July always seems to invite us to slow down just enough to savor the little things. The kitchen fills with bowls of juicy berries, sweet watermelon, and ripe summer fruit, while open windows let in the sounds of chirping birds, children laughing outside, and the occasional hum of sprinklers on a warm afternoon. It’s the season of backyard picnics, neighborhood celebrations, family cookouts, and simple traditions that become some of our favorite memories.
I love how July reminds us that joy doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s found in a plate of fresh fruit shared on the porch, a stack of beloved picture books waiting to be read together after lunch, or an easy kitchen activity that little hands are excited to help create. These small moments often become the ones we remember most.
One of our favorite July traditions is making what we call Fruit Sparklers. They’re colorful, refreshing, and so much fun for little hands to help create. Best of all, they look festive without requiring any special ingredients.
Whether we’re celebrating the Fourth of July or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon together, these fruit sparklers always disappear quickly.
Fruit Sparklers
Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
Servings: Makes about 8 fruit sparklers
Ingredients:
- 1 small seedless watermelon
- Green grapes
- Red grapes (optional)
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Raspberries (optional)
- Bamboo skewers
- Small star-shaped cookie cutter
Instructions:
- Slice the watermelon into 1-inch thick rounds.
- Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to cut watermelon stars.
- Wash and dry all of the fruit.
- Carefully thread grapes, blueberries, strawberries, and any other favorite berries onto each skewer.
- Finish each skewer by placing a watermelon star at the very top.
- Arrange the finished fruit sparklers on a serving platter and keep chilled until ready to enjoy.
A Friendly Kitchen Reminder
Since these fruit sparklers are made with bamboo skewers, they’re best assembled with the help of an adult. The pointed ends can be sharp, so be sure children are supervised while making and enjoying them. Younger children may also enjoy the fruit removed from the skewer and served in a bowl instead.
These are such a simple way to celebrate the season, and they’re always one of the first things to disappear from our July table.
Our Favorite July Books
One of my favorite ways to slow down during July is to gather a stack of beautiful books and enjoy a quiet afternoon reading together. These stories celebrate America, summertime, adventure, and the simple joys of the season.
The Fourth of July Story by Alice Dalgliesh
A classic picture book that tells the story behind Independence Day in a way children can easily understand. It introduces young readers to the events that led to America’s independence while celebrating the meaning of the holiday with warmth and clarity.
How to Make a Cherry Pie and See the U.S.A. by Marjorie Priceman
This delightful adventure follows a young baker across the United States in search of the finest ingredients for a cherry pie. Along the way, readers discover fascinating places, geography, and a wonderful appreciation for where our food comes from.
America the Beautiful by Katharine Lee Bates, illustrated by Wendell Minor
The beloved patriotic poem comes to life through breathtaking illustrations that showcase the beauty and diversity of America’s landscapes. It’s a wonderful book for inspiring gratitude for the country’s natural wonders and rich history.
Hello Lighthouse by Sophie Blackall
With stunning illustrations and lyrical storytelling, this Caldecott Medal-winning picture book follows the life of a lighthouse keeper and his family through the changing seasons. It’s a peaceful, beautiful story that celebrates family, dedication, and life by the sea.
One Morning in Maine by Robert McCloskey
Join Sal as she spends a memorable summer day along the coast of Maine. Filled with charming details and gentle storytelling, this timeless classic captures the simple adventures that make childhood summers unforgettable.
Time of Wonder by Robert McCloskey
This beautifully illustrated classic celebrates the changing seasons on the Maine coast, with a special focus on the joys of summertime. From sailing and exploring to watching storms roll in, it’s a wonderful reminder to notice the beauty of everyday moments.
John, Paul, George & Ben by Lane Smith
This humorous picture book introduces children to four of America’s Founding Fathers through playful stories about their childhoods. Filled with wit and engaging illustrations, it’s a fun way to spark curiosity about American history while sharing plenty of laughs.
Closing Thoughts
However you choose to spend July, I hope it’s filled with sunshine, fresh fruit, wonderful books, and plenty of moments gathered around the table with the people you love.
Sometimes the sweetest memories come from the simplest traditions, a platter of colorful fruit, a favorite story, and a little extra time together!