As summer’s most anticipated holiday approaches, families nationwide are debuting their red, white and blue décor and preparing their backyards for a fun and festive Independence Day barbecue. With the big day quickly approaching, it’s not too late to tackle a few affordable do-it-yourself projects that are sure to make your Fourth of July celebration the best on the block.

Follow these tips from Lowe’s to create a budget-friendly backyard bash that will leave a memorable impression with guests all summer long.

Celebrate the red, white and blue

Fly the American flag to show your love for Old Glory and our country. The custom of flying the U.S. flag daily is from sunrise to sunset. If you would like to display it 24 hours a day, illuminate it at night. For more tips on flag etiquette, consult our Lowe’s Creative Ideas article.

Once your American Flag is displayed proudly, transform your backyard scenery to show your patriotism.

• Plant red, white and blue assorted annuals in colorful containers.
• Spruce up the garden area by adding a simple yet elegant water fountain by allen + roth. A touch of architectural detail adds a nice visual and intrigue.

Entertain in comfort and style

Guests will naturally congregate on the patio, so create comfortable spaces for entertaining and catching up with friends and family. Update your outdoor furniture to a coordinated, conversation patio set with all-weather wicker materials that are durable enough to withstand the elements and beautiful enough to create a trendy outdoor space.

• Grill in style by placing a Grill Master three-burner grill on your patio. This affordable backyard addition allows you to create your favorite summertime recipes with ease, spicing up family gatherings.
• Add plush red and navy accent pillows for a festive upgrade to your current patio furniture. For additional seating, select Adirondack chairs in a festive red or white finish.
• Update the space underfoot and add a splash of color with an outdoor accent rug.
• Create ambiance for family and friends to lounge long after sunset by installing landscape lights and outdoor lamps.
• Finish out the perfect barbecue with a patio fire pit. Roast marshmallows and enjoy the company of friends and loved ones.

Prepare for game time

Make the most of your barbecue by hosting a variety of outdoor games. Lowe’s Creative Ideas for Home and Garden magazine has simple game projects that can be easily completed just hours before your party.

• Cornhole boards: With only a few pieces of lumber, a touch of your favorite paint color and DIY bags, you can build a great backyard game that’s fun for all ages.
• Ring-Toss Revelry: This unique game, where players attempt to toss washer rings into buckets, provides a quick entertainment solution. With its versatility and easy setup, the game can be used on any lawn or patio. Add a personal twist by replacing rings with bottle caps or acorns.

For more inspiring ideas and DIY projects, check out Lowe’s Creative Ideas for Home and Garden magazine or download the free app from the iTunes store. Follow Lowe’s on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest for other inspiring ideas or to share your project ideas with others.

ABOUT LOWE’S

With fiscal year 2011 sales of $50.2 billion, Lowe’s Companies, Inc. is a FORTUNE® 100 company that serves approximately 15 million customers a week at more than 1,745 home improvement stores in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Founded in 1946 and based in Mooresville, N.C., Lowe’s is the second-largest home improvement retailer in the world. For more information, visit Lowes.com