If you're planning a 4th of July BBQ, here's a patriotic spin on the typical burger and hot dog fare - set up an All-American Hot Dog bar featuring toppings for iconic dogs from across the USA! All you need to do is set out the toppings, grill the dogs, and let your guests have fun trying combinations from cities such as Chicago, New York, and Atlanta. Check out our 4th of July party for more festive food, decorations, and activities!
Choose the type of hot dogs you'd like to include in your hot dog bar and set out the toppings in individual small bowls and cups. We had toppings to make Chicago dogs, New York dogs, and since we're in San Antonio, our own invented version of Texas dogs! I used chalkboard signs embellished with American flags to label each set of toppings. You can also use cake stands to vary the height of the different topping groups.
Chicago Dogs
- Yellow mustard
- Green relish
- Chopped onions
- Tomato slices
- Sport peppers
- Pickle spear
- Celery salt
New York Dogs
- Spicy brown mustard
- Sauerkraut
- Sauteed onions in tomato paste
Texas Dogs (our version!)
- BBQ sauce
- Cheddar cheese
- Onions
Kansas City Dogs
- Sauerkraut
- Melted cheese
- Thousand Island dressing
Detroit (Coney) Dogs
- Beef chili
- White onion
- Yellow mustard
- Shredded cheddar
Arizona (Sonoran) Dogs
- Bacon wrapped hot dog
- Pinto beans
- Mustard
- Mayo
- Onion
- Tomatoes
- Jalapeños
Atlanta Dogs
- Top sliced bun
- Coleslaw
Set out hot dog buns and diner baskets. I lined the baskets with gingham napkins. 
Grill the hot dogs and let guests top them with the toppings from the bar. Here is how a Chicago dog turned out! 
These simple fruit kabobs made with strawberries, blackberries, and marshmallows were the perfect accompaniment to the hot dogs and kept the food simple. 
I used cake stands to separate the different groups of toppings and create visual interest. 
Make sure to check out all the other details of our backyard 4th of July party including our DIY pinwheel centerpiece and our patriotic scooter activity!
