The 4th of July means celebration of freedom and independence, of family and friends, and of community. And like any celebration, food is an integral part. Fourth of July food means hot dogs on the grill, homemade potato salad, fresh summer fruit and icy-cold beverages. This Independence Day, celebrate with local foods. Its so easy to do in Idaho!

Start with the dogs (beef, pork, chorizo) made by local companies like Falls Brand and Gem Pack and found at most local grocery stores. Serve them on crusty rolls made by Zeppole, Alpicella, Harvest Classic or Great Harvest Bakeries, all baked fresh daily in the Treasure Valley. Idaho’s famous tubers should star in your favorite family potato salad recipe along with Idaho onions, local eggs and fresh herbs. And although it’s too early for Idaho watermelons, enjoy our sweet dark cherries. Idaho cherries, grown in the warm Sunnyslope area of Caldwell and in the Emmett Valley are now available at the orchards, farmers markets, and local grocery stores. And if seed-spitting is on your holiday activity list, cherry pits work just as well as watermelon seeds! Before the fireworks start, enjoy homemade ice cream made with Idaho milk, cream, and sugar. Or enjoy Cloverleaf Creamery ice cream, made fresh daily in Buhl, and top it off with fresh local strawberries, blackberries, raspberries or Rocky Mountain blueberries!

Need to find these local foods for your July 4th celebration or want some new recipe ideas? Just visit our Find Local Products page and start a new “local” tradition for your picnic or BBQ.