It’s independence day, y’all. And lest we forget what this day actually means amidst cookouts and fireworks, I’m going to throw it back to 1776 and quote the most important document in our nation’s history.

“...These united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States, that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do.”

Pretty incredible, not to mention worthy of a damn good celebration. So without further ado, I present to you the only guide you’re ever going to need to take full advantage of your “lives, fortunes and sacred honor” (another DOI quote)

1. A body of water

Because it’s summer and because it’s probably going to be pretty hot and also because there’s no better place for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness then at a lake/beach/pool/river/oversized pond. Bonus points if you have boat access. Extra bonus points for waterskis and/or rope swings.

2.An alternative to a body of water

Some of us are not fortunate to have access to a body of water, but the important thing is that you eventually make it outside of the house. That being said, there are also some really cool celebrations all over our great nation where you can live it up in true American fashion – check out this list of the best parades, parties and shindigs to experience this weekend.

3.American flag apparel

I don’t know when it became more customary to wear the Stars and Stripes than to fly them, but I’m all for donning the red white and blue while enjoying your weekend. I myself am a big fan of the flag bathing suits and, of course, the classic “back to back world war champs” shirt. Merica.

4.Sunscreen

This deserves its own number purely for the sake of safety. Whether you’re viewing a parade or wearing a patriotic bathing suit on a body of water, chances are it’s going to be really sunny and you’re going to have so many more regrets if you don’t slap on at least a 30 SPF. The red that you’re sporting this weekend should not be your skin tone. Safety first, kids.

5.Food & Drinks

If you’re anything like me, all activities essentially revolve around food. This weekend should be no different. Summer is cookout season, so haul out the grill (or get really rustic, and build a campfire) and embrace a little outdoor dining. I’m talking s’mores, burgers, barbeque, whatever your hungry and patriotic heart desires. This is also prime time to pull out those frat coolers and put them to good use. Nobody likes warm drinks on the fourth.

6.Fireworks

Undoubtedly the best part of the weekend (and the reason you should get yourself to a body of water) are the pyrotechnics. Whether you catch the massive and incredible New York ones (I’ve unashamedly watched these on television) or light up firecrackers in your driveway, nothing brings the weekend to a close like a good fireworks show. Just be sure that if you’ve decided to set off the ones you bought on the side of the highway, you’re of sound mind and body. I’ve seen perfectly sober people nearly light their neighbor’s house on fire, so please exercise caution.

Even though this guide is geared towards all those lucky individuals who have the day off, I’m going to take a quick second to appreciate everybody who has to work all day on the 4^th because I’ve done that for the past few years and it is straight up hell. Seriously, hats off to you. Regardless of how you’re celebrating this 4^th of July weekend, be safe, be thankful and aim your fireworks away from dwellings and human beings.

And above all, try to keep your lives, fortunes and (not so) sacred honor intact.

Cheers!