Summer in Texas would seem incomplete without some sort of patriotic, Fourth of July celebration. Despite the heat and the sun, locals often spend much of the day partaking in outdoor activities, from parades, to concerts, to fireworks, or even the backyard cookout. Whether the table is inside with the refreshingly cool air conditioner, or located under the pergola on the back patio, there are plenty of options for sprucing up your table for any Fourth of July entertaining.
When it comes to tablescapes for a patriotic holiday, most would agree that the color theme must be red, white, and blue. However, there is so much you can do with those American (and Texan) hues! This year, think outside the box and consider adding some of the following elements to your dining (or patio) table décor.
Pinwheels
Whether you make your own or purchase them at the store, these are one of the most summery additions to any party décor! Whether matte or glitter, pinwheels can be found in abundance in the summer months and plenty feature red, white, and blue as well as stars and stripes, particularly near the holidays. Plus, kids in attendance can take them home after dinner!
Flowers and Vases
Flowers in vases are always an easy way to make a table more elegant and welcoming, while tying the décor in with your chosen theme. In this case, red and white flowers in blue vases or mason jars are a simple way to add beauty and freshness to the party design. Adding a flag, glittery streamer, or pinwheel can make them more playful. Consider using less traditional vases as well: hollowed out watermelons filled with water may not preserve the flowers for long, but they perfectly compliment any patriotic shindig during a Texas summer!
Picnic Plaid
Perfect for any patriotic meal is the traditional picnic plaid! From tablecloths to napkins, this checked design is already available in a blue or red variety. Use them underneath a centerpiece or tablescape, or simply to adorn the table top.
Stars
When in doubt, use stars, stars, and more stars. A common patriotic symbol for both Texas and America, stars can be incorporated from the smallest details like confetti or place cards, to large paper options hanging above. After all, here in Texas, “the stars at night are big and bright!”
Flags
While mini-flags make a great addition to floral arrangements and greenery, you can expand the theme to plates, napkins, cups, hats, place cards, and chair décor featuring the American flag. And do not forget to stick one or two into any patriotic dessert you serve!
Paper Lanterns
Paper lanterns are perfect for summer as there is a lack of rain and they are easy to assemble and hang. Consider hanging the orbs, in patriotic colors, above your table. Purchasing various sizes will help add visual interest. Affixed to the backs of chairs, the flat versions are perfect to snazzy up the seating!
Wooden Letters
Whether it is the letters U, S, and A, the number 4, or the shape of a star, simple, painted wooden letters are perfect for a Fourth of July dining or buffet table. Simply purchase them in the colors desired or paint them a vibrant red, white, and blue!
Candles
Candles can provide light, scent, and pops of color, if you choose to use blue or red varieties. For a more traditional, uniform look, use all one color in all one size. For more interest, select various sizes. While candles can help pull off a patriotic theme and add ambiance, they can also be practical; citronella candles can help ward off pesky summer bugs at an outdoor gathering.
