by Jessica Grant, Creative Director
 

The 4th of July is a day of celebration, barbecues, and dazzling fireworks displays. However, while humans revel in the spectacle, our furry friends can become frightened and anxious. Additionally (and maybe even more importantly), in many areas in California, setting off fireworks is illegal, or presents a serious fire hazard risk. Fear not, pet parents and concerned citizens! We've got a sizzling lineup of dog- and kid-friendly alternatives to fireworks that will keep the tail wagging and the festivities soaring!
 

Glow Sticks

Let There Be Glow! Who needs fireworks when you can create a glowing atmosphere with the power of glow sticks? Glow sticks are inexpensive and a massive crowd pleaser, especially for kids. Grab a bunch of these luminescent beauties and attach them to your dog's collar or leash for a whimsical light show during your evening stroll, or bend them into crowns, eyeglasses or jewelry for your whole family. You can also scatter them around your backyard or create a giant glow stick chain to create an enchanting atmosphere that's sure to captivate both two-legged and four-legged partygoers alike.
 

Sparklers and LED Fiber Optic "Sparklers"

Sparklers are a beloved part of traditional 4th of July celebrations, and maybe pups handle them pretty well, especially contrasted against full-on fireworks. However, for some dogs their crackling noises and bright flashes can cause them to panic a bit, and in extra dry areas even that small amount of flame can be a fire hazard. Enter LED fiber optic "sparklers"! These brilliant alternatives mimic the beauty of sparklers without the fire bit. They provide mesmerizing light displays that are both captivating and pet-friendly. So, grab a bunch, and let the glow unite your family and furry friends in a harmonious celebration.
 

Bonfire or Firepit

If you absolutely must have a fire (and it's legal for you to have one) may we recommend a good old fashioned bonfire or firepit? There really is something magical about fire; gathering around a cozy fire on a summer night, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows is always memorable. You can keep it dog and kid safe (or at least safer) with a self-contained firepit like this one from Biolite or this one from UCO. Just remember to prioritize safety by following local regulations and keeping a close eye on both little ones and furry friends. S'mores and tail wags all around!
 

Eco-Friendly Confetti

Edited thanks to reader (and park volunteer) Kathy K. Thanks Kathy!

Instead of using traditional confetti that's harmful to the environment, or even "biodegradable" confetti that takes ages to actually degrade, opt for the most eco-friendly alternative: make your own confetti using colorful leaves or flower petals! Get the kids involved in a confetti-making craft session using scissors or large-scale hold-punches, and let them shower the air with nature's own celebratory blessings. It's a win-win for everyone—environment, pups, kiddos, and smiling faces!
 

Balloon Confetti Poppers

Okay, this one does involve some loud sounds, but it might be worth it anyway! You'll need toilet paper rolls, balloons, tape, scissors and your eco-friendly confetti (or popcorn, or whatever else you can dream up that's light enough to be launched).

1. Knot a (non-blown up) balloon, and cut off the tip, stretching it over the toilet paper tube with the know centered on one end.
2. Decorate the toilet paper tube with all the patriotism you can muster up.
3. Use a cone of paper to fill the tube from the other side with about 3 tablespoons of confetti.
4. Holding it upward at an angle away from you, pull back the balloon knot and let fly!
    

Giant Bubbles

Giant bubbles are a fantastic way to mesmerize both kids and dogs with their iridescent magic. Mix up a bubble solution using dish soap and water, then grab a giant bubble wand or create your own using wire clothes hangers. Add some red and blue food coloring to the solution for an extra patriotic touch (be ready to take a garden hose to your house if needed). Let the enormous bubbles float through the air, reflecting the vibrant colors of the 4th of July. Plus, every dog loves biting at bubbles, almost as much as they live biting at sprinklers. It's a win-win.
 

Movie Night Under the Stars

Take your 4th of July celebration to cinematic heights by hosting an outdoor movie night! Set up a projector and screen in your backyard, and cozy up with outdoor blankets and pillows. To add a patriotic twist, choose a classic like "Independence Day", "Top Gun" or even "Forrest Gump" as your feature presentation. Project it onto a white sheet or a portable screen, and let the action and patriotism unfold under the starry night sky. Grab some popcorn and treats, and enjoy the movie with your whole family, including your furry friends. It's a relaxed and entertaining way to celebrate while keeping the noise and stress to a minimum.
 

This 4th of July, let's prioritize the happiness and well-being of our beloved pets while still embracing the spirit of celebration. By opting for dog- and kid-friendly alternatives to fireworks you can create a festive atmosphere that keeps everyone entertained and safe. So, gather your loved ones, including the furry ones, and enjoy a memorable and tail-wagging Independence Day celebration!