Tips on Hosting an Epic Fourth of July Get Together

By Molly Lovelady

Tips on Hosting an Epic Fourth of July Get Together

The 4th of July is swiftly approaching just in time for the miraculous comeback of full blown social gatherings, and many are planning to make this 4th of July a memorable and special event to make up for missed time and human connection this last year.

If you’re one of those making up for lost time and planning on hosting a huge 4th of July celebration, here’s a check-list of must haves for your celebration so that you don’t overlook any details. 

Planning Your Menu:

First and most importantly, be sure you have the perfect food and drink for your celebration:

Cold Drinks:

We’re in the middle of a major hot summer, so be sure to not just include your favorite adult beverages, but also throw in some hydrating ones as well. 

Beverages to have on hand:

Appetizers:

Amazing drinks at the beginning of a party go hand in hand with equally amazing appetizers. These will ensure your guests have something to munch on while you finish cooking, and appetizers are always a great idea whenever alcoholic beverages are abundant. Checkout 5 light hors d’oeuvres to kick off your party - a few of our favorite appetizers to bring out when the drinks start pouring.

The Main Course - The Best Steak on Earth:

When grilling on the 4th of July, you’ll need the best steak for the best bash.

This means you’ll need USDA prime beef as well as the perfect cut of meat, such as a prime beef ribeye, which is a cut from the rib section of the cow and one of the most flavorsome pieces you can find (it’s also extremely marbled and tender). 

Make your 4th of July celebration even easier this year and have the perfect cut of prime beef shipped straight to your door for this special occasion. Check out our Gunslinger box - 4 USDA Prime 22 ounce bone-in ribeyes that are tender, marbled, and juicy wonderfulness. 

Once you’ve ordered the best steak, here’s a few more things to keep in mind while preparing your steak:

Side Dishes:

Every delicious grilled steak needs equally delicious sides, and the 4th of July is the perfect opportunity to try out some of these quick and tasty sides. Here’s a few for the grill as well as a few that can be whipped up in the kitchen:

Dessert:

Throw in some fun desserts to top the night off! Here’s an easy dessert idea from That Skinny Chick Can Bake that we love - red, white, and blue strawberries. They are perfectly refreshing after indulging in a grilled steak meal on a hot day. 

What You Need:

  • 12 large strawberries (with stems intact)
  • 5 ounces White Chocolate Melts (about half a package)
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons dark or light blue sanding sugar

What To Do:

  1. Wash and dry the strawberries thoroughly.
  2. Line a baking sheet with wax or parchment paper, and then set it aside.
  3. Melt the chocolate melts in a small, deep bowl (according to the package instructions). Add the oil, if you’re using it. 
  4. Pour the sugar into a small, deep bowl (if you plan to dip the berries, make sure you add enough sugar so that it’s deep enough for dipping).
  5. Using the stem, dip the strawberry into the white chocolate 2/3 to 3/4 of the way up the berry.
  6. Let the excess drip off, and then use a spoon to sprinkle the blue sugar across the bottom 1/3 of the berry (trying to make a straight line).  Alternatively, you can try to dip the berry into the sugar before the chocolate hardens (the first technique may be easier, but the second may give you a more even sugar coating).
  7. Place the berries (decorated sides up) on the baking sheet and allow the chocolate to harden.

Enjoy! 

Decor/Supplies:

You have the food, drink, and grilling down, but here’s a quick reminder of possible supplies and decor that you might want to have on hand as well:

  • Party cups
  • Ice
  • Coolers
  • Folding tables or picnic tables
  • Paper plates
  • Compostable cutlery
  • Water dispenser
  • Festive napkins and tablecloths
  • Festive centerpiece
  • Lawn chairs and/or blankets
  • Flags
  • Sunscreen
  • First aid kit
  • Umbrellas (or something else for shade)
  • Patriotic party favors
  • Music playing device and portable speakers

Activities:

Last but not least, here’s a quick list of ideas for 4th of July activities and fun for all:

Conclusion:

With this checklist, you’re sure to have the ultimate 4th of July celebration and make the most of your time with family and friends without the worry of forgetting something and last-minute store runs. 

 

Photo Credit: Stephanie McCabe