We consulted Sara Franklin, owner and president of Social Scene Events, about throwing the perfect Fourth of July Party in the nation’s capital. Below are some tips and tricks of the trade. Food Don’t stray from tradition! You can do anything from upscale barbecue with short ribs and tenderloin, to …

While you’re rightfully celebrating America remembering the Declaration of Independence, George Washington, and other American classics, perhaps you’ve forgotten another Independence Day. A fictional Independence Day. One from 1996. Never forget folks. Especially if we’re being invaded. “We will not go quietly into the night … Today we celebrate our …

Do you have iced tea bags 5 tablespoons St-Germain (elderflower liqueur) 1 1/2 cups white rum 3/4 cup dry vermouth 1 teaspoon Boston Bittahs 3/4 cup water lemons on hand? Then you have yourself a Boston Tea Party. Drink up, friends. Drink up for America. And freedom. And bald eagles. …

Real American hero Matt Cohen (DCist) made a sweet American playlist. Listen and salute. via

Now go out there and get your red, white and blue on. Have fun and stay safe. Photo by John Sonderman

Photo credit: Jeanine and Jack Fireworks and revelry have come and gone and our livers are on strike.  Appease your body with some much-needed detox in the form of these wholesome and filling salads.  Crisp and delicious, your body might not evict you after all. Green Bean, Potato, and Corn …

Photo credit: National Watermelon Promotion Board The 4th of July is here, and you know what that means: grill baby, grill.  Burgers, chicken, ribs (dare we say veggie dogs?) — all gorgeously charred and slathered in barbecue sauce.  But what of that other summer treat?  Every good American knows watermelon …

Famous congratulations are in order for Michael Steel and Mary Kathryn Covert. The two were engaged last night on the Speaker’s Balcony as they enjoyed Fourth of July fireworks. Photo h/t Bryant Avondoglio

Guns and fireworks — an American tradition can now be celebrated in D.C. ROLL CALL -Breaking News … Court Overturns D.C. Gun Ban June 26, 2008, 10:29 A.M. The U.S. Supreme Court this morning overturned a D.C. law prohibiting private citizens from possessing handguns in the District of Columbia.