. For a quieter option, organise a scavenger hunt with patriotic-themed clues and small prizes.

You could also add a bit of educational fun with an Independence Day trivia quiz. Prepare questions about American history and culture, and see who knows the most about the Fourth of July.

Enjoy American Films and Music

Create a mini outdoor cinema and screen some classic American films. Movies like "Independence Day," "The Patriot," or "Forrest Gump" can set the right tone. For something family-friendly, consider "The Sandlot" or "National Treasure." Make sure you have plenty of seating and blankets to keep everyone warm and comfortable.

A playlist of American music including classics like Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton will also add to the American feel. 

Celebrating Independence Day in the UK

Celebrating Independence Day in the UK can be a fun and unique experience. From hosting a fireworks display to enjoying American-themed food and activities, there are plenty of ways to get into the spirit of the Fourth of July.

For the best fireworks for your party, look no further than Epic Fireworks, we're the UK’s leading firework retailer and offer the biggest range of fireworks you can buy at unbeatable prices. Explore our selection of rockets, barrages, loud fireworks, quiet fireworks, mines, fountains and so much more.

If you’re not sure what to choose, our ready-made DIY firework packs come with a comprehensive firing guide, taking the guesswork out of what to buy and how to fire them.

Explore our full range today to find everything you need to make your Independence Day celebration spectacular.