PCS season means that about one-third of military service members and their families will crisscross the nation and travel around the world to their new duty stations this year. Most of these moves happen in the summer, and if you are moving in May or June this year, then you will be spending July 4th in a new town and city. Take this opportunity to get out and embrace your new home on July 4th.
Jump In!
Once arriving at your new duty station, ask around for what there is to do on July 4th. Ask the hotel manager if you are staying a hotel while waiting for housing or ask your new neighbor if you were lucky enough to do a door to door. Check out local neighborhood social media pages or check a neighborhood community board. Find out about local happenings for the month of July – there might even be a neighborhood potluck. While you may not have all your household goods to fully participate in the potluck, consider grabbing some precut fruit or veggies to bring so you can meet the neighbors. Chances are those neighbors can give you the inside scoop on the house you just moved into, and into the area. This is your chance to learn from people who may have been residents for years – who are the best dentists, medical providers, daycares, and babysitters are.
Get Local
Beyond your neighborhood, check to see if there are local happenings at your local library. Perhaps there is a kid’s craft event, or a special book sale for the 4th of July. Maybe there is a big end of the summer reading program kickoff coming up, and you will want to check it out to familiarize yourself and your family with what library programming is offered.
Local museums sometimes due special admission tickets for the July 4th weekend – check them out as a way to learn what is offered in your area to make the best “duty station bucket list” possible.
Parade!
If your new town is having a parade, make it a priority to go. The parade typically showcases local businesses who actively support the area and is a great example of the community spirit. There may be a boy scout troop walking, so you note that in your phone for later. There may be amazing bands showcased that you want to check out later, or maybe even a float with a symphony that you didn’t know was around town – but now you do so you can add it to your bucket list! The parade itself is a great way to take a break from unpacking and organizing, spend time together, and learn a little about the area.
Fireworks!
As long as no one has issues with loud sounds, this is a great way to get free entertainment for the family and get out of the chaos that is moving. If you have a family member who does not enjoy the loud sounds, make sure to know when and where it is so you can avoid any of these noises. The last thing anyone in a stressed out, PCS family needs is another reason to be stressed out.
Grow Roots
If you jump into the festivities once arriving, this helps your family plug in and put down roots early. The military can move military service members at any time, and while the family can opt to stay put, if you move as a family unit each time it is important to plug in as soon as possible. The July 4th holiday is a great time to jump in as there are typically many different types or events to choose from, and you can take your pick at what suits you and your family’s needs.
If you are moving this summer, or perhaps it is your first summer at your new duty station, it is time to jump in and find those fun July 4th events! Building connections with your community is a great way to get plugged in, and quickly.
