Here's How Much Americans Will Eat and Drink This July 4 Holiday

Perhaps it's the patriotism of an election year, but more people will be celebrating the Fourth of July holiday this year than ever before, according to the National Retail Federation. And they'll also be spending more: $6.8 billion, up 1.4% over last year. A lot of that money is going to food and drink: WalletHub projects that American households will spend an average of $370 on July 4 festivities, including 150 million hot dogs, 700 million pounds of chicken, and 190 million pounds of beef. Luckily, hot dogs and burgers cost less this year. But you'll pay more for hamburger buns, mustard, and American cheese. And if you're bored with beer—though that won't stop Americans from drinking more than $1 billion worth this holiday weekend—there's a new way to get your buzz this year: boozy ice cream.