For me, boating and the Fourth of July go hand in hand. Growing up on Lake Michigan, I loved it when my dad would navigate our boat down the Black River channel and anchor just off the South Haven pier to watch the fireworks explode over the water. Now, I have children of my own. While they are still young enough to be enthralled with 4th of July fireworks, I want to build lasting memories celebrating Independence Day together. Here are few ways for you and your family to show your patriotism and create memorable boating times together.
1. Host a Dockside Barbeque
Photo © Logan Mock-Bunting / Getty Images
Invite friends and family to the marina or a lakeside park with a boat ramp. Ask them to bring a red, white, or blue side dish and throw some hotdogs and burgers on the grill. After everyone has feasted, these Patriotic Cupcakes will be sure to please any crowd.
2. Decorate Your Boat and Join a Boat Parade
Photo © Darren McCollester / Getty Images
Kids love to decorate just about anything. Purchase a few red, white and blue banners, crepe paper, and American flags and let them have a blast decorating the boat. If you want to get fancy, buy lights to illuminate your boat during the parade. No matter how you decide to decorate, the kids will sure to be filled with joy when their handywork is displayed for all to see during the boat parade.
3. Watch the Fireworks from Your Boat
After the boat parade, settle in with your family to watch the show in the sky. If your kids are young enough, put them in their pajamas and bring out special treats just for the occasion. Your kids will talk for years, or possibly decades, to come about their wonderful Fourth of July boating memories!4. Here are a few extra tips to stay safe this holiday:
- Don't boat while under the influence of alcohol.
- Make sure children under 12 are wearing life jackets.
- Stay patient. More people will be boating than you would normally have to deal with.
- Stay alert. Many boaters will be novices; take heed and watch for other boaters who may be intoxicated or unaware of the rules of the road.
