The 4th of July has always been a favorite holiday of mine because it, like many good birthday parties, tends to include friends and family and good food—and it’s in the summer!
But I especially enjoy our Davis celebrations: the day begins with a very Americana kiddie parade and some bike races that leave you with that “I love this little town”-feeling; and then we cool off in the pool with friends before walking over to community park to catch the fireworks.
This year, however, we will also be watching the skies and hoping for cool, wind-free conditions for all of our neighbors who are braving nearby wildfires.
What are your plans? Here are some links if you’re looking for some last-minute inspiration…
On Food
I’m always trying to re-create the Shack Burger.
This is a great round-up of interesting toppings to make hot dogs extra special.
Looking to up your potato salad? Saveur has eight surprising recipes, from a more traditional red onion take, to a slightly-spiced version with tarragon and shallots, to increasingly adventurous with crab meat or herring!
Or your corn-on-the-cob? The Kitchn has a round-up of six less-expected toppings.
This cilantro-lime grilled watermelon would a fun new spin on a classic.
Dessert inspiration: red, white, and blue smashed pavlova.
On Drinks
I’m ready to bring out the Rosé Frozé again.
Something like these red, white, and blue buzzed cherry bombs are easy, but sure to be a hit!
Who knew watermelon jello shots could be so pretty?
Beyond simple syrup: a Real Simple round-up of lemonades–something for every taste.
Sparkling star-spangled sangria!
On Style
How to take those pretty photos with sparklers
On Sales
Some favorites going on Wednesday…
30% off select items at Of A Kind (I especially like the Jetta jumpsuit and the Cohen Tulip tank)
20% off sitewide at Serena & Lily
Up to 30% off patio furniture and decor at Target, plus an extra 15% with code AMERICA (love the lines of the Henning set!)
Extra 30% off all sale items at Urban Outfitters
Extra 40% off sale with code SALE40 at Levis. (Time to try that wedgie fit!)
20% off sitewide at Madewell with code SPARKLER
25% off sitewide at Solid & Striped with code USA25 (a post with one of my picks)
On the Occasion
Emma Lazarus’s sonnet, The New Colossus, the last lines of which are famously inscribed on The Statue of Liberty.
Finding optimism from Frederick Douglas’s 1852 Independence Day address
A story about Jasper John’s “Flag.”
Also, when you’re grieving for America, “it’s tricky to translate whatever ‘loving one’s country’ means.” (via Even*Cleveland)
P.S. My 4th of July pinboard.
[Photo: Classic (make-ahead) Buttermilk Fried Chicken from Country Living’s Summer Picnic Recipes]
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