When it comes to summer decor, many are drawn to all things red, white, & blue. Why? Our country’s biggest celebration comes midway through the summer as neighborhoods are filled with the sounds and scents of traditional cookouts. While July 4th marks the anniversary of our nation’s official break from Great Britain — a brave move that put our Declaration of Independence on paper — today’s focus is all about friendly gatherings filled with favorite foods, games, and fireworks.

While that red, white, and blue decor may typically point to the July 4th holiday, it’s actually a multi-purpose color scheme that is also relevant to Memorial Day and Labor Day. As homeowners select summer decor, a colorful tribute to our nation’s beginnings is the perfect place to start. Even better? Those decorations can carry homes from mid-May to mid-September!

Why Red, White, and Blue? While most know that red, white, and blue represent the American Flag, some aren’t aware of the choice behind its design. 

Red symbolizes hardiness and valor

Blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice

White points to purity and innocence

The alternating stripes on the flag are a nod to the original 13 Colonies–home to the patriots behind our Declaration of Independence. 

Each star on the flag represents a state in the union. The stars have changed the most since that original flag was created as we have continued to grow as a nation. 

Did you know that there have been nearly thirty updated versions of the American Flag?

The flag is the most prevalent of the traditional decorations whether using small flags to line walkways, hanging a patriotic wreath, or adding bunting to porch railings. Flag decor lives in a different category than a proper American Flag which requires owners to handle it respectfully and with honor. 

There are many ways to celebrate the spirit of summer!

Table Settings: Mix and match place settings to create a festive table! Purchase red plates, blue cups, and white napkins for an instant transformation. Many home goods stores are stocked with tablecloths or centerpieces with a star-spangled theme.

Inspired Lighting: String lights have become quite common throughout the last several years as homeowners add a twinkling vibe to their background. For the summer, why not add some colored lights to those traditional clear bulbs? A few strings of red and blue instantly turn the night sky soft to celebration!

Fit for Fireworks: Fireworks may be the star of the summer, but there is no need to wait until your town’s July 4th showing. There are many ways to showcase fireworks at home! Add a firework-themed cover to throw pillows, adorn the mantel with a firecracker garland, or select a variety of sparkler-inspired yard stakes to light pathways.

Are you feeling crafty? Why not create your own Fourth of July decorations? Some quick crafting is a fun activity for the whole family and a terrific way to share something with new neighbors. 

Mason Jar Lanterns is a simple do-it-yourself project that requires very little time. Pick up a few clear jars, red, white, & blue glass paint, and get to work! Add either sand or pebbles to the bottom to add stability. Top it off with a reusable tea light for an adorable centerpiece or decoration for the front porch. 

Painted Rocks are popping up everywhere as a fun surprise for walkers or hikers. While these rocks traditionally offer a message of kindness, their summer counterparts often host words like “Freedom,” “Celebrate!” or “USA.”

Create a One-of-a-Kind Door Hanger! Pick up a round piece of wood from the craft store and have each family member stamp it with a red, white, or blue handprint. Once dry, attach a big, beautiful bow before hanging it as a welcoming touch to your front door. 

If you’re hosting a cook-out this summer, dessert or drinks can easily handle the Fourth of July theme. 

Desserts: Strawberries, blueberries, and whipped cream are the perfect trio to turn a plain cake into a festive dessert. For cupcakes, split a batch of vanilla mix into three parts then add red and blue food coloring to two parts before baking. Mix icing with patriotic sprinkles to top off the look! 

Drinks: Beverages with a twist are also an easy-themed addition to any party. Whether going simple, by adding cherry or blueberry garnishes, or thinking big with red, white, and blue-hued punches, guests will appreciate the nod to the summer spirit. 

This summer, residents of Ken Harvey Homes will be celebrating from all over the Triangle area in neighborhoods from Raleigh to Wake Forest or Clayton to Zebulon. With new builds on gorgeous homesites, new homeowners can easily host friends and family from gorgeous front patios to spacious backyards. Independence Day is the gem in the crown of summer celebrations and Ken Harvey Homes’ communities are already sparkling as homeowners roll out the red, white, and blue!