Here’s How To Celebrate The 4th Of July In Ireland – American Style

If you’ve ever felt a bit of FOMO during the 4th of July in Ireland, you’re definitely not alone. 

Being the America’s biggest secular holiday, the masses go mental over there in celebrating the birth of their nation. 

This holiday has become quite widespread across the world, so if you’re an American away for home (or you just wish you were), you can still join in on the buzzing atmosphere of Independence Day.

There are a numerous events and parties in Ireland that are celebrating the 4th, or you can set one up in your very own back yard. 

Toast with your neighbours across the Atlantic, and celebrate like an American by doing these things… 

1. Dress patriotically 

It’s almost a sin in America to not wear red, white and blue on the 4th of July. Basically anything is acceptable, and the bigger the better. 

Hang a flag from your house roof, car or work building to get in the celebratory mood this weekend. 

Ladies – paint ye nails with stripes and stars, and lads – make a pair of jorts (jean shorts) and slip on an American flag muscle shirt.

Think: home of the brave, people.

2. Have an outdoor BBQ

Find a sizable ‘backyard’ (or garden, if you will), and cook up some serious meat with the lads. 

We’re talking full-on hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob, apple pie, watermelon, cole slaw, American flag cakes and cookies, and chips – loaaaads of American style chips. 

Don’t hold back on this one – eat like an American! 

3. Light sparklers on the beach

Fireworks are traditional, but since you have to follow the law of the land, stick with sparklers. These are quite popular in America on the 4th, especially the little ones. 

It’s good fun to twirl your own shapes, phrases and designs with flames – there’s no better place than to light up the sky near the water when the sun is setting. 

4. Attend this 4th of July festival 

Here’s an event where Americans and Dubliners alike can come together in celebration of Independence Day. 

On the grounds of Donnybrook Stadium you’ll experience a bit of American football, flag football, real-time cheerleaders, an outdoor cinema, a full bar and a Tailgate Food Village.

Come hungry, so you can get a taste of traditional American themed dishes.

G’wan, all you have to do is show up.

5. Turn up with American music

It’s no 4th of July without some down-home American country music, as well as those classic patriotic tunes. 

I recommend a bit of Toby Keith, specifically his hits ‘American Soldier‘ and ‘Courtesy Of The Red White and Blue‘.

Also, ‘Proud To Be An American’ by Lee Greenwood – they’d defo be blasting this on the radio in America all weekend. 

Chanting ‘USA’ over and over again would be extremely appropriate as well. 

6. Drink American beer

Strictly Coors Light, Bud Light, PBR and Budweiser – they even scream red, white and blue. 

If you’re feeling reeeally American, punch a hole in the bottom of the can and ‘shotgun’ a beer. 

Legend. 

7. Celebrate in Killarney 

This brilliant town in Kerry hosts an annual 4th of July party all through the streets. 

There will be a massive parade at 8.00pm, a BBQ to the public, Wild West Shows, a Top Gun outdoor screening at Killarney House and Gardens and more. 

Check out the event here. 

8. Eat a hot dog with your dog

Genuinely. Maybe even feed your dog your hot dog.

It’s normal. 

9. Watch sports

We all know Americans are crazy about their sports – specifically baseball and football. 

Put your feet up during the after-lunch hour and get your head in the game, folks. Sometimes they’re actually entertaining. 

10. Host a campfire

This is your classic event to top off the holiday. Bring your leftover hot dogs, cans of Bud Light, and maybe even a guitar or two to have a sing around the fire. 

You could even practice reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, if you’re feeling super spirited. 

And of course – don’t forget the s’mores.

Now that’s freedom. 

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