It's 4th of July weekend baby! Time to let loose in the name of freedom. Celebrate smart, be safe and make some good times last. Here is your unofficial/official guide to having an American 4th of July.

1. Cornhole.

Some credit Germany for coming up with the creation of cornhole in the 14th century, others tell tall tales of the Native Americans coming up with the idea, but whoever created cornhole is brilliant. This can turn your 4th of July into a competitive event

(Just like the Young's 4th of July...we take everything as a competition)

2. Cold beverage.

Or as my brother and sister calls it...cold drank. Whatever your cup of tea is, whether it is an alcoholic beverage, nice cold glass of lemonade or a refreshing sweet tea, you guzzle your drink of choice all weekend long.

Also, if you aren't 21, don't drink an alcoholic beverage. Don't say, "But Mom, Danny from Odyssey said I could" because that is wrong. And now your Mom would be upset with me.

3. Grill...grill...and grill some more.

Men are truly happy when two things happen: When they can fix something with their hands and when they can grill. So ladies, let your man take charge this 4th, let him handle the grill. I suggest steak, chicken, burgers and brats -- along with a refreshing beverage to wash it down (see the previous number for ideas).

4. Watch a Patriotic movie.

What movies could I watch you ask? Oh, I don't know, "Top Gun," "Rocky 4," "Independence Day," "The Patriot," "Air Force One," even the movie "Jaws" takes place during the 4th of July. Are you telling me a giant, menacing shark attacking Amityville and having chief Brody battle against the shark isn't patriotic? That's what I thought.

5. Water activity.

Let me ask you a question: Have you ever seen someone frowning when on a jet ski? Let me answer that question for you: no, no you haven't. Any water activity makes for a great 4th of July, whether it is swimming in the pool, making a slip and slide or even a classic water balloon fight. As a little kid, I went fishing out on the dock with my Aunt Beth as a kid; good times were had by all right there (Yes, my haircut is awful. Yes, I am wearing socks with sandals. But it was the 90s and I owned that look. I lived in my lifejacket).

6. Fireworks.

Fireworks go hand-in-hand with the 4th of July (sometimes they even take a hand). If you are going to light some fireworks off, be safe, stand from a distance and watch that sky burst and watch millions of colors dance across the dark sky.

7. Patriotic outfit.

Anything that involves a majestic bald eagle, the American flag or George Washington on it is pretty solid. Creativity is key people, get crazy and go nuts on showing your patriotism. Paint your nails, get a temporary tattoo on your body...go all out.

Bonus points if you wear a navy speedo with the American flag ironed on the butt.

8. Music.

Throw on some Zac Brown Band, Bruce Springsteen, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Kenny Chesney, whatever it is that you love to blast on full volume. Crank that speaker loud and let the good times roll.

9. Thank a troop.

Make sure to thank a troop this 4th of July. For their hard work, loyalty and service to this country. It doesn't matter what you do, if it is big or small, any thanks goes a long way. Thank you to our troops who are currently serving and who have served previously, you all keep this country safe.

10. Enjoy the 4th with friends and family.

Friends and family are the difference between having a good 4th of July and having a great 4th of July. Good times will be had by all this 4th of July, make it count and outdo your last 4th of July.

Use this guide to have a successfully 4th of July.

And don't just have a great 4th of July...have an American 4th of July.