Lisa’s passion is baking. Opening a store was a big step—one she made with support from PSEG Long Island. She earned incentives for choosing a vacant space that reduced her monthly energy costs. Now, her thriving business has made life a little sweeter for all of us.
Reduce your energy costs. Get a free business energy assessment. psegliny.com/businessassessment
*Incentives, grants, and rebates will vary with every project.
It's June and summer is near! With longer days, warmer nights, graduations, Father’s Day, vacations, and backyard gatherings, this month is all about making memories. Inside this issue, enjoy seasonal editorial, a fresh tasty recipe, and more to brighten your month. Interested in advertising? Seasons® Magazine is mailed to nearly 80,000 homes each montth and is published online as well. Contact us today to learn more.
Celebrate The Start Of Summer
Thesummer solstice offers the most hours of daylight all year. According to Space.com, the summer solstice occurs when one of the Earth’s poles has its maximum tilt toward the sun. The summer solstice falls on June 20, 21 or 22 in the Northern Hemisphere. The 2026 summer solstice (first day of summer) in the Northern Hemisphere is Sunday, June 21, 2026. The longest day of the year and the beginning of astrological summer is a source of celebration for many people. Come the summer solstice, the warm weather stabilizes and there are more days of sunshine and mild temperatures. Summer also is a season for school breaks and family vacations, representing additional reasons to look forward to the summer solstice. People can commemorate the start of summer in many different ways, including these fun ideas.
• Plan a hike. With a greater number of daylight hours, the solstice is the perfect time to head outdoors and
enjoy the sights. There’s no need to rush, as the sun sets late in the evening, giving those who have to work or attend school earlier in the day an opportunity to enjoy a hike after signing off.
• Take a photo. Make it a tradition to take a “first day of summer” photo each year to catalog the years going by. Everyone can pose in
their favorite summer garb or get coordinating t-shirts.
• Change the decor. The first day of summer is a perfect time to change a home’s decor to reflect bright, summery details. Pull out bright throw pillows, switch to citrus or coconutscented candles to establish a beachy mood and fill a bowl with limes, lemons and oranges for an easy summer centerpiece.
• Make a summer treat. Spend the day trying a new summer recipe, such as homemade ice cream, s’mores, fresh lemonade, or a frozen cocktail (mocktail) like piña coladas. Enjoy in honor of the start of summer.
• Take a plunge: Make an inaugural summer trip to the seaside, a pool or a lake and do your best cannonball into the water. Summer is a peak time for swimming, water sports and boating, so it pays to dive right into these activities.
Tricks For Planning Your Summer Getaway
Summeris a popular time of year, with warm temperatures and a relaxed atmosphere that can make even staying home feel like a vacation. Still, many people look forward to traveling and fully embracing that sense of rest and relaxation. Planning a summer getaway during peak travel season can be challenging, especially when balancing family schedules. These tips can help make vacation planning easier.
• Identify blackout dates. Start by marking any non-negotiable commitments on the calendar, such as kids’ summer camps, sports practices, or other events. Blocking out those dates early helps reveal which days and weeks are available for travel.
• Start planning early. Getting a head start on vacation planning can save money and reduce stress. Narrow down destination choices, compare travel and lodging costs, and book as soon as you find a good deal to avoid higher last-minute prices.
• Set price alerts. Many travel websites let you create alerts for deals that match your budget. Keep in mind that airline sites may track searches, so clearing cookies or using a different device can sometimes help you find better prices.
• Check for work conflicts. Before finalizing plans, make sure coworkers or others in your department are not already scheduled to be out. Many
employers limit overlapping vacation time, so it’s wise to discuss plans with supervisors early.
• Delegate tasks. Vacation planning involves many details, from transportation to meals and activities. Sharing responsibilities with family members or friends can make the process much less stressful for everyone.
St. James Five-Mile Challenge & 5K Fun Run
Raise $130K For Ronald McDonald House
At Stony Brook Children’s Hospital
Morethan 800 runners turned out for the third annual St. James Certified 5 Mile Challenge and 5K Fun Run on Saturday, May 9, 2026, raising more than $130,000 to benefit Ronald McDonald House Long Island and its campaign to build a new Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital.
“We’ve had overwhelming support and participation from the community, proving how much everyone wants to see us build the first Ronald McDonald House in Suffolk County,” said capital campaign Chair and Race co-organizer Cynthia Wong Lippe. “We can’t wait to see this project become a reality very soon.”
The St. James Challenge is a community-centered event designed for participants of all ages and fitness levels. 100% of the proceeds from the
race and fun run will directly support the construction of the Ronald McDonald House and advance Ronald McDonald House Long Island’s mission to keep families close when they need it most, providing a welcoming home to stay for families with children receiving critical medical care.
Participants chose between the timed 5-mile race or the 5K Fun Run/Walk up the beloved Cordwood Path making the event accessible for competitive runners, casual walkers, children, and families alike. The morning featured a Vendor Village and Community Celebration on the grounds of the farm. Wolfie the Seawolf from Stony Brook University and Jimbo Jaws from the Long Island Aquarium were also on hand, along with musicians from The Jazz Loft, who led runners to the start line.
With 395 Ronald
McDonald Houses currently serving families across the globe, each rooted in the strength of its local community, the Ronald McDonald House at Stony Brook is poised to offer families best-in-class hospitality, care and comfort when they need it most. Currently under construction, the new Ronald McDonald House in Stony Brook is planned to open in late 2027and will provide no-cost housing, meals, therapies, and
24/7 support to hospitalized children and their families.
About Ronald McDonald Long Island
Ronald McDonald House Long Island provides comfort and support to families of children undergoing medical treatment. Follow Ronald McDonald House Long Island on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok.
Photo courtesy of Ronald McDonald House Long Island
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Connect With Dad This Father's Day Even If You're Far Away
Father’s Day celebrations are unique to each family. Some gather for a big celebration, while distance may keep others apart. Children who live far from their fathers can still make the holiday special, even if they can’t be with Dad in person this June.
If you’re miles away from a father, grandfather, or stepfather this Father’s Day, there are still meaningful ways to celebrate.
• Connect digitally. If you can’t share a meal in person, use video chat apps like Zoom or FaceTime to connect. Sharing a virtual meal while chatting and laughing can still make the day feel special.
• Give gifts that keep on giving. Subscription boxes remain popular, from grilling spices and gourmet coffee to snack boxes and cheese-of-themonth clubs. These gifts
offer a monthly reminder of your appreciation.
• Consider virtual experiences. Many shoppers are choosing unique gifts over traditional ones. A virtual whiskey tasting or an online master class you can enjoy together over video call can create lasting memories.
• Personalize gifts for Dad. A monogrammed golf bag, custom photo book, or travel gear tied to one of Dad’s hobbies shows extra thought and care.
• Plan a trip together. If Father’s Day can’t be spent together, schedule a future outing like a concert, ballgame, or weekend trip centered around one of Dad’s passions.
Distance may affect Father’s Day celebrations, but with some planning and modern gifting ideas, any dad can feel celebrated and loved.
The Ultimate Guide To Dads’ Day Dining
Father’s Day is a time to honor fathers and father figures. Dads often do so much to support and love their families without much fanfare, making Father’s Day the perfect chance to treat them to something special — often a delicious meal.
According to the National Retail Federation, Father’s Day spending was expected to reach a record $24 billion in 2025, up from $22.4 billion in 2024 and surpassing the previous record of $22.9 billion set in 2023. Special outings remain one of the most popular gift choices, showing that many families prefer creating memories together over traditional presents. As families plan to celebrate Dad this year, dining out remains a thoughtful and popular way to mark the occasion.
• Classic steakhouse: A reservation at a steakhouse is always a solid choice. These restaurants are sophisticated and intimate, with broad menu appeal. Since
steakhouses tend to be pricier, planning ahead is important.
• Casual barbecue: For a laid-back dad, a relaxed BBQ spot with a patio can be ideal. Pulled pork, slow-smoked ribs, or a brisket sandwich with a cold beer make for a memorable Father’s Day meal.
• Seafood lover: Dads who love seafood may appreciate a restaurant with a strong seafood menu, especially one located on the water. Options range from upscale dining to casual fish fry spots.
• Gastropub: Many pubs combine great food with rotating craft brews. An artisanal burger paired with a pretzel and an IPA or stout can make for the perfect celebration. Before making a reservation, think about what Dad would truly enjoy rather than trying to impress. Tailoring the meal to his personality and preferences can make Father’s Day even more meaningful.
Pecan-Stuffed Pork Chops
Serves 7-8
1 large rack of pork chops, bones in
4 tablespoons butter
1⁄2 yellow onion, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 1⁄2 cups chicken stock
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups panko bread crumbs
2 cups
2 cups roasted pecans, chopped
More kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Make A Father’s Day Meal Dad Can Savor
Families celebrate Dad in unique ways on Father’s Day. Gifts are customary, but so is a delicious meal Dad will love. Many dads will appreciate a meal that goes above and beyond the ordinary, preferably something that is hearty and delicious. These “Pecan-Stuffed Pork Chops” from “Jon Bonnell’s Texas Favorites” (Gibbs Smith) are a great dish to serve family style when everyone gathers around the table for Father’s Day.
Directions:
Clean the rack of pork well and cut in between the bones to get thick individual pork chops. Cut a large slit down the back side of each chop and insert the tip of a knife 2 to 3 inches inside the chop to create a pocket for the stuffing. Do not poke completely through the pork or the stuffing will not stay in.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the onion, celery and garlic until the onion has slightly softened. Add the chicken stock, salt and cayenne and bring to a light simmer. Pour the contents into a mixing bowl and add the panko bread crumbs and pecans. Mix together and let cool to room temperature. Stuff as much of the mixture into each pork chop as will fit (overstuffing is okay, too). Sprinkle both sides of each chop with salt and pepper to taste, then roast in a preheated 400 F oven for 12 minutes. Turn the chops over once and roast an additional 15 minutes. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Cook to medium, or 135 to 140 F.
The Ultimate Guide To Dads’ Day Dining Connect With Dad This Father's Day Even If You're Far Away
Father’s Day celebrations are unique to each family. Some gather for a big celebration, while distance may keep others apart. Children who live far from their fathers can still make the holiday special, even if they can’t be with Dad in person this June.
If you’re miles away from a father, grandfather, or stepfather this Father’s Day, there are still meaningful ways to celebrate.
• Connect digitally. If you can’t share a meal in person, use video chat apps like Zoom or FaceTime to connect. Sharing a virtual meal while chatting and laughing can still make the day feel special.
• Give gifts that keep on giving. Subscription boxes remain popular, from grilling spices and gourmet coffee to snack boxes and cheese-of-themonth clubs. These gifts
offer a monthly reminder of your appreciation.
• Consider virtual experiences. Many shoppers are choosing unique gifts over traditional ones. A virtual whiskey tasting or an online master class you can enjoy together over video call can create lasting memories.
• Personalize gifts for Dad. A monogrammed golf bag, custom photo book, or travel gear tied to one of Dad’s hobbies shows extra thought and care.
• Plan a trip together. If Father’s Day can’t be spent together, schedule a future outing like a concert, ballgame, or weekend trip centered around one of Dad’s passions.
Distance may affect Father’s Day celebrations, but with some planning and modern gifting ideas, any dad can feel celebrated and loved.
Father’s Day is a time to honor fathers and father figures. Dads often do so much to support and love their families without much fanfare, making Father’s Day the perfect chance to treat them to something special — often a delicious meal.
According to the National Retail Federation, Father’s Day spending was expected to reach a record $24 billion in 2025, up from $22.4 billion in 2024 and surpassing the previous record of $22.9 billion set in 2023. Special outings remain one of the most popular gift choices, showing that many families prefer creating memories together over traditional presents. As families plan to celebrate Dad this year, dining out remains a thoughtful and popular way to mark the occasion.
• Classic steakhouse: A reservation at a steakhouse is always a solid choice. These restaurants are sophisticated and intimate, with broad menu appeal. Since
steakhouses tend to be pricier, planning ahead is important.
• Casual barbecue: For a laid-back dad, a relaxed BBQ spot with a patio can be ideal. Pulled pork, slow-smoked ribs, or a brisket sandwich with a cold beer make for a memorable Father’s Day meal.
• Seafood lover: Dads who love seafood may appreciate a restaurant with a strong seafood menu, especially one located on the water. Options range from upscale dining to casual fish fry spots.
• Gastropub: Many pubs combine great food with rotating craft brews. An artisanal burger paired with a pretzel and an IPA or stout can make for the perfect celebration. Before making a reservation, think about what Dad would truly enjoy rather than trying to impress. Tailoring the meal to his personality and preferences can make Father’s Day even more meaningful.
United States Navy Blue Angels To Headline
The 2026 FourLeaf Air Show At Jones Beach
FourLeafFederal Credit Union and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, are very pleased to once again welcome the United States Navy Blue Angels as headliners for the 2026 FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach. The announcement was made at the annual International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) Convention in Las Vegas.
The 2026 FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach will take place over the Fourth of July weekend as part of the nation’s Semiquincentennial (250th) celebration of the United States, as announced by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul. The FourLeaf Air Show will take place on Sunday, July 5th and Monday, July 6th, with a practice day on Friday, July 3rd. The annual Jones Beach Fireworks Spectacular will once again light up the sky on Saturday, July 4th.
“The 2026 FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach will be a spectacular tribute to America’s 250 years of freedom, courage, and innovation,” said Linda Armyn, President and CEO of FourLeaf Federal Credit Union. “We’re proud to continue a tradition that unites families, honors those who serve, and reminds us all what it means to be part of this great nation. With the Blue Angels leading an all-star lineup of military and civilian performers, we’re excited to present a thrilling air show showcasing the very best of American excellence.”
Additional performers announced at ICAS include: the United States Army Golden Knights Parachute Team and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. Civilian teams also set to perform in 2026 include: the current reigning Air Masters Cup Series champion and current Sky Grand Prix Champion, Aarron Deliu; the American Airpower Museum Warbirds; and the Farmingdale State College Flying Rams. The full 2026 lineup will continue to be updated and announced.
“The FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach is one of the most anticipated events of the summer, and this year’s celebration will be our biggest and most meaningful yet. It’s a chance for families to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, honor our heroes, and enjoy an unforgettable display of aviation excellence right here on Long Island,” said George Gorman, Regional Director, New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
The United States Navy Blue Angels headlined the very first air show at Jones Beach in 2004 and will return to Long Island to headline next year’s special Semiquincentennial show. This will be the Blue Angels’ 11th headliner performance for what has grown into one of the most respected air shows in the country. The last time the Blue Angels performed, in 2024, over 459,000 people attended the show over the three-day period.
How Flag Day Got Its Start
Flag Day is commemorated each year in the United States on June 14.
Though Flag Day is not an official federal holiday, the day remains significant nonetheless, as it traces its origins all the way back to 1777.
The Second Continental Congress formally adopted the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777. That resolution noted certain characteristics of the new flag, including the alternating red and white stripes that remain part of the flag that is celebrated each June 14.
Flag Day is one of various notable events and holidays commemorated in June, a list that includes Father’s Day, Juneteenth and the summer solstice. That can make it
easy for Flag Day to get lost in the proverbial shuffle, but the Farmer’s Almanac notes it is customary for the sitting president of the United States to encourage Americans to display the flag outside of their homes and businesses each June 14. The flag is flown from all public buildings on Flag Day, which the Farmer’s Almanac reports is another
rich tradition that dates back 1877 and the centennial of the flag’s adoption.
President Woodrow Wilson issued a presidential proclamation on June 14, 1916, that designated the day as Flag Day going forward. Thirty-three years after President Wilson’s proclamation, the U.S. Congress officially established
June 14 as National Flag Day. One notable tidbit Americans can consider this Flag Day is the connection between the flag and seamstress Betsy Ross. Many American schoolchildren were taught that Ms. Ross designed and sewed the first American flag, but historians have since discredited that legend. The Farmer’s Almanac notes that many historians now believe George Washington already had a design for a flag with 13 red and white alternating stripes and 13 six-pointed stars set in a circle when he visited Ms. Ross in Philadelphia. And while historians do not doubt that Ms. Ross sewed a flag reflecting the design George Washington brought with him when visiting the seamstress, it’s hard to confirm if she in fact sewed the first flag.
Community Invited
To Celebrate Flag Day
Residentsare encouraged to honor Flag Day on June 14, commemorating the adoption of the American flag in 1777 and the values it represents. Flag Day is a time to reflect on the nation’s history, unity, and freedom. Community members can participate by displaying the American flag at their homes and businesses and attending local ceremonies and educational programs.
Flag Day reminds us of the ideals that unite us as Americans. It’s a meaningful opportunity to come together and show pride in our country.
Local observances may include flagraising ceremonies and activities for residents of all ages to learn about the history and significance of the Stars and Stripes.
Tips For Picking And Cutting Watermelon
Watermelon
is a summertime staple. Each summer, stores and farm stands have an abundance of watermelons on display, and many people feel no picnic or barbecue is complete without watermelon.
Watermelon is a refreshing option on hot days. It’s ideal sliced and served, or can be included in fruit salads, smoothies, or even “spiked” cocktails. The key to a tasty watermelon is knowing how to pick one that is ripe while serving watermelon comes down to understanding some easycutting strategies.
• Choose a watermelon that has a firm, symmetrical shape. Avoid melons with bumps, dents, or cuts.
• Watermelons should be relatively heavy. They’re 92 percent water, and that juiciness should be reflected in a substantial weight for the melon’s size.
• Watermelon.org advises looking for a creamy yellow spot on the underside of the watermelon. This is called the “ground spot.” It indicates where the melon sat on the ground and ripened in the sun. Once cut from the vine, a watermelon has about three to four weeks to be consumed.
• All parts of the watermelon are edible, including the seeds and rind. The rind can be pickled or cut up to use in stir-fry dishes.
When bringing watermelon to an event, it is a courtesy to bring it already sliced or cut up. This ensures the host or hostess does not have to tackle what can sometimes be a chore. Here are three techniques to cut a watermelon easily:
Cubes
1. Cut both ends off of the watermelon.
2. Stand the watermelon on one sliced end. Use the knife to slice down and cut off the rind.
3. After removing the rind from all sides of the melon, cut into discs about 1⁄2-inch in thickness.
4. Then cut those discs into cubes.
Slices
1. Cut the watermelon in half lengthwise.
2. Take one cut half and place it cut-side down.
3. Cut the watermelon into slices.
4. Repeat for the other cut half.
Strips
1. Cut the watermelon as you would with the slices. Rather than leaving it in large slices, turn the watermelon and cut the same size slices in the opposite direction. This creates strips that are easy for kids to grab and maneuver.
2. Repeat with the other half of the watermelon in the same manner.
Enjoy A Healthy Summer
Coldsmay not be as common in summer as they are in winter, but anyone who has had one during warm, sunny weather knows how unpleasant a runny nose, sore throat, and low energy can be when everyone else is outside enjoying the season. There’s no substitute for feeling healthy in summer. A healthy summer means avoiding illness and making the most of a season when no one wants to battle colds or other health issues. The following strategies can help people stay well:
• Protect your skin from the sun. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends applying a broadspectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher before going outside and reapplying as needed, especially after swimming or sweating. The American Cancer Society notes that sunburn blisters can increase skin cancer risk, while sunburn can also weaken immune system response.
• Limit alcohol
consumption. Summer social events often mean more opportunities to drink, but alcohol and hot weather can be a risky mix. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism notes that heat increases fluid loss through sweating, while alcohol adds to dehydration by increasing urination, raising the risk of heat stroke.
• Eat the right foods. A diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables supports muscles, strengthens bones, and boosts immunity, according to the CDC. Good nutrition can help people stay energized and better prepared for active summer schedules.
• Get adequate sleep. Adults should aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night to support immune health and avoid missing out on summer fun. The Mayo Clinic notes that sleep deprivation can reduce production of cytokines, proteins that help fight infection and inflammation.
Prepare Pets For Fourth Of July Festivities
Manypeople are eager for Independence Day celebrations in early summer. There is much to be excited about, as festivities often begin in the afternoon with barbecues and pool parties, and commence late at night after fireworks shows that light up the night sky. Still, not everyone enjoys the extra noise and busy nature of July 4th parties, particularly furry members of the family. Animal control services often report an increase in lost animals between July 4th and July 6th. That’s because the excitement of the holiday puts pets out of their comfort zones. While pet owners need not cancel their July 4th plans, they should take heed of the many ways to keep their pets safe during the festivities.
Update identification
Be sure prior to any July 4th events that pets are wearing collars with current identification information. If an address or phone number has changed since the last time you updated microchip records, be sure to check the account is current.
Be careful with alcoholic drinks
Party hosts typically serve beer, wine and cocktails. Alcoholic beverages have the potential to poison pets, says the ASPCA. Animals can become very intoxicated, severely depressed or go into comas if they drink alcohol. Keep spirited drinks well out of reach.
Check with the vet
Many pets are prone to anxiety from loud noises, such as thunderstorms and fireworks, and lots of commotion — something that occurs in spades come July 4th. Some veterinarians recommend a small course of anti-anxiety medication or a sedative to help pets cope with the stimuli. Create a quiet space
Allow pets to ride out the day in their comfortable, quiet and cozy retreats. If necessary, create a space in an interior room. Cover the pet crate with a blanket and offer favorite toys or bedding to create a soothing environment.
Place notes on doors and gates
While it’s best to keep pets in a locked room away from the fray, some pets like to socialize with guests and are not bothered by noises. However, alert guests with notes posted on doors and fence gates to check to make sure pets are not trying to escape behind them. All doors should be closed firmly when entering or exiting.
Pick up debris
Firework debris can rain down on properties even if you were not shooting off the fireworks. Curious pets may pick it up or eat it, which runs the risk of an upset stomach or even an intestinal blockage. Check your yard before letting pets out to play.
Keep an eye on the grill
Pets can be opportunists, and those burgers and chicken drumsticks smell delicious to pets. Pets that get too close to the grill can become injured. And if pets eat leftovers, they may end up with digestive distress or even be poisoned by foods that are toxic to cats and dogs.
Must-Have Items For Summer Entertaining In The Backyard
Summerentertaining season provides ample opportunities to soak up some sun and have some fun with family and friends. Backyard barbecues and other get-togethers at home are even more fun when hosts ensure they have certain must-have items for summer soirees.
• Fire features: The days when summer hosts only needed a few extra lawn chairs and some burgers and hot dogs on the grill for a backyard barbecue are long gone. Though those items still have a place at backyard barbecues, summer parties have taken a step up. Fire features, whether it’s a standalone fire pit, one built into a patio or a gaspowered fire table, are now wildly popular. Fire features provide a welcome place to relax and converse with guests after the sun goes down. And much to kids’ delight, a fire feature also paves the way for some post-meal s’mores.
• Insulated wine cooler: Coolers are great places to store water, soda, beer, seltzers, and other popular beverages. But what about wine? An insulated wine cooler ensures wine stays properly cooled but doesn’t get too cold, which can happen when wine is stored in a more traditional cooler filled with ice. Bottles are simply placed in the insulated cooler (much like canned beverages slide easily into can koozies), and the bottle can be kept on the table much like you would for formal dinners indoors.
Hosts can go the extra mile by pairing insulated wine tumblers with their wine cooler.
• Games: Summer entertaining season might be all about relaxation, but games can up the fun factor at backyard gatherings. Cornhole is a wildly popular game, and customized cornhole boards can help hosts come across as party professionals. Ladder toss, bocce and wiffle ball are some additional games that can make the festivities more fun. Hosts who don’t have a pool also can invest in an inflatable pool big enough to fit all the kids who will be coming to the party.
• Outdoor storage cabinet:
Hosts can save themselves the stress and effort of walking in and out for dinnerware and other table accessories by investing in a sturdy outdoor storage cabinet. As meal time draws near, hosts will appreciate that all the plates, napkins, utensils, and placemats are already outside. The top of the storage cabinet can double as a small but convenient buffet station for sides that aren’t being cooked over an open flame.
• Projector and screen: A projector and screen can really up the ante on summer entertaining, turning a backyard barbecue into a great place to watch a game or cuddle up after dinner for a movie night
under the stars. Projectors and screens won’t bust the budget, but those who have more to spend may want to consider an outdoor television.
Outdoor televisions are built to handle the glare of the summer sun, but a retractable awning may be a good safety net for hosts who plan to spend many a weekend afternoon outside watching games or movies with family and friends.
These are just a handful of items that can up the ante on traditional backyard barbecues. Homeowners should know that there’s no limit to the number of items that can make summer entertaining season more special.
Decorating For America’s 250th Anniversary
Eachyear on July 4, many Americans are in a celebratory mood as they prepare for all the fanfare involved with Independence Day festivities. But Independence Day 2026 stands to be extra special since it marks America’s 250th birthday. Towns, cities and the entire country will be planning much more extravagant July 4 celebrations in 2026. People who want to get in on the America 250 action may want to begin thinking about how they are going to make their homes and businesses more festive.
• Bunting and banners: Bunting and banners are traditional patriotic decorations. They traditionally are red, white and blue and can be hung from porches, fences and railings.
• American flags: Many homes and businesses already display the flag, but this is the perfect opportunity to do so for those who want to exhibit their pride in America. Be sure to treat the flag with respect and review the official United States Flag Code, which mandates that the flag never touches the ground and is illuminated if flown at night.
When hanging against a wall or window, the blue union must be at the top left.
• Specialty signs: Many municipalities are getting in on the America 250 action and will organize specialty parades and parties. People can check with local government offices to see if lawn signs will be available. If so, they can be displayed in front of homes or retail stores.
• Tablescapes: Themed America 250 tablecloths can be used for backyard parties and picnics. Centerpieces of mason jars filled with mini flags and birthday number candles spelling out 250 are another fun idea.
• Cozy accents: Both homeowners and store owners can incorporate cozy accents like wooden blocks or patriotic table runners that display the 1776-2026 theme. Throw pillows and blankets
featuring stars and stripes tossed over an antique rocking chair on a porch or near an entryway is a great way to offer a touch of Americana.
• Lights: Twinkling holiday lights in red ,white and blue can be hung around windows and doors, or wrapped around trees in the yard for festive appeal.
Communities may identify specific decorating goals, like entire streets featuring paper lanterns, or America 250 flags on telephone poles. Residents can participate in such plans where possible. America’s 250th birthday certainly is worthy of celebration and lots of patriotic decor can commemorate this special event.
Did You Know?
As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, some may wonder where the name “America” comes from. According to the Library of Congress, it is derived from Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci, who suggested the lands reached by Christopher Columbus in 1492 were part of a separate continent. In 1507, German mapmaker Martin Waldseemüller honored Vespucci by naming the region “America” on a map—the first to depict it as a separate continent—now held by the Library of Congress and often called “America’s Birth Certificate.”
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