You’d think after years of living in the California sunshine, the novelty of a backyard barbecue would wear off. But for the Duchess of Sussex, Independence Day isn't just about the fireworks or the red, white, and blue bunting. It’s actually a pretty big deal for her and Harry personally. Honestly, it’s basically their anniversary—sorta.
See, most people forget that their very second date happened on July 4, 2016. While the rest of London was probably just having a normal Monday, Harry was showing up to Soho House with a pink box of cupcakes. Red, white, and blue ones, specifically. He even joked in his memoir Spare about how Brits have a "very different view" of Independence Day. Nine years later, that little moment has turned into a full-blown family ritual.
The Cupcake Tradition and the Montecito Vibe
This year, the Meghan Markle July 4 celebration wasn't some massive, star-studded gala at a Hollywood estate. It was surprisingly low-key. Meghan hopped onto her Instagram account for her lifestyle brand, As Ever (the pivot from American Riviera Orchard), to show off what they were up to.
She posted this really sweet throwback selfie from that 2016 date, but the real star was the kitchen footage. She was seen whipping up a massive charcuterie board. We're talking star-shaped cheeses, heaps of raspberries, and blueberries—basically a flag made of snacks.
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It wasn't just for show, though.
Meghan mentioned that Archie and Lilibet are now "in on the tradition." The kids aren't just eating the cupcakes anymore; they're helping make them. It’s a far cry from the balcony at Buckingham Palace, that’s for sure. In Montecito, they tend to lean into the local scene. In previous years, they’ve been spotted at the local parade, with Harry carrying Lili on his shoulders while she rocked a blue paisley dress. This year, they seemed to stick closer to home, focusing on that "sun-drenched" California lifestyle she’s been branding so hard lately.
Why This July 4 Felt Different
There was a bit of a shadow over the festivities this time around, though. Word got out that the Sussexes were reportedly left off the guest list for the massive 2026 "America 250" planning sessions. Since they aren't working royals, they aren't part of the official UK-US diplomatic celebrations.
It’s a weird spot to be in.
On one hand, you have Meghan leaning into her "American Girl" roots, selling jam and honey through As Ever. On the other, the official channels are still very much tied to the family she left behind.
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- The Outfit: Meghan was spotted in a blue-and-white striped Ralph Lauren shirt.
- The Jewelry: She paired it with her Logan Hollowell “Call on You Angels” pendant.
- The Vibe: Relaxed, homey, and very "Montecito Mom."
Critics like to call her career a "doom loop" of rebrands, but if you look at the engagement on her July 4 posts, the fans are still there. She sold out of those limited-edition apricot spreads in like, ten minutes. People want a piece of that curated, festive life she’s projecting.
What the Neighbors Saw
Living in Montecito isn't like living in a normal suburb. Your neighbors are Oprah and Ellen. But the 4th of July parade is the one time the whole town actually gets together.
While the Sussexes didn't make a big public walkabout this year, the local chatter suggests they kept things private at their estate. Privacy is the whole reason they moved there, after all. Harry has been vocal about how he loves that his kids can grow up with space to run around—something he felt he never truly had. He’s admitted he doesn't exactly "feel American" yet, but he’s clearly embracing the party.
The Meghan Markle July 4 celebration has become a sort of annual proof-of-concept for their new life. It says: Look, we’re happy, we’re festive, and we’re doing things our way.
How to Get the "Sussex Summer" Look
If you’re trying to replicate that vibe, it’s actually not that complicated. Meghan’s approach to entertaining is all about "elevated basics."
- The Board: Use seasonal fruit (strawberries, blackberries) to create natural color blocks.
- The Decor: White flowers (like hydrangeas) keep it from looking too "tacky-patriotic."
- The Food: Stick to the "second date" cupcakes. It adds a story to the meal.
Looking ahead to next year, things are going to get even more intense. With the US turning 250 in 2026, the pressure for the Sussexes to define their role in American public life is only going to grow. Will they be at the big parades in D.C., or still hosting cupcake parties in Santa Barbara?
For now, the Duchess seems content with the latter. She’s building a brand on the idea that home and family come first, even if that home is a multi-million dollar mansion. It’s a specific kind of American Dream, curated to perfection.
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To bring a bit of this style to your own hosting, start by focusing on one signature family "story" or tradition—like the Sussex cupcakes—rather than trying to over-decorate. Keeping your gatherings centered on a personal memory makes the celebration feel more authentic and less like a staged event.