Recently it seems like every holiday has become an excuse to get absolutely trashed, regardless of what you are supposed to be celebrating. Commemorating the harvest? Drank. Jesus' birthday? Drank. Memorializing fallen soldiers? Drank. Maybe it's just me, but most holidays have actual importance, and should be observed and remembered with reverence, not disrespected and mostly forgotten because you had one too many. The 4th of July is one of those holidays. Yes, it should be a day filled with fun, hot dogs and fireworks but, above all, it should be spent appreciating our country, our history, our freedom, and those who have served to protect it.

I never knew any of our founding fathers personally, but I'm pretty sure getting black out drunk is not how they envisioned us celebrating and honoring their hard work. There is nothing patriotic (or cute) about being hunched over the toilet (even if you can mutter a quick "'Merica" between hurls). So, here are eight great and patriotic ways to spend your independence day that don't include getting hammered.

1. Support your local over-priced fireworks stand.

I have so many great memories of going to fireworks stands with my family. Exploring all the different types, smelling the gun powder, and watching the older kids buy huge (most likely illegal) fireworks. But no matter what they had, I would always go back to basics -- sparklers. Sparklers have always and will always be my favorite They are just the best. So go pick up some sparklers and re-ignite the easy-to-please child inside you.

2. Go to a parade.

Parades have so much excitement and joy wrapped up in one place: family, food, soldiers, flags, music, etc. It may sound cheesy, but there really is something about patriotic parades that make you proud to be an American. So get out there in that red , white and blue outfit you have been planning for weeks, and show your support for the good ol’ U.S. of A.

3. Find classic war or history movie on Netflix.

What could be more patriotic than taking time out of your day to learn more about our country and how we got where we are today?

4. Bake a patriotic dessert.

Whether you like watermelon cake, cookies, or muffins, there is an American themed recipe on Pinterest for you. Want to take it a step further? Deliver you homemade treat to your local Veteran's Administration or to a soldier in your neighborhood to thank them for their service.

5. Fly the flag.

You can fly a flag basically anywhere: Off your car, on your headband, your front yard, around your dogs neck. I mean, you really have no excuse not to. So jump on board and represent.

6. Cook out with your family.

Key word: family. Mom and Dad may not always be the most fun to hang out with, but don’t get it twisted -- family should always come first, specially during the holidays. Go get your fam-bam together for some food and fun.

7. Go to a baseball game.

Why not spend the day partaking in America’s favorite past time? You will do so many patriot things: sing the national anthem, eat hot dogs, watch fireworks, buy over priced merchandise, the list goes on and on!

8. Pay your respects.

Whether you visit a national monument, a history museum, or a veteran's cemetery, go somewhere to make your day meaningful. We are all so lucky to be born free in this wonderful country, so give honor where honor is due.