How I host 100+ people at my house.
What are some of our staples and changes we will make going forward.
Buying: This J.Crew sale is insane! I scored over $700 worth of clothes for just $176. Don’t forget to enter code ‘EXTRA’ at checkout for the additional discount.
Reading: Caught Up by Navessa Allen. If you're into spicy reads, this one’s for you. Fair warning, there’s a full-page of trigger warning, so it's definitely not for everyone.
Making: I made a Kale Caesar inspired by Half Baked Harvest for the 4th of July, and it was a total hit. Kale is the ultimate hosting superfood, it doesn’t get soggy! I kept it simple with baked chickpeas, parmesan, the dressing, and kale. Assembled it all the night before and just tossed it right before serving. 10/10 recommendation.
When we moved into our home, one unexpected bonus sealed the deal for me, we were right on the 4th of July parade route. Instantly, I pictured hosting a big celebration, with friends and family gathered in our yard, laughing, eating, and enjoying the day together.
We just wrapped up our third annual parade party, and with each one I find myself learning, tweaking, and dreaming up ways to make next year even better.
We live in the historic district of our town, and nothing captures the spirit of the 4th of July quite like it. The week leading up to the holiday is full of energy: there’s a community carnival with live music, and neighbors are out and about soaking it all in.
Then, on the 4th, the parade begins, a full two hours of marching bands, floats, kids on decorated bikes, and candy tossed into the crowd. It’s nostalgic, joyful, and deeply American in the best way. Every year I fall more in love with this tradition.
Parade Party Staples
This is an outdoor event - rain or shine. I make this very clear up front. With the number of guests (mostly kids), there’s no way I could host everyone indoors nor would I want to!
Everyone is welcome. Friends of friends, neighbors walking by, parade-goers, we keep it open and festive.
There’s always a fun drink station. Over the years we’ve done a Mimosa Bar, a Bloody Mary Bar, and a Spritz Bar. I provide the basics, and guests usually bring extra Prosecco or mixers to keep the drinks flowing.
No desserts needed. The parade provides more than enough sugar, candy rains from the sky and the kids are in heaven.
Easy food only. Our menu is simple and crowd-friendly: chicago style hot dogs, brats with caramelized onions, baked beans, chips, fruit, and something green, usually a kale salad or caprese skewers.
Booze is BYO. While we set up a drink station and even added a keg this year, we ask guests to bring whatever they like to drink. It’s the only way to keep up with the variety of preferences (and the size of the crowd).
One adult drinking game. Flip cup has become a favorite. It breaks the ice and gets everyone laughing, nothing brings a crowd together faster.
Simple but festive décor. Each year I add a little more to our stash: flags, bunting, fresh flowers, tablecloths, custom cups, and balloons. Just enough to make it feel special.
Changes for Next Year
Renting tables and chairs. I think the time has come. While our backyard isn’t huge, the kids are getting older and don’t need as much open space to run around. I’d rather everyone have a place to sit and enjoy the food and conversation comfortably.
Adding a water feature. Whether it’s a misting fan, a sprinkler, or even a stash of water soakers, I want to include something simple to help everyone cool down. July heat is no joke!
Adjusting the menu. A Chicago-style hot dog bar is officially on the list. I borrowed a friend’s hot dog machine this year and it was a total hit. It kept food hot and let people eat on their own schedule. I’ll still offer a few sides and options, but keeping it even more streamlined is the goal.
More high-top tables. I borrowed a few this year, and they made such a difference! Adults gathered around them easily, drinks stayed off the ground, and it encouraged more conversation.
Each year we build on what we’ve learned, and it just keeps getting better. Already counting down to next year.
Hot tip: If you choose just one annual party to go all-in on, whether it’s the 4th of July, Halloween, Oktoberfest, or something else, you’ll find your rhythm. You collect the decor, fine-tune the setup, and figure out what works. Before you know it, the whole thing becomes easier, more predictable, and way more fun to host.
Cheers!
-Ashley