A Sizzling Backyard Fourth of July

Summer is in full swing, the grills are sizzling, vegetable gardens are starting to bloom, and the sound of splashing in backyard pools and sprinklers can be heard throughout the neighborhood. The Fourth of July is finally upon us, and even though we won’t make our usual treks to see the fireworks this year, we can still celebrate. Here are a few ideas for your festivities:

Bring the Boston Pops to your backyard! Keith Lockhart and the Boston Symphony Orchestra won’t be on the Esplanade this summer but the show WILL go on. The Pops are live-streaming a ‘Salute to Our Heroes’ concert that you can display on a screen in your own yard. Here’s a DIY screen courtesy of HGTV you can make from basic bedsheets. If you’re in the market for a projector, outdoor mini models are available starting under $100, but you could also simply play the music through speakers connected to your phone or other device and forgo watching the video.

Fireworks displays are canceled in many cities and towns, but you can light up your own sky with festive lighting. String up patriotic red, white, and blue paper lanterns or multicolor twinkle lights above your deck or patio.

Adjust your barbeque menu with social distancing in mind. Burgers, hot dogs, and corn on the cob make a great contactless meal — pull them off the grill with tongs or a spatula and everyone can take their own. Butcher Boy carries our own burgers and natural casing hot dogs, as well as marinated meats that you can grill any way you’d like. Instead of putting out the usual bowls of chips, consider providing individual bags for your guests to choose from. For dessert, check out the great selection of single pastries and cupcakes in our bakery case, ready to enjoy with no prep.

What’s a summer holiday without a festive and fruity beverage? These Raspberry and Lemon Rose Sparklers are easy to make and require no contact – everyone can mix their own. For a non-alcoholic version, use club soda, lemonade or a light juice in place of the rose. Make Butcher Boy your one-stop shop, where you can pick up all of those meats, sides, sweets, and refreshments at once.

Don’t forget to keep wipes and hand sanitizer available throughout the day. We’d love to hear how you plan to celebrate this year. Please share ideas with our community on Facebook or tag @ButcherBoyMarket on Instagram.