Dr. Pepper 4th of July

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When throwing a 4th of July barbeque, one of the most fun parts of planning is how to make it memorable, while still keeping within a budget. The key here is “within budget”- its easy to make a memorable day while spending a ton of money on renting outdoor fun stuff like a cotton candy machine, popcorn machine, bouncy house, etc. The real trick is to make memories and fun while being reasonable and money smart. Below are a few tips to help during the coming 4th of July holiday weekend.

– Variety. Variety is the spice of life giving your guests lots of options is key. Have classics like hot dogs and hamburgers, but also things for those vegetarians out there too like portabella mushrooms grilled like hamburgers, lots of salad options, and also some veggie burgers. With options,inted your guests will have a hard time picking just one making them happy and full. If it isn’t feasible for you to foot the bill for this alone have a pot luck barbecue where guests bring salads, sides, desserts, drinks etc. This will work in your favor as long as there is communication, the last thing you want is five people bringing the same potato salad.

– Drinks. Have lots of drinks don’t bank on lemonade and cola. Dr Pepper is a great way to bring about differences in drink options that kids and adults love. This is especially true with Dr Pepper’s new Summer flavors: Dr Pepper Cherry® and Dr Pepper Vanilla Float®. If you are feeling adventurous have a float stand where your guests can make their own ice cream floats using the soda already available and various ice cream varieties like vanilla, strawberry and chocolate. Lots of ice lots of coolers and lots of fun.

– Ethnic. Food from around the world can add a variety of spices, smells, colors, and most of all variety. Special marinades can help out a ton and also make ethnic cooking incredibly easy. Just be sure to follow directions and keep flavors separate. Try to keep the grill clean as well. Following these guidelines will keep your jerk chicken from tasting like the curry tuna. Another idea for marinates is try something unique, a neat idea which I recent stumbled upon was marinating in Dr. Pepper. The 23 flavors really help meat get tender and juicy while adding a unique flavor that most will not be able to put their finger on until you uncover your secret.

No matter what your plans are this 4th of July be sure so include Dr. Pepper in your plans even if you are just a guest coming to a barbecue. I promise coming to the party with Dr. Pepper will always be welcome.

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Dr. Pepper Snapple Group. The opinions and text are all mine.