All-American Traditions That Belong on Your Summer Bucket List
Nothing like picnics, fireworks, and cherry pie!
Some things just feel like summertime in the good ol’ U.S. of A.: a stack of hot dogs fresh off the grill, a cooler packed with icy drinks, a baseball game playing in the background, and the first burst of fireworks lighting up the sky. These little all-American traditions aren’t just things to do—they’re the moments that bring families together year after year and the reason summertime memories are so special.
And nobody knows how to turn everyday Americana moments into celebrations quite like the Drummond family. The Pioneer Woman’s big Pawhuska party on the 4th of July is the perfect example of that all-American spirit, filled with delicious food, fun games, festive details, and plenty of room for friends, neighbors, and loved ones to join in on the excitement.
Of course, there are plenty more traditions to enjoy, too. From catching fireflies after sunset and enjoying a Rocket Pop to heading out to a baseball game or roadtrip across the country, these simple pleasures capture the spirit of summer. How many of them will you get to do this summer? Mark them off on this fun bingo card!
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Go to a Barbecue
Follow the smell of the grill for a truly all-American summer! Barbecues are easy, lively, and made for long afternoons with good food and even better company. Just be sure to cook up some of The Pioneer Woman’s best BBQ recipes!
Dress in Red, White, and Blue
Pulling out patriotic colors is a simple way to join in the celebration. Just take it from the Drummond ladies! Whether it’s a full outfit or just a festive accessory, red, white, and blue always feels right for summer holidays.
Watch Fireworks
It’s hard to beat the festive feelings that come with looking up at the sky as fireworks light up the night. That’s why Ladd Drummond puts on such an epic firework show every year! Whether it’s a huge town display or sparklers in the backyard, the tradition brings everyone together.
Eat a Hot Dog
Not much says summer in America quite like a hot dog fresh off the grill. Whether you’re at a backyard barbecue, baseball game, or Fourth of July event, this classic bite has earned its place as a summertime staple. Eat them with just ketchup or try a loaded version!
Go on a Picnic
Pack a basket with sandwiches, snacks, and something sweet, then find the perfect shady spot. Picnics are a timeless way to slow down and enjoy good food and good company outdoors.
Take a Trip to a National Park
America’s national parks showcase some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes. A visit is the perfect way to explore, unplug, and appreciate the great outdoors—just ask the Drummonds, who made plenty of memories on a Yellowstone trip back in 2003.
Hang a Flag
Nothing transforms a porch faster than a flag catching a little breeze. It’s a simple tradition, but it instantly gives the season a more festive feel as you show your pride and celebrate this country’s history.
Have a Rocket Pop
The red, white, and blue Rocket Pop is a freezer favorite that instantly brings back summer memories. It’s the kind of treat that belongs at pool parties, cookouts, and Fourth of July celebrations. Make your own similar version using Ree’s recipe!
Go to a Parade
Just before the Drummond’s annual 4th of July party, there’s a parade in Pawhuska! Parades bring out the best of small-town celebrations with floats, marching bands, and plenty of hometown spirit. Grab a spot along the route and enjoy the sights, sounds, and community pride.
Play Cornhole
You can’t go without playing the ultimate backyard game for all ages. Cornhole is easy to pick up, fun to compete in, and always seems to bring out everyone’s most playful (or competitive) side.
Bake a Cherry Pie
The phrase “as American as apple pie” may be famous, but Ree’s cherry pie deserves a spot at the table, too. A homemade pie with a flaky crust and sweet filling feels like the perfect ending to a summer celebration.
Go Camping
Ready for some adventure? Camping is all about reconnecting with nature and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. From sleeping under the stars to cooking over a fire, it’s a tradition that generations have loved (and that includes the Drummond family)!
Wear a Bandana
Tie on a bandana and your outfit instantly gets more festively fabulous. See: Paige’s adorable outfit! The classic American accessory is as practical as it is stylish, and can be worn for everything from 4th of July celebrations to working outside.
Drink Iced Tea
A tall glass of iced tea is practically a requirement on a hot summer day in the south. Sweet or unsweetened, this refreshing drink has been a favorite at family gatherings, cookouts, and porch hangs for generations.
Catch a Firefly
One of Ree’s favorite summer pastimes, chasing fireflies on warm evenings feels like something straight out of a childhood storybook. Catch a few, admire their glow, then let them light up the night again.
Watch a Baseball Game
Baseball has long been known as America’s pastime for a reason. There’s something special about spending a day at the ballpark, cheering on your team, and enjoying a classic game-day snack.
Make a Flag Cake
A festive dessert that instantly makes any gathering feel like a patriotic party. Ree’s version is topped with a dreamy cream cheese frosting and berries, so it looks just as good as it tastes.
Make S’mores
Few treats are more nostalgic than a gooey s’more made around a campfire. Toasted marshmallows, melty chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers are a combination that never gets old. Plus, there are so many sweet s’mores variations to try (like this s’mores dip)!
Light Sparklers
Add a little sparkle to summer nights in the most all-American way! Hand them out after sunset and watch everyone enjoy their own tiny fireworks show.
Take a Road Trip
Few things feel more American than piling into the car and hitting the open road. The Drummond family does it all the time! From scenic highways to quirky roadside stops, a good old-fashioned road trip is all about the adventure along the way.
Macie Reynolds is the assistant editor of E-Commerce and SEO for The Pioneer Woman.
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