Contributed by John

Fourth of July is around the corner and it’s time to throw a good old-fashioned picnic. It’s not as tough as you think, especially when you follow these simple steps. After all, it’s all about having good food and great fun, right?

First thing you want to do is make it a family affair. Invite friends and families and their kids, don’t leave anyone out. The more the merrier! Be sure to ask everyone to wear red, white and blue to go along with the whole patriotic theme. Be sure to plan your picnic early in the afternoon, that way, you can all catch a fireworks show after.

You want to make sure you decorate with a patriotic theme. Purchase tablecloths or blankets, plates, cups and napkins in red, white and blue. Remember to mix and match for that 4th of July feel.

Don’t forget the entertainment! If you have a portable radio handy, be sure to have patriotic music playing, such as “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” “America the Beautiful” and – of course – Sousa marches, especially “The Stars and Stripes Forever.” This will really help set the mood.

Stock a cooler with cold drinks. Chances are you’re going to be outside, so be sure to keep everyone happy and hydrated with some cool lemonade or iced tea.

Set up some great traditional American games like baseball or flag football. The winners should get a small prize like mini flags or a goodie bag with patriotic stickers, pencils, toys, etc… They will help keep the kids active and happy, as well as build appetites for the great food to come!

Now for my favorite part, the food! Serve “all-American” foods such as hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad,
deviled eggs, corn on the cob, watermelon, lemonade, apple pie or gelatin desserts made in patriotic colors.
Have a small supply of tofu dogs or veggie burgers for any vegetarians in the group.

All that’s left now is to enjoy the fireworks show. Be sure to be safe and obey all local laws.
We don’t want to ruin a great holiday with any injuries now do we?