how to celebrate the semiquincentennial with joy

I am never one to turn down a celebration, but this year, July 4th feels like a strange one to mark. It is the 250th birthday of a country that is, in a lot of ways, still figuring out how to live up to its own promises. There is a lot to feel uneasy about as we approach this milestone, and I am not going to pretend otherwise.

But there is also an opportunity to lean into the parts worth celebrating. This year I am choosing to focus on the ideals this country was founded on, the promise of a better 250 years ahead, and the chance to gather with friends and family, eat delicious BBQ, watch epic fireworks, and celebrate with my community. Will you join me?

Here are some things you can do to make this year more meaningful:

Invite more people to your party. Our country is at its best when it's inclusive. Challenge yourself: invite a new neighbor, the quiet woman from your pilates class, or the friend you have not seen in two years.

Level up your BBQ with vintage style. Lean into an old school traditional Americana vibe and reclaim that energy for the people who deserve it.

Make or listen to a great playlist. Music sets the tone for everything. Put something on that makes people want to stay a little longer.

Incorporate water however you can. It is going to be a hot one. Refillable drink pitchers, water balloons, sprinklers, and more. The water fight is definitely happening this year.

Lean into the joy. Joy is resistance. Break out the sparklers, linger over dessert, and let the day be exactly what it is supposed to be.

However you spend the day, I hope it is full of good food, good people, and a lot of joy.

xo, Catherine