Our Editor's Favorite 4th of July Decorations for 2023

4th of july decorating ideas
40 4th of July Decorating Ideas to Buy or MakeKevin Trimmer - Getty Images


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With Independence Day nearly a month away, it's time to start thinking about 4th of July decorating ideas, so we hunted around the Internet for on-theme decor you can either buy or make yourself. So if you're good with a glue gun, you may want to put your credit card away and craft your own festive decorations. Otherwise, peep our list of ready-made alternatives that you can have delivered ready to display.

So if you are hosting the soirée this year, you'll need some inspiration. Luckily, we have 40 ideas to kick-start your decorating journey. From a plush throw pillow with scalloped edges and red, white, and blue stripes to a delicious-smelling bouquet of fresh blooms, there are a lot of good options to consider. Trust us; these decorations are so adorable you'll set the perfect scene for a festive fête.

The best part? With Memorial Day freshly over, a lot of our top picks are still on sale! So there's no need to spend more than you're willing on decorations you'll display for only a few days. Don't wait too long, though. These deals won't be on offer for long. Not to mention, they probably won't be on the digital shelves for long, either! We're not the only ones gearing up for the Fourth! As far as we're concerned, it's never too early to outfit your home in red, white, and blue.

Scalloped Pillow

If you're looking for a way to add a festive touch to your space without leaning too much into the theme, go with a pair of scalloped-edge throw pillows donning a red, white, and blue pattern. If your living area is neutral enough, you can leave these out well past summer.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.anthropologie.com%2Fanthroliving%2Fshop%2Fmatilda-goad-co-scalloped-pillow&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.housebeautiful.com%2Fentertaining%2Fholidays-celebrations%2Fg1828%2Ffourth-of-july-decorations%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Scalloped Pillow </p><p>$68.00</p><p>anthropologie.com</p><span class="copyright">Anthropologie</span>

Healing Tears Bouquet

The easiest way to add a touch of on-theme decor is with a fresh bouquet that smells as beautiful as it looks. If you're hosting a Fourth of July cookout, consider buying a few of these and using them as centerpieces.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.1800flowers.com%2Fsympathy-healing-tears-red-white-blue-148689&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.housebeautiful.com%2Fentertaining%2Fholidays-celebrations%2Fg1828%2Ffourth-of-july-decorations%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Healing Tears Bouquet</p><p>$49.99</p><p>1800flowers.com</p><span class="copyright">1-800Flowers</span>

Hausse Reflective American Flag Pinwheels

Adorn your front lawn or walkway with rows of sparkly pinwheels to lead guests into your party. This pack includes 10. These may be a little cliche, but they get the celebratory point across!

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BPY6YHM7?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10057.g.1828%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Hausse Reflective American Flag Pinwheels</p><p>$15.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Amazon</span>

Top Hat Vase

For only a few more days, MacKenzie-Childs is having a sweeping summer sale, so if you're looking for maximalist decor for the Fourth of July, this adorable vase shaped like a top hat will do the trick. Fill it with flowers, miniature flags, or anything else that feels charming and festive.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mackenzie-childs.com%2Ftop-hat-vase%2F11830-1240.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.housebeautiful.com%2Fentertaining%2Fholidays-celebrations%2Fg1828%2Ffourth-of-july-decorations%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Top Hat Vase</p><p>$84.00</p><p>mackenzie-childs.com</p><span class="copyright">MacKenzie-Childs</span>

Decorate Your Flowers

Low-effort and high-reward, these sweet flower baskets are a sophisticated alternative to crafts that may take hours to assemble. All you need is a basket, fresh hydrangeas, and a few miniature American flags.

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4th of july decorating ideas
Sincerely Marie Designs

Upgrade the Fence

If you have a bunch of mini flags from past Independence Day celebrations, don't throw them out! Instead, remove the poles, sew (or glue) the flags together, and use them as a garland around your fence, front door, or porch.

4th of july decorating ideas
Sincerely Marie Designs

Make Your Own Flag

jenny reimold

https://jennyreimold.com/blog-...

4th of july decorating ideas
Evin Krehbiel

Stars and Stripes Pennant Banner

However, if you're short on time, go ahead and buy the garland pre-made. This one, which is on sale for 50% off at Crate & Barrel, is a good go-to for anyone without a few hours to spare.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.crateandbarrel.com%2Fstars-and-stripes-pennant-banner%2Fs512650&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.housebeautiful.com%2Fentertaining%2Fholidays-celebrations%2Fg1828%2Ffourth-of-july-decorations%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Stars and Stripes Pennant Banner</p><p>$9.97</p><p>crateandbarrel.com</p><span class="copyright">Crate & Barrel</span>

Keep It Simple

Another good idea that's easy to execute in a matter of minutes? This glass container decor from White and Woodgrain. All you need is a glass jar or pitcher, a few American flags, and the stems of your choice.

4th of july decorating ideas
White and Woodgrain

Get Crafty With Mason Jars

If you have a few Mason jars leftover from the previous decoration, fill them with sand, paste a double-sided American flat against the wall, and plop a tiny candle on the bottom. Just make sure the candle features a faux flame because the real thing could be a fire hazard.

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4th of july decorating ideas
Thirty Decor Chick

400 LED Patriotic Firework Lights

If you live in an area where real fireworks are off-limits, opt for the LED version instead. This set of two operates on a timer with eight light modes that can make them flash and fade.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXS5L48Y?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10057.g.1828%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>400 LED Patriotic Firework Lights</p><p>$25.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Amazon</span>

Liberty Outdoor Burlap Collection Wreath

Greet guests with an intricately folded burlap version of Old Glory. This 16-inch wreath is sturdy enough to hang indoors or out.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.potterybarn.com%2Fproducts%2Ffaux-liberty-wreath&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.housebeautiful.com%2Fentertaining%2Fholidays-celebrations%2Fg1828%2Ffourth-of-july-decorations%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Liberty Outdoor Burlap Collection Wreath</p><p>$33.50</p><p>potterybarn.com</p><span class="copyright">Pottery Barn</span>

Stars & Stripes Circle Flag

Decorate in true colonial fashion using a circular flag studded with stars and stripes. It could look crisp and modern too if you pair it with other clean-lined decorations.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.potterybarn.com%2Fproducts%2Fstars-and-stripes-circle-flag-mp%2F%3FcatalogId%3D84%26sku%3D7030815%26cm_ven%3DPLA%26cm_cat%3DGoogle%26cm_pla%3DPillows%2B%2526%2BDecor%2B%253E%2BDecorative%2BObjects%26region_id%3D669950%26cm_ite%3D7030815_14546951676%26gclid%3DCj0KCQjwu-KiBhCsARIsAPztUF0Kfv1QnbZlsnSl8GUk1hQJfZS7EzFYBBeacw4G2VJCEVA6oFp2UK4aAhPHEALw_wcB&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.housebeautiful.com%2Fentertaining%2Fholidays-celebrations%2Fg1828%2Ffourth-of-july-decorations%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Stars & Stripes Circle Flag</p><p>$69.00</p><p>Pottery Barn</p><span class="copyright">Pottery Barn</span>

Arrange Backyard Flowers

Fresh-cut flowers can get expensive, fast, especially when you need enough for a large tablescape. Try this centerpiece idea instead: Fill galvanized vases with low-key wildflowers in vivid red, white, and blue hues, filling the holes with leafy greens, as Sugar & Charm did here. Even better if you can forage around and find them in your own backyard.

4th of july decorating ideas
Zan Passante

Deck Out Your Snacks

To elevate your Fourth of July festivities, take note of this pretty red, white, and blue spread from Cheetah Is the New Black. Some fresh berries, a charcuterie board, a floral cake, and bottles of rosé against a garden backdrop will set the scene for something a little dressier.

4th of july decorating ideas
Cheetah Is the New Black

American Flag Paper Fans

You can't have too many paper fans, especially when they come in this many patriotic patterns. Arrange them over a drinks or desert station for maximum effect.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D6LY6TX?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10057.g.1828%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>American Flag Paper Fans</p><p>$14.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Amazon</span>

Outdoor Net Food Cover

A picnic in the park is an affordable, fun way to gather your friends for the Fourth of July, and you can keep it festive with just a few functional accessories. Enter: this outdoor net table cover. It's summery, stylish, and highly effective at keeping those pesky pests off your masterpiece of a picnic spread.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Ffood52.com%2Fshop%2Fproducts%2F1173-outdoor-net-food-cover&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.housebeautiful.com%2Fentertaining%2Fholidays-celebrations%2Fg1828%2Ffourth-of-july-decorations%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Outdoor Net Food Cover</p><p>$28.00</p><p>food52.com</p><span class="copyright">Food52</span>

Americana Wreath

Subtle and pretty, hang this Fourth of July-themed wreath on your front door for a festive welcome.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.williams-sonoma.com%2Fproducts%2Famericana-wreath%2F&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.housebeautiful.com%2Fentertaining%2Fholidays-celebrations%2Fg1828%2Ffourth-of-july-decorations%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Americana Wreath</p><p>$109.95</p><p>williams-sonoma.com</p><span class="copyright">Williams Sonoma</span>

Hang Some Flags

Tom Scherer spruced up some empty walls in a stairwell by hanging a series of American flags. Try this in a guest bathroom, foyer, hallway, or really any small space that guests will be using during your shindig.

4th of july decorating ideas
William Abranowicz

Star-Spangled Biodegradable Straws

Not only are these straws totally festive for the Fourth, they're also biodegradable—ideal for replacing eco-unfriendly plastic.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M0DV8O8?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10057.g.1828%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Star-Spangled Biodegradable Straws</p><p>$10.95</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Amazon</span>

Hang a Red, White, and Blue Quilt

Take note of this entryway designed by Anthony Baratta if you need some inspiration for understated, timeless, and approachable Americana decor. The color schemes and prints are perfect for a Fourth of July mood without being overtly theme-y. If you don't have an heirloom quilt of your own, try hanging one like this.

4th of july decorating ideas
James Merrell

Red, White, and Blue Place Settings

Although it was originally designed for Presidents' Day, this red, white, and blue tablescape offers a sophisticated take on the America the Beautiful theme.

4th of july decorating ideas
Abby Jiu

Repaint Outdoor Furniture

You'll probably want to celebrate outside, so make sure your patio sets a festive scene. This porch designed by Tom Scherer is full of elevated decorating ideas. If you don't already have some red outdoor cushions ready to swap in, just add a couple of throw pillows or paint an old piece of furniture red.

4th of july decorating ideas
Francesco Lagnese

Fly a Mini Flag

Keep things simple and add a small American flag to your setup for a nod to the holiday without spending too much or going over-the-top with decorations, as Anthony Barrata did here on this gondola.

4th of july decorating ideas
James Merrell

Frame a Flag

An American flag above the Arts & Crafts bedframe in this room designed by Alexandra Angle reads as modern art thanks to the frame, surrounding decor, and prominent placement.

4th of july decorating ideas
Lucas Allen

Patriotic Photo Booth Props

Who doesn't love a good selfie? These photo booth props ensure your guests will be taking pictures all night long. Now all you need is a good hashtag.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BW38VBR?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10057.g.1828%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Patriotic Photo Booth Props</p><p>$9.72</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Amazon</span>

Nautical Snack Picks

Even finger food deserves some flair. Adorn hors d'oeuvres with these printable flags, and the appetizers will kick off the party in style. Get the tutorial at Hostess With the Mostess.

4th of july decorating ideas
Hostess With the Mostess

Use a Fun Tablecloth

Throw a cute red-and-white tablecloth over your outdoor dining table and then add some blue via seat cushions. Then bring in some greenery with a blue pitcher to hold flowers, as Libby Cameron did here.

4th of july decorating ideas
James Merrell

Light Some Candles

Whether it's a pool deck or a dock, set the scene for romance in your party space with large outdoor candles, blue pillows, a picnic setup, and throw blankets for nighttime firework-viewing comfort. We're digging the large hurricanes on this deck designed by Andrea Goldman.

4th of july decorating ideas
Michael Robinson

Spruce Up the Guest Room

This bedroom designed by Cameron Libby is ready for the Fourth of July all year long. If you'll be hosting houseguests for the long weekend, spruce it up with a festive bedskirt or throw pillows and fresh flowers.

4th of july decorating ideas
James Merrell

Festive Kite Banner

These red-white-and-blue mini kites evoke the perfect sunny day, no matter the weekend weather forecast. Get the tutorial at Brit + Co.

4th of july decorating ideas
Brit + Co

Florals & Fruits

Want to look patriotic without spending a ton of money? All you need is red, white, and blue flowers, fruits, and cocktails! See more at Sugar and Charm.

4th of july decorating ideas
Courtesy of Sugar and Charm

Lollipop Bouquet

Remember when being sent to the kids table was a bad thing? This sugar-sweet centerpiece will never wilt, and it'll score instant points with any little ones (and kids at heart) in attendance. Get the tutorial at Gluesticks.

4th of july decorating ideas
Gluesticks

Star String Lights

If you just can't get enough string lights, try these little star lights that shine in patriotic colors.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071ZYFDGJ?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10057.g.1828%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Star String Lights</p><p>$14.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Amazon</span>

Patriotic Bunting

Simple bunting in red, white, and blue will turn any porch into a Fourth of July celebration to remember.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.grandinroad.com%2Fpatriotic-swag-26-bunting-collection%2F26240&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.housebeautiful.com%2Fentertaining%2Fholidays-celebrations%2Fg1828%2Ffourth-of-july-decorations%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Patriotic Bunting</p><p>$52.12</p><p>grandinroad.com</p><span class="copyright">Grandin Road</span>

Festive 4th of July Party Favors

Add firecrackers and poppers to jars with red, white, and blue confetti. Top with a flag, and you've got party favors that double as decor. See more at Sugar and Charm.

4th of july decorating ideas
Courtesy of Sugar and Charm

Firecracker Floral Arrangements

This easy DIY will help you turn any bouquet of flowers into a firecracker. Most impressive party decor ever? Definitely. Get the tutorial at Sugar and Charm.

4th of july decorating ideas
Courtesy of Sugar and Charm

Firework Dessert Toppers

A no-bake dessert means less time in the kitchen and more fun decorating. Add ribbon and these printable cutouts for the perfect 3D pop. Get the tutorial at Anders Ruff.

4th of july decorating ideas
Anders Ruff

Bunting Banners

This metallic garland's shimmering finish is the perfect background for all your Instagrams, of course. Get the tutorial at Damask Love.

4th of july decorating ideas
Damask Love

Bold Pineapple Centerpiece

The summer's hottest fruit gets a spirited new look with paint and sparklers. Get the tutorial at Freutcake.

4th of july decorating ideas
Freutcake

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