How to Throw a Killer BBQ this Fourth of July

So you’re the one throwing a barbeque this year. Your chairs are packed and you’re ready to head off to the local July Fourth Parade, knowing that shortly after the bagpipes and fire engines pass, you’ll be scrambling back home to prepare for company. If you’re an old pro at the game, you know the ins and outs of humid-holiday-barbeque. But if you’re wondering how to ensure the town raves about this year’s barbeque for years to come, be sure to tackle these tips!
1. Cater to the Foodies
Most likely, those attending your get-together will be expecting some type of alcoholic beverage, and nothing says Fourth of July like home-made Sangria. Check out this “Best Party Sangrea Recipe” recipe from Stacy Slinkard at wine.about.com
1 Bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Rioja, Zinfandel, Shiraz)
1 Lemon cut into wedges
1 Orange cut into wedges
1 Lime cut into wedges
2 Tbsp sugar
Splash of orange juice or lemonade
2 Shots of gin or triple sec (optional)
1 Cup of raspberries or strawberries (may use thawed or frozen)
1 Small can of diced pineapples (with juice)
4 Cups ginger ale

In addition to rich sips, your friends and family will all admit that half the reason they came over is grilled meat. Rather than the typical hamburger/hot dog duo, impress your friends with these Kraft Sweet BBQ Chicken Kebabs.
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-1/2-inch pieces
2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (1-1/2 inch)
1each red and green pepper, cut into 1-1/2-inch pieces
½ cup KRAFT Original Barbecue Sauce
3 Tbsp. frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed

2. Liven Things Up!
Although your red-white-and-blue clad friends will be content chatting it up on the deck, you’ll gain major points when you whip out the lawn games. Croquet, horseshoes and “bags” are well-loved, and can be played by kids and adults alike. Be sure to consider the weather, too, when preparing the fun. Have games set out inside, like a deck of cards, Bananagrams, or Apples to Apples – just in case rain decides to join the party.

3. Make Sure Sparks Fly
When everything is said and done, your friends are in high spirits, and you’re done fussing over refilling the ice bucket, it’s time to relax under a star filled sky. Set up a safe place in the lawn or street, clear from trees and traffic, and be sure to have at least 15 solid minutes of fireworks at your disposal. Then hand off fire-work duty to a trusted friend or family member – now’s your time to kick back. Afraid of what the neighbors might say? Invite them to join in too! Fourth of July without fireworks is like Christmas without Santa – it’s simply impossible.

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