Why Wasps Love Your Fourth of July Party
Yellow jackets and other wasps love your Fourth of July party for the same reasons your guests do. Take a look at what your party has to offer from a wasp’s perspective:
- Sugary drinks
Sodas, juice boxes, cocktails, and popsicles are wasp magnets, especially when left in open containers. - Grilled meats and protein-packed dishes
Wasps are drawn to meat just as much as your hungry guests are. - Trash and leftovers
What humans throw away can be a feast for wasps. Overflowing garbage bins and dropped scraps are an open invitation. - Bright clothing and floral prints
It’s common to wear patriotic red, white, and blue on the Fourth, but those bright colors (especially if they mimic flowers) can attract foraging wasps.
Common Mistakes That Invite Wasps
Once you know what attracts wasps, avoiding the simple mistakes that encourage them to stick around becomes easier. Here are some of the most common issues that lead to wasp problems during outdoor events:
- Leaving food uncovered
- Not wiping up spills or crumbs quickly
- Using open-top cups or cans
- Letting trash pile up or go uncovered
- Wearing bright or floral-patterned clothing
- Setting up near nesting areas (eaves, deck posts, or trees)
Wasp-Proofing Your Celebration
You can take the sting out of your Independence Day party with a bit of preparation. These easy adjustments help keep wasps from becoming unwanted guests:
- Keep food covered when not being eaten—even individual plates.
- Use drink containers with lids and straws.
- Clean up immediately after meals and snacks.
- Dispose of trash in sealed, wasp-resistant containers.
- Avoid scented candles, perfumes, or lotions that may attract insects.
- Choose more neutral-colored clothing for outdoor events.
- Set up your party away from known nesting spots, like eaves or overgrown trees.
What to Do If You See Wasps During Your Party
You may still spot a wasp or two buzzing around even with precautions. Don’t panic—wasps are usually uninterested in stinging unless threatened. Stay calm, avoid swatting, and slowly move away.
If you notice a nest on or near your party area, relocate the gathering to a safer section of your yard. It’s also smart to have allergy medication or an emergency sting kit on hand, especially if any of your guests are sensitive to insect stings.
When to Call the Pest Control Pros
Seeing the occasional wasp isn’t unusual. But if you’re noticing them frequently or spotting several in one area, a nest may be nearby. That’s when it’s time to call in the professionals at Big Time Pest Control.
Never attempt to remove a wasp nest on your own—it’s risky and often ineffective. Store-bought sprays rarely get the job done and can actually make wasps more aggressive. Our experienced team knows how to safely locate and eliminate nests, so you don’t have to take chances.
Trust Big Time Pest Control to Keep Your Summer Pest-Free
At Big Time Pest Control, we’ve been helping Northern California families enjoy their homes and backyards without the stress of stinging insects for over 20 years. From Sacramento to Redding to Anderson to surrounding areas, we know where wasps like to hide—and how to get rid of them.
Our licensed, local technicians will inspect your property, find nesting spots, and provide the treatments you need to enjoy your summer in peace. What’s more, we offer year-round home pest control services that include coverage for wasps and other pests like ants and cockroaches.
Reach out today so you can prep for a wasp-free Fourth of July with confidence.
