July celebrations aren't limited to Independence Day in the United States. Though there aren't any other major July holidays, there are still plenty of things to celebrate as the first full month of summer unfolds.
National Ice Cream Month
Ice cream and warm nights are a perfect combination. President Ronald Reagan established July as National Ice Cream Month in 1984 and decreed the third Sunday of the month National Ice Cream Day. Perhaps it's because the very first ice cream cone was served in July 1904 at the World's Fair in St. Louis. For a great way to celebrate, take some long weekend rides to ice cream stands in your area.
National Blueberry Month
July also marks the blueberry harvest in the United States. In 1999, the US Department of Agriculture named July National Blueberry Month. Blueberries aren't just sweet and delicious; they're a good source of antioxidants and rich in Vitamin E. Celebrate this berry with a fresh pint from a local farm stand in muffins, pancakes or a pie. For a fun outing with the family, look for pick-your-own blueberry farms in your area.
National Hot Dog Month
The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council has named July as National Hot Dog Month and July 19 as National Hot Dog Day. During the summer months, Americans consume around seven billion hot dogs, according to the Council. Fire up the grill for a hot dog feast to celebrate, or savor the exceptional flavor of the hot dogs found in major league baseball stadiums.
National Recreation and Parks Month
Since 1985, July has been designated as National Recreation and Parks Month by the National Recreation and Park Association, a non-profit group dedicated to the establishment and preservation of parkland in the United States. The long, warm summer days offer an exceptional opportunity to discover state and national parks in your area. Many parks offer free or discounted admission during the month to encourage people to visit. Pack a picnic lunch (July is National Picnic Month, too) and enjoy the natural scenery.
Man Walks on the Moon
On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to set foot on the moon. To this day, NASA's moon program remains one of the great scientific and exploration achievements of all time. You can learn more about the moon landing by visiting a science museum, checking books out of the local library or looking for information online.
 | Learn more about July and August holidays, including Canada Day, July Fourth and Bastille Day. |
 | The origin of Canada Day began with the creation of Canada's federal government, and it is now celebrated by concerts, parades and fireworks. |
 | Bastille Day is for France what the Fourth of July is to the United States, as it represents the start of the French Republic. On July 14, 1789, residents of Paris raided the Bastille, launching the French Revolution. |
While there aren't any major holidays in the month of August, there are a few August celebrations that are fun for the whole family. |
On Teddy Bear Picnic Day, July 10, your kids can take their best stuffed friends out for a special event. Invite your child's friends and their bears over to join in the picnic fun. |
