The Fourth is about a long, easy day outside. This Fourth of July party checklist covers the cookout, the cooler, the decorations and the safety basics for fireworks and sun.
Grilled classics — burgers, hot dogs and a veggie option — plus corn, watermelon, chips and a red-white-and-blue dessert, and more ice than you think. The menu is laid out in the food section.
How do I keep pets safe on the Fourth of July?
Keep them indoors in a quiet room during fireworks, with ID tags on in case they bolt. Many pets go missing around the Fourth because fireworks frighten them.