Consumers can expect a break from the heat of inflation this Fourth of July as retailers like Walmart, Kroger and Natural Grocers roll out promotions to help shoppers save and stay on budget.
This year, hosting a 10-person barbecue on July Fourth will cost $99, “the highest [dollar amount] on record” with essentials like beer, beef, soda and lettuce making up 64% of the total cost, according to data from Rabobank Group’s 2024 Rabobank BBQ Index.
While this may be the last summer a Fourth of July barbecue will cost under $100, Rabobank noted, grocers are offering deals to lower prices on holiday essentials, particularly outdoor summer cooking and grilling supplies.
July Fourth barbecues are getting increasingly expensive to host
Walmart introduced a summer cookout basket, which includes a 10-pack of hot dogs, condiments, ready-to-serve potato salad, watermelon and ice pops, among other items, according to a recent press release.
The basket is priced at less than $50, feeds eight people and is available for purchase in-store or online, Walmart noted.
Kroger is sharing with its shoppers $15 grilling recipes for the upcoming summer holiday, including grilled lime chicken with mango salsa, shrimp and vegetable kebabs, and grilled summer vegetable orecchiette pasta, according to the press release. To help inspire consumers, Kroger said its blog, The Fresh Lane, has more than 40 Fourth of July recipes.
The grocer is also making available its grilling bundle, which provides shoppers with “the entire Independence Day barbeque” for $4 a person.
National retailers aren’t the only ones rolling out Fourth of July savings. Specialty grocer Natural Grocers is offering up to 55% off select summer picnic and barbecue supplies through July 3. Discounted items include a tub of Bitchin’ Sauce, Woodstock's Organic Kosher Pickles and two bags of Siete potato chips, according to the announcement.
Retailers are looking beyond the Fourth to promote summer savings. Walmart Deals, the retailer’s “largest savings event ever,” runs from July 8 to July 11 and offers customers discounts on electronics, home essentials, toys, travel and back-to-school items. Walmart+ members will gain early access to these savings.
