The Fourth of July is the most joyously (and loudly) celebrated of the summer holidays. Memorial Day is cherished, precious and necessary, but the holiday has a somber subtext. While technically in the summer, by the time Labor Day rolls around autumn is in the air, school is nigh and football games are being contested.
Other summer holidays like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, even Flag Day come and go much more quickly – and quietly – than Independence Day.
Whether you, your friends and your family embrace, tolerate or shun the booming, banging and crackling of July 4th, here are some things you might consider to make your holiday enjoyable, and – if needed – more peaceful:
- If it seems like you can’t escape the sound of fireworks, fight fire with fire – or in this case, fight noise with noise. Use white noise like a fan turned up high to drown out the sounds outside
- If your storm windows are open, closing them for a few days will keep your house quieter
- Music soothes the savage beast – harmonies and melodies can not only ease your nerves, but listening to tunes might take your mind off the destruction happening outside your walls. Headphones or ear buds will add a layer of defense for your ear drums
If using fireworks, make sure to check and re-check for safety.
Happy Birthday, America!