Fireworks aside, when I think of 4th of July, I think of parties! Whether you are hosting or headed to a party this year, here are some ideas to keep in mind.

Food

I’m all about minimal prep work with maximum payoff. Hummus is the perfect way to achieve both! Then you can free up your time to gather around the kitchen counter with friends and family and connect over fresh food.

Sabra Hummus is my go-to. It’s delicious and available in more than a dozen flavors, so you know there’s an option for everyone. Serve it up with fresh veggies, pita or chips and you have the perfect appetizer before the BBQ. Even on an everyday basis, Sabra Hummus is great for that unofficial meal between work or school and dinner.

Here's another better-for-you and unexpected snacks for your friends and family. Both of these options will add unique and exciting flavor to your July 4th spread. Think of Garden of Eatin’ Red Hot Blues as fireworks for your table. These tortilla chips are red, hot and blue – the perfect patriotic snack, made with non-GMO ingredients, organic blue corn and a kick of cayenne pepper.

And don’t settle for plain potato chips. Instead, serve your guests TERRA Sweet Potato Chips to set your snacks apart from the pack. These non-GMO vegetable chips transform real whole sweet potatoes into a crinkle cut, perfectly crunchy snack. The perfect blend of a little salt and a little sweet!

Speaking of sweet, I love to have lots of fruit on hand! It’s fresh, delicious and it serves as decor too. This dessert tray took me all of 5 minutes to put together with berries, white chocolate pretzels and blueberries.

Safety

Nowt that we have food covered, before you and the family hit the pool or the beach here are few safety tips to keep in mind from State Farm®.

1. If it’s not a designated time for enjoying the pool, make it impossible for the kids to sneak out alone by Installing Alarms on doors opening out to a pool or hot tub.

2. Restrict access to above ground pools by removing ladders and slides when pool is not in use.

3. Make sure your pool is surrounded by a 4 ft fence.

When you are enjoying the water, be part of the action. Never leave a child unattended near water. Keep your eyes on the kids at all times AND stay within arm’s reach of young children and avoid distractions. Remember, friends make everything more fun! Swim with a buddy.

Now you are ready to party. Have a happy, tasty and safe 4th of July!

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