So I say this every year – the 4th of July has, yet again, creeped up on us!! Like, whaaaaat?! I will never understand how one minute it’s Father’s Day and the next we are here celebrating America’s bday! But nevertheless, I am not complaining, I loveeee the 4th and all the parties that go along with it!

With that said, while this year might look a little / a lot different for many of us, that doesn’t mean that our kids should suffer!!! Even though fireworks are a no-go and town parades have been cancelled, we can still make it fun for them!

What’s one of the ways to do that, you ask? Start the tradition of making patriotic fare with the kids to bring to your 4th of July plans!! Whether that entails a neighborhood party, a family BBQ, or just hanging in the backyard with friends, your kids will be excited to help + everyone you’re with will appreciate your American foodie pride!

Below, I’m sharing 10 fun red, white and blue food ideas that your kids will LOVE to make with you!!!! Think simple, impressive, and tasty appetizers and desserts that are fit for a socially distanced outdoor party! Check them out now!!

1. American Flag S’mores Dip

My brother’s fam makes this dip every year and I can tell you first hand, it is seriously EPIC. {+ who doesn’t love s’mores?!}

2. Red White and Blue Ice Cream Sandwich Pops

I love this seriously easy “recipe” that would be perfect for your younger babes who are enamored by all the sprinkles!!

3. Firecracker Red, White & Blue Popcorn

OMG! As if popcorn isn’t addicting already, this patriotic sweet version will take your addictions to a whole new level!

4. Individual Red, White and Blue Trifles

These trifles are sure to be a hit for all ages!! And seriously delicious too! YUM!!!

5. Patriotic Layered Taco Dip

Taco dips are made for a 4th of July BBQ – am I right or am I right?!?

6. Red, White and Blue Pretzel Bites

I envision your kids getting so very excited to unwrap all the Hershey’s Hugs candies! Also, there’s no better combo than sweet and salty which will make these a total hit amongst the crowd!

7. Red, White and Blue No Churn Ice Cream

Say hello to your new favorite summer ice cream recipe!!!!!

8. Red, White and Blue Bark

Okay, this bark is EVERYTHING!!! And the kids will loveeee making it and then eating it!!

9. Red, White, and Blue Red Velvet Cake Bars

Red velvet cake bars topped with M&M’s… say no more! {Except for maybe: WHOA!}

10. American Flag Fruit Platter

My suggestion – make your own white chocolate dipped pretzels with your kids first {because let’s be honest, that’s an activity in itself! No need to buy them!!!} and then show them this flag pic to see how well they can recreate it!!

11. 4th of July Sugar Cookie Bars

Levi and I made these yesterday! We followed the recipe to a T and it was super easy!! He loved making them together and everyone in the fam has been LOVING eating them! {A little too much lollllll}

All* patriotic food photos + recipes were found via Pinterest
*All but the featured top image and bottom image which were taken by ME after Levi and I made them!

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As you can see, so many of these patriotic foods are served individually but if they can’t be, make sure to have a large serving utensil with each dish aside bowls or plates for guests to serve themselves. I also recommend putting out antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizer!! Times have changed and while we need to be careful, there are simple adjustments to ensure we’re all safe!!

PS Follow me on Instagram for all the mom tips and tricks!

And be sure to PIN this post so you have it saved for next year!! If you’re going to make this is a new family tradition, you should probably make sure you have this list at your fingertips for years to come!! Feel free to also email it to yourself or to your friends and fam! Use the pink buttons directly below this post to assist!! Xox

For more 4th of July content from years past, click here.
{Warning: many of these posts are from BACK IN THE DAY and the photos are realllllly bad! Now you know + don’t say I didn’t warn you!!}