How to Tailgate at a Fireworks Display

Tailgating is not only for sporting events. Fourth of July is a great time for a tailgating party. Pack up a cooler of drinks, your barbecue grill, and grab a spot to enjoy the fireworks display. If you have to arrive early to grab a good spot, why not throw a tailgating party?

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cooler for drinks
• Cooler for raw meat
• Cold salad
• Marshmallows
• Toppings for marshmallows
• Bottled water
• Napkins or wet wipes

Supplies for a Tailgating Party

1. Arrive early at the fireworks location to get a spot with a great view.

2. Secure your grill with bungee cords, preferably in the back of a truck.

3. Bring lawn chairs for relaxing and blankets to wrap up in if it gets chilly.

4. Make sure everyone has a jacket or sweatshirt.

5. Pack sparklers and toys to keep kids busy while they wait. Coloring books, matchbox cars and Frisbees are all easy to transport.

6. Bring a cell phone so you can call friends and find them in the crowd.

Food for a Tailgating Party

7. Pack a cooler with crushed ice and plenty of canned or bottled beverages.

8. Keep raw chicken and beef cold with ice packs in their own separate cooler to avoid cross contamination.

9. Prepare a pasta or potato salad the day before the fireworks, so you can enjoy the holiday.

10. Roast marshmallows over the grill, and dress them up traditional roasted marshmallows by dipping them in mini M&M's, toasted coconut flakes, or colorful jimmies.

11. Bring plenty of bottled water, not only to drink, but also to wash sticky hands and faces.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't forget to bring marshmallow roasting sticks. You can purchase inexpensive metal ones anywhere camping supplies are sold.
• A fireworks display is a family affair, so limit alcohol consumption. Also, have a designated driver if you are planning on having even a few drinks.

Resources

• Tailgating America is a comprehensive site about how to tailgate.