July Fourth is quickly approaching. This year is special to us because Joy Cone was founded in the United States exactly 100 years ago, meaning we have so much to celebrate this Independence Day!

There’s no better way to celebrate the Fourth of July than with a pool party. So, gather your friends and family and let us help you plan the perfect poolside party.

Here’s everything you need to enjoy Independence Day with the whole family.

Invitations

Step one — invitations!

Before you jump into the party-planning details, it’s important to spread the word. These free and inexpensive websites offer a variety of invitation options that you can customize, print, or order.

Minted offers a variety of paper invitations ranging in price depending on the design. They also now offer online invitations that are free for a limited time during the beta period.

Evite offers online and paper invitations with an easy-to-use guest list that allows you to track RSVPs after you’ve sent out your invitations.

For a unique, artsy touch, Etsy offers invitations from talented artists and graphic designers. Styles range in price based on the designer.

Décor

Next step — set the stage!

Now that your invitations are sent out and your guest list is growing, it’s time to plan out your decor. On-theme decorations are key to setting the mood. Fourth of July is all about the red, white, and blue. Here are a few simple ways to show off your patriotism and set the perfect tone for the party.

Streamers and Hanging Decor

Streamers and hanging decor help to liven up an empty space. Ribbon streamers are simple to make at home from inexpensive materials. Simply purchase a variety of red, white, and blue ribbon wheels. Cut them into even lengths and tie them along a clothesline. You can also purchase pre-made hanging decor from party stores — they tend to stock up on seasonal decor around holidays.

Red, White, and Blue Lighting

Party lights are another fun and easy way to make your pool or deck area look special. They are also perfect for parties that extend into the evening. Since Fourth of July parties typically go past dark for fireworks, party lights will allow you and your guest to enjoy the space, even after the sun goes down. Look for red, white, and blue lights for a patriotic touch!

Patriotic Pool Toys

Every pool party needs inflatable pool toys. Buying a few fun, Fourth of July-themed inflatable toys will not only provide guests with floaties for relaxing in the pool but also festive decorations for the pool area.

Food

At Joy Cone, we admit we’re a bit biased, but we think food is the most important part of the party! Here are a few of our favorite Joy-inspired party snacks.

Berry Trifle Waffle Bowls

This is a classic Fourth of July recipe that’s typically served in a deep glass dish. The traditional recipe is made with layers of pound cake, but waffle bowls can simplify the recipe for quick and easy preparation.

Place a square of pound cake at the bottom of a Joy Waffle Bowl. Add one scoop of white chocolate or vanilla pudding. Top it off with red and blue berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Serve as individual portions for each guest.

Joy Snow Cones

Snow cones are the perfect refreshing treat for a pool party — and Joy Sugar Cones make them even better! To make snow cones, start placing ice in a blender. Then, set it aside in the freezer so it doesn’t melt.

To make the syrups, you will need:

  • ¾ cup sugar
  • ¾ cup water
  • 1 packet (0.16 ounces) KOOL-AID, preferably red or blue

In a medium pan, combine sugar and water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, stirring occasionally and let simmer for a few minutes. Remove from heat and add the KOOL-AID packet. Continue to stir until the KOOL-AID completely dissolves. Carefully pour into a bottle for serving. Store in the refrigerator.

When serving, scoop blended ice into a Joy sugar cone. Then squirt the red and blue syrup over the ice.

American Sprinkle-Dipped Waffle Cones

Rather than serving ice cream in a plain cone, spice it up with a sprinkle-dipped waffle cone. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Joy waffle cones
  • White chocolate chips
  • Red, white, and blue sprinkles

Pour the white chocolate chips into a microwavable bowl and heat until melted. Dip each waffle cone about one inch into the melted chocolate. While the chocolate is still wet, add sprinkles. Set each cone on a baking sheet covered in parchment paper. Place in the refrigerator until hardened.

Fourth of July Confetti Popcorn in a Waffle Bowl

This sweet and savory treat combines all of your favorite snacks — popcorn, chocolate, and Joy Cones! Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 4 cups plain popped popcorn (no butter)
  • ¾ cups white chocolate chips
  • Red and blue food coloring
  • Patriotic sprinkles
  • Red or blue M&Ms™
  • Joy Cone Waffle Bowls

After popping the popcorn, spread it out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Melt the white chocolate in the microwave and separate into three bowls. Mix the red and blue food coloring into two of the bowls of white chocolate. Drizzle the chocolate over the popcorn and top with M&Ms and sprinkles.

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for one hour until the chocolate has hardened. Then, remove from the refrigerator and break into bite-sized pieces. Serve in Joy Waffle Bowls for personal serving sizes.

We hope you have a JOYful Fourth of July and enjoy celebrating Independence Day with the ones you love. Don’t forget to tag us in your photos @JoyConeCo and use our hashtag, #BringJoyHome.

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