It’s going to be a sparkler-less Fourth of July in our neck of the woods. Thanks to triple-digit temperatures and extremely dry conditions, city officials have banned all fireworks, including my 7-year-old’s favorite sparklers. From what I gather by watching the news, similar scenarios are playing out throughout the United States. It’s simply too dangerous to let every Joe Blow and his pyro cousins set-off fireworks when the fire risk is dangerously high. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to celebrate America’s birthday without having to light colorful explosives. Check out these fun-filled, kid-friendly activities that will add some sparkle … Continue reading →

Colorado is burning. So is Utah and parts of Arizona. Some of the nation’s most destructive wildfires are putting a damper on Fourth of July festivities from coast-to-coast. Due to extremely hot and dry conditions, and the fear that other areas may go up in flames like Colorado and Utah, officials have banned the use of fireworks during Independence Day celebrations in nearly every state. If you live in an area where kids are not even allowed to light-up sparklers to commemorate the United States’ birthday, then infuse your Fourth of July parties with these fun activities that don’t include … Continue reading →

The scorching heat continues across the country, including here in the Midwest. In fact, our county has experienced such hot, humid and dry conditions the past few months that officials have banned fireworks. Yes, a fireworks ban leading up to and including the Fourth of July. Since we don’t want to end up like the poor folks in Colorado, who have lost so much due to a rash of destructive wildfires, we’re planning a festive Fourth minus the sparklers and other colorful explosives. Rather than celebrating Independence Day by lighting up, we’re planning a slew of kid-friendly outdoor activities, such … Continue reading →