Uninspired by the standard, "must provide" July 4th "burgers and dogs" menu? If you're searching for inspiration, don't panic, Patch has you covered. We've got several ideas, including a few refreshing and easy-to-make cocktails, an icy treat perfect for cooling off and a picnic package if your plans do not include ready access to the kitchen. 

Gin Rickey: If you haven't tried this gin-based concoction, you're really missing out. It just so happens that July is the official Gin Rickey month in the District ... so what better time to become acquainted with a locally bred cocktail. The recipe combines gin, fresh lime juice and soda water and will please a wide range of grateful imbibers. 

Pimm's Cup: According to the official Wimbledon website, there are 200,000 glasses of Pimm's Cup served annually at the two-week tennis championship. The British love their Pimms, and so do I. And with all the local farmers' markets brimming with seasonal berries (the perfect garnish for this beverage), including this drink among your July 4th offerings is a no brainer. 

Paletas: Who isn't a fan of ice pops? This recipe for refreshing homemade paletas makes them even more tasty by adding crushed graham crackers. This dessert is guaranteed to delight both the kids and adults at your event. 

If cooking is not in your plan, Old Town's Society Fair is offering two cooked and ready to go family feasts: 

The "American Backyard" ($100, serves 4), includes baby back ribs, smoked Berkshire pork shoulder, North Carolina chili vinegar BBQ sauce, local organic potato salad, Alabama summer slaw, honey cornbread and peach cobbler. Or try the "Summer BBQ Bash" ($175, serves 6-8), which includes all the above items plus spicy Cajun sausage, three Society Fair BBQ sauces, bacon-baked beans and your choice of peach cobbler or lemon iced box cake. 

Allow 48 hours notice. Call the fair to order at 703-683-3247 or send an email to Dan@societyfair.net with the subject "Ordering American BBQ".