Fun and Safe Tips for Celebrating this 4th of July

Summer is our favorite time of year here at Pinwhirls. With the 4^th of July just a couple of weeks away, we thought it would be a great time to share some backyard party and cookout tips. As always, we'd love for you to share your tips and ideas (or just tell us what you've got planned this 4^th of July) with us in the comments.

Fireworks: Make Your Celebration Fun for All Ages

Adults and children alike love the fun of fireworks. Sparklers are always a great hit, but sometimes little ones are scared of these fireworks or they're just too young to handle them on their own. For the younger kids, we recommend handing out summer toys like our Pinwhirls pinwheels. The twirling motion will be captivating, entertaining, and safe. Plus the kids can take them home when the party is over.

Be Weather-Wise

July can really be hot and muggy. Beat the heat at your party, cookout or picnic by seeking out shaded locations for your event. Or you can create your own shade with tents, awnings, or patio umbrellas. 

Bring plenty of sunscreen. If you're going to be poolside this July 4^th, monitor how long you're in the water. Many sunscreens need to be reapplied in order to offer full protection.

Remember Food Safety

The extreme heat can make your favorite foods spoil quickly. Make sure your cookout or picnic foods are safe to eat. If you need to brush up on your food safety tips, visit FoodSafety.gov. Right now, they're highlighting Barbecue Basics.

If you're looking for recipe ideas, we recommend stopping by the Real Simple website and checking out their Cooler-Friendly Picnic Recipes. They've compiled a list of 14 yummy recipes that are great for picnics or cookouts.

So what are your plans for the 4^th of July holiday weekend?

Our Favorite Memorial Day Recipes

Memorial Day is almost here, and it's time to finalize the menu for your backyard cookout or family picnic. We've scoured the internet looking for some deliciously summery foods that you can share with family and friends this Memorial Day. So if you've been putting off trying to plan a menu or select the perfect item to take and share, check out these yummy recipes for a little inspiration!


Cherry Orange Salad


This delicious mix of greens and fruit comes from Elana's Pantry. It's light and summery and complements just about any menu. Plus it's also a gluten-free salad.


Watermelon, Feta and Arugula Salad


This recipe comes from the Recessonista, so it's tasty and cheap! We thought the ingredients seemed a little unorthodox, but it's a dish that doubles as a conversation starter. How refreshing is that?


Patriotic Taco Salad


Memorial Day originally started out as a way to remember those who served in the Civil War and has turned into a day to remember our veterans, soldiers, and loved ones lost. So patriotic dishes are certainly appropriate on this special weekend. In lieu of the typical patriotic berries and cream dessert, try out this new American flag-inspired dish from Taste of Home.


Barbecue Spiced Chicken


No Memorial Day menu is completed without a barbecue dish. This tasty barbecue chicken recipe comes from Razzle Dazzle Recipes and features the savory seasonings of onion, garlic, dry mustard, Tabasco and brown sugar. So light up the grill for a one-of-a-kind BBQ treat!

Don't forget to check out Pinwhirls.com for tablescape ideas and fun, festive yard pinwheels!