From Linda Larsen,
Your Guide to Busy Cooks.
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The Fourth of July is such an easy holiday to celebrate. The theme, colors, and even lots of traditional foods and recipes are built right in. July 4th red, white and blue accessories are everywhere! It's easy to make your backyard or picnic spot the most colorful in your town for entertaining.

Tips for Inviting Friends and Decorating

• When you invite family and friends to your bash, make sure you specify this is a casual, active party!
• Decorations can include a red, white and blue tablecloth and napkins, casual pottery, candles in the holiday colors (my favorite), and of course lots of flags.
• If you are hosting this party at your home on July 4th, think about lighting after dark. Sitting on a patio or porch on a warm summer night, waiting for the fireworks to begin after eating fabulous party food, is one of the highlights of summer.
• Tiny white lights add a wonderful touch, as do candles, tiki torches, paper lanterns, and oil lamps. Make sure you have great outdoor games for the kids and adults. Badminton, croquet, horseshoes, lawn bowling, touch football and water games add to the fun.
• In case of inclement weather, set up a picnic on the floor of your living room! Kids of all ages will love this celebration.

The "Traditional" menu with recipes on the next page is my family's Fourth of July meal. You'll also find a "Red, White and Blue" menu, plus recipes for a portable picnic and a totally make ahead meal so your party is special and easy on you.

Go to the next page to get the recipes and menus!