Now that phrases like “mask up” and “six feet apart” have (basically) left our lexicon, we couldn’t think of a better way to commemorate our post-pandemic freedom than by going above and beyond for this year’s Fourth of July party. Sure, you may have upgraded your backyard with a getaway garden or gazebo, but those won’t keep the energy up through to the fireworks at night. That’s why we’ve gathered ten random but useful items that’ll take your celebration to the next level and have everyone feeling ready to paaarty.
10 Random-But-Useful Items to Level Up Your Fourth of July Party
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1. Firework Led Lights
Everyone loves fireworks. But it’s not until you’re surrounded by a group of toddlers in full-blown hysterics that you think, hmm maybe this was a bad idea? Hence, why we love how this four-pack set is designed in a starburst shape that mimics the look of exploding fireworks—without the noise. The waterproof lights are powered by three AAA batteries, and they can be operated wirelessly with the set’s included remote.
2. 2-in-1 Watermelon Fork Slicer
Everyone loves watermelon, but there’s nothing that hits quite like fresh watermelon *chefs kiss*. This two-in-one watermelon slicer cuts watermelon into perfect cubes, so you don’t have to deal with a drippy table. Just push the tool into the watermelon, and the slices come out automatically. The best part? You can use the fork attachment to easily scoop up each little cube. No muss, no fuss.
3. Nostalgia Electric Hawaiian Snow Cone Maker
Snow cones for the kids, frozen margs for the adults…what more could you ask for? This machine uses regular ice from your freezer to whip up the perfect snow cone, slushy or daiquiri. Just place ice cubes into the top of the machine, plug it in, and lock the lid into place and start shaving. The manufacturer offers a few flavored syrup options for you to test out, and we recommend that you start with some red, white and blue for a festive touch.
4. Artoid Mode Watercolor Flowers Poppy Eucalyptus Table Runner
What would the Fourth be without some patriotic red, white and blue? If you’re not into balloons or brightly colored napkins from Party City, this coastal-grandmother-style table runner is the perfect way to incorporate some festive decor without sacrificing ~chicness~.
5. Livin’ Well Bug Zapper
I think we can all agree: Mosquitos are the enemy of any summertime hangout. One minute you’re partying with your friends, and the next, you can’t stop scratching your ankles. Luckily, this outdoor light is the answer to your problem. Not only does this weatherproof outdoor light keep the bugs away, but its 6-foot cord lets you hang the device wherever you want, and the 4,000-volt battery can last up to 8,000 hours (according to the manufacturer).
6. Solo Stove Smokeless Fire Pit
We all love making s’mores and roasting marshmallows (particularly with Stuffed Puffs, our latest obsession), but it kinda kills the experience when you’re bombarded by smoke from the outdoor firepit. Enter: The Solo Stove Bonfire, an easy-to-use fire pit that is sleek, stylish and smokeless. Jillian Quint, PureWow’s Editor-in-chief, gave this 93 out of 100 points in a PureWow review and says, “the result is a nearly smokeless burn, such that campfire sitters experience the warmth of a traditional fire, without any of the smoke-in-your-eyes effects.”
7. Horava Floating Pool Lights With Timer Remote
The fun doesn’t have to stop when the sun goes down when you have this set of LED pool balls on hand. Perfect for a nighttime pool party, this pack of two inflatable balls can transition between 16 colors and has three flash modes that flip on with an included remote control. Plus, they’re designed with a weighted bottom, so they won’t roll or blow away if you decide to display them as festive decor instead.
8. Winegrasp Wine Glass Holders (set Of 2)
Small but mighty, this pack of two smart clips is the perfect gadget to have when you’re entertaining. Guests can simply clip this on a table or chair to have a handy way to store their drinks without any spills.
9. Outdoor Mini Projector With 100-inch Screen
Skipping the fireworks altogether? No problem. This powerful, mini projector comes with a 100-inch screen that’s perfect for streaming movies, TV and fireworks shows if your landlord doesn’t allow the real deal. Not to mention that the projector was designed for outdoor use, and it comes fully equipped with an HDMI cord and two USB cables that are totally compatible with your iPhone.
10. Alpine Corporation Waterproof Bluetooth Rock Speaker
If you’ve spent hours curating your party playlist, you’re going to want to make sure that everyone can hear it. These wireless, waterproof, solar-powered speakers are great for blasting music all night long. The battery works up to 12 hours on a full charge and its 50-foot sound range is guaranteed to fill your space with music. Plus, it’s designed to look like a rock, so you won’t need to worry about throwing off your backyard’s aesthetic with a chunky black speaker.