Many of the cities around Central Texas have nixed their parades, but thankfully, Belton, TX (which hosts the state’s longest-running parade) is hosting a virtual parade, so you don’t have to miss out. Residents, businesses and local organizations have all submitted videos of their parade entries, and the compilation of these videos will air at 10 a.m. on KCEN on July 4. And, just think, now you don’t have to worry about sunscreen.
And if you want to give the kids something to do while they’re waiting for the parade to begin or afterwards, encourage them to create their own parade with homemade drums, cardboard floats and “costumes.”
Fireworks
Blasts of colorful fireworks are synonymous with the Fourth of July. But most of the area’s fireworks displays have been cancelled. So, what to do instead? You can purchase some sparklers to light up when the sun sets or you can create some edible sparklers with large pretzel sticks and white chocolate drizzle and red and blue M&Ms.
If you can’t get together with friends or go to the community pool, then come up with some fun water activities to do with your children. Go old school and set up a sprinkler or two for the kids to run through, create some swimming pool challenges in your own backyard, or rent an inflatable water slide.
At least we can still eat like it’s Independence Day. Gas up the grill (or plug in the George Foreman) and cook some burgers and veggie kabobs. You could even light a bonfire or a fire pit and roast hot dogs and marshmallows.
And if it’s authentic barbecue you seek for your Fourth of July, then try ordering take out from a local restaurant.
Many times, Fourth of July festivities include food trucks, street food and treats you can only get at a big event. Try creating your own food truck experience by making your own patriotic popsicles, street tacos or funnel cakes. You could even enlist your children to decorate large cardboard boxes to create faux food trucks. Have them take turns writing down “orders” and delivering the food to a backyard table.
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Jessa is the Editor-in-Chief of Hooray for Family and the mom of three energetic children. She has a BA in Mass Communication/Journalism from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and is a long-time resident of Central Texas. When she isn't writing and editing, she enjoys playing board games with her kids, teaching Sunday school and channeling her creativity into craft projects.
