There's nothing better than hot dogs, corn on the cob, and watermelon for the Fourth. But if you're in search of an adventure and a more creative way to celebrate, might I suggest scoping out the country's regional food scene? Whether you're in Cincinnati or Central Texas, the United States of America is a veritable chest of gastronomic treasures just waiting to be discovered. A few of my Read more

The 4th of July is this weekend, and that means it's time to get festive! Show your patriotic pride by cooking with red, white, and blue ingredients. Many of the season's most delicious offerings — strawberries, vanilla ice cream, and blueberries — fit the color scheme, so don't be afraid to get creative. Here are 10 dishes to inspire your all-American celebration. Read more

You've probably seen lots of intricate nail art plastered all over the Internet, but if the notion of working with special polishing tools to create the impressive looks has you daunted, fear not. This Fourth of July, you can simply apply Big Ruby Tattoos' stick-on star designs ($12). The pack includes 10 star images, with 42 tats for the fingers and 44 additional ones for the pinkies and big Read more

Since the Obamas' state dinner last week featured classic American food, I've had traditional cuisine on the mind. We asked you to share what dishes you consider signature to the US, and the responses were deliciously varied, from apple pie to barbecue. Here, I've rounded up 10 recipes, inspired by your suggestions, for a good old American feast. Read more

Can you picture George and Martha Washington lounging in a pair of Eames chairs peering out their floor-to-ceiling glass walled home? Yeah, me neither. But I have no problem fantasizing myself in a colonial cottage in the northeastern states. While many of us, myself included, covet midcentury modern homes, there's something about classic pillared and white wooden siding that never gets old. In Read more

The Fourth is a fine time to celebrate our country's independence with friends and fams. Why not attend the festivities looking fashionably patriotic? I'm not talking about a baggy tee with the American flag plastered on the front — it might work for my dad, but not me. I'm thinking more along the lines of this rad Free People straw fedora or a sparkly tank. Cute, right? Keep clicking to see Read more

Barbecues are a great way to chill out with your friends, but they can be a disaster for your waistline. Be proactive and bring side dishes and desserts you know are healthy and diet-friendly. This way you can spread the health while ensuring you have something to eat. Here are some ideas. Read more

The railroads are an important part of American history, and Rails-to-Trails is committed to preserving that history. This group transforms old railroad lines into recreational paths for biking, running, rollerblading, and walking. They've created a list of trails great for viewing the pyrotechnics of Independence Day away from crowds. Plus, you'll burn a few calories. Courtesy of Read more

No dessert screams Fourth of July more than the classic flag cake. Making this fun and festive dessert is a great way to introduce your children to cooking. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned master, I've rounded up a bunch of recipes for you to choose from. If cake isn't your thing, don't worry, there's even a flag pie! To find the flag cake recipe that suites your culinary needs, click Read more

If you're anything like me, you've started to obsess about what you're going to make over the long holiday weekend. A grill is definitely involved, but what else? From barbecued chicken to macaroni salad, there are so many delicious options! Since food for the Fourth is on my mind, I created an awesome menu to inspire you. It's filled with classic dishes that highlight Summer's wonderful produce. Read more