Firedup – Your last-minute Fourth of July guide

Here are seven ways to make your Independence Day a true celebration. Do them all. They’re easy. Otherwise, England wins.

Looking for a healthier alternative to the typical processed grocery store hot dog? Trader Joe’s offers jumbo all-natural beef franks in packs of four for $4.99. Be sure to buy sizeable buns, though; these franks really are jumbo. traderjoes.com

Glasses are practical, but a pair of killer shades on a sunny day of partying is enviable. Stop by locally owned Smarter Eyewear for a pair of Krewe du Optic lenses, designed in the good ole USA—New Orleans, actually. The Charles style in matte oyster—one of the brand’s top sellers—goes for $145. kreweduoptic.com

Local Etsy entrepreneur Lauren Haddox crafts personalized, printable party decorations, and this summer she’s celebrating by offering a free downloadable Fourth of July party kit from her shop. Visit Lauren Haddox Design for festive cupcake toppers, bottle wrappers and more. etsy.com/shop/LaurenHaddoxDesign

Whether you’re lighting fireworks on the pier or chasing your children in the backyard, good footwear is essential. Try a pair of comfy sandals from Frock Candy. These strappy gladiators are $38.99. frockcandy.com

For the taste of summertime in the South, try Cathead Honeysuckle Vodka. Distilled in Mississippi and sweetened with Louisiana cane sugar, this unique flavor mixes perfectly with lemonade and fresh fruit. Pick up a bottle for $19 at Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s. catheadvodka.com

There’s nothing more American than firing up the grill for some burgers on the Fourth of July. Why not switch it up this year with sliders? Past Best of 225 winner Goodwood Hardware & Outdoors carries this mini burger kit for $26.99. goodwoodhardware.com

Beer flows on Independence Day unlike any other this month, and Louisiana’s own Abita Brewery makes some great party brews. To offer guests variety (and keep your ice chest filled with patriotic colors), go with the hoppy Jockamo IPA and the smooth Strawberry Harvest Ale, each in six-packs for $8.95. abita.com