All-Americana Holiday

When was the last time you spruced up your Fourth of July traditions with something new? We all expect picnics, parades and fireworks, but what about adding a little bit of the unexpected to enhance an already colorful holiday? The July issue of Country Living magazine says that including a little Americana in your celebration is as easy as apple pie.

* Add some Americana. Spruce up inside and out with folk art and country holiday antiques. Pillows and picnic blankets with flag motifs, wooden signs and colorful antique tableware and utensils can add a creative touch to a fun-filled gathering.

* Decorate with flags. Add little flags to flower arrangements; display them in buckets or galvanized pails for a colorful tribute to Old Glory.

* Wear it. Country Living says blue denim, colorful sandals and a hat or cap are All-American attire for a great celebration.

* Have a star-spangled barbecue. Grilled lobster, potato salad and blueberries with whipped cream create a banner picnic. Country Living suggests spreading it all out on a red, white and blue cloth for a feast to remember.