4^th of July is right around the corner and it is time to start making plans for how to celebrate.  We have compiled a few ideas of celebrations near your Sherman Oaks apartment and included a few recipe and picnic ideas too.

Head over to Warner Park at5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd., in Woodland Hills for a Fireworks Extravaganza. From 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm you can taste foods from over 15 local restaurants, purchase arts & crafts from local vendors and businesses.  Enjoy a free concert and a 20-minute fireworks display.  Parking is $20.

Head over to Santa Monica for the annual 4^th of July parade. The parade begins at 9:30 am at Main Street and Pico Street and moves south on Main to Marine, then heads west toward the beach parking lot.  Free to the public, the parade includes bands, cyclists, and vintage cars.  Dress in Red, White and Blue and join the fun.  Stay after to enjoy the beach.

Pack a picnic and head to Van Nuys Sherman Recreation Center and Park (Huston Street Sherman Oaks). Travel a bit further to Amir’s Garden (off Zoo drive) in Griffith Park for a picnic.  Take a short hike with scenic views and picnic near the entrance of the garden where you will find tables, benches and picnic spots.

Looking for some fun and patriotic treats for the 4^th of July, here are a few, we think you will love.

Summer and Watermelon go hand in hand, but let’s face it eating watermelon can be a bit messy. For a drip free watermelon this 4^th of July, try cutting the watermelon into triangles ahead of time, place it in the freezer, but do not let it freeze.  Purchase muffin papers and make a small slit in the middle.  Next take a popsicle stick and insert it in to the middle of the muffin paper and the rind of the watermelon.  Enjoy watermelon without the mess.
Red, White and Blue potato salad is a great choice for your 4^th of July celebration. Purchase red, white and blue potatoes from your local grocer and use your favorite potato salad recipe for a patriotic version of this picnic staple.

Patriotic parfaits in mason jars are a great and healthy dessert. Cut strawberries and blueberries to bite sizes, purchase whipped cream, there are several healthy options, but frozen works best. Fill the bottom of a mason jar with a layer of strawberries, then a layer of blueberries, next put a layer of the frozen whipped cream on top and repeat until you fill the jar.  Put the mason jar cover on top and put in a cold cooler or the fridge until you are ready to serve.