It seems like summer hit us incredibly fast, and Independence Day came out of nowhere. How did this happen? What matters is what we’re going to do about it. To that end, I offer up this cheat sheet for hosting a super easy, no-fuss Fourth of July shindig.

After all, what would one of this country’s most beloved and joyful holidays be without a good party, a handful of friends to share our patriotism with, and a stress-free atmosphere? This is a day that should be casual and communal, where loved ones can chill out together without the host feeling concerned about everything being perfect.

Here are five steps to throwing a quick, fun Fourth party in a nick of time. Don’t forget the sparklers!

Send up a flare

Since this is a last-minute gathering, there’s no need for printed and mailed invitations. Just go for online invites, email, texts, or social media. Send out an invite as soon as you can and let everyone know that you get that it’s late in the game, but add that that’s half the fun. If they don’t have plans yet? They’re in luck. This is their chance to jump on the R.S.V.P. for some last-minute revelry.

Call in the reinforcements

With a casual gathering like this, there’s absolutely zero reason why you should be doing all the work. Make it clear that this is a pot luck event. Request that guests bring specific items, and give them some leeway to get creative on their own. (I’ll often suggest to one friend they bring vodka-marinated melon chunks, but they might bring tequila-soaked watermelon instead; and another to bring a cheese platter, but they may say they’d rather bring a mezze plate.) Either way, just make sure you’re not doing it all yourself, and tell them to keep in touch about what they’re bringing to avoid duplicates.

Grill, baby, grill

Pretty much no one wants a fuss on July Fourth. So just plan on simple skewers. Or burgers and dogs. Or fish — quickly marinated in a light soy-garlic sauce or simply brushed with olive oil and served with an herb-y sauce (a chimichurri for example, or a green goddess). The point is, fancy food is just overrated on this particular holiday. So plan on easy outdoor cooking, and passing the platters as the food comes off the heat.

Light up the Night

You know the fireworks will be in the sky already, so just add some more magical ambience of your own with a few extra touches — like candles that multitask to keep bugs away. La Jolie Muse’s 3 Piece Citronella Large Scented Jar Candle Set ($35.99 for 3 on amazon.com) does just that.

Tune in

Got your playlist ready? If not, just rely on a premade one from your favorite music membership. And if this isn’t something you feel like dealing with, then don’t hesitate to simply treat it like one of the dishes at the party — Just ask one of your music-obsessed guests to take care of it, so you don’t need to. After all, relaxing together is the name of today’s game. For some super playlist suggestions, check out Brett Milano’s selections on Page 19.