Americans are expected to spend $7.1 billion on food for cookouts and picnics as they celebrate the Fourth of July this year, up from $6.8 billion in 2016, according to the annual survey released today by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and conducted by Prosper Insight & Analytics.

“With warmer than average weather so far this summer, Americans should be in the mood to head outside to celebrate Independence Day. (Tuesday, July 4, 2017)  “Retailers will be well-stocked with everything from flags to burgers to help Americans prepare for their holiday activities,” said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said.

July 4th is a grand old celebration

219 million (88%) | Americans who plan to celebrate the holiday
162 million (66%) | Plan to take part in a cookout or picnic
$73.42 | Average per-person Independence Day-related picnic food items (up from $71.34 in 2016).

Americans love to show their red, white and blue

65% | (Percent of those surveyed who already) own a U.S. flag
53% | (Percent of those surveyed who already) own patriotic-themed apparel (T-shirts, bathing suits, shoes, etc.)
40% | (Percent of those surveyed who already) own patriotic decorations
28% |Percent of those surveyed who plan on purchasing even more patriotic decorations.

Bombs bursting in air

44% | Percent of Americans who will attend a firework show or community celebration
14% |  Will watch a parade.

Independence Day travel

This year, the holiday is on a Tuesday. Those who can are sneaking away for an extended four-day weekend.

32.9 million (13% of those celebrating the 4th) | Americans who they will head out of town during the holiday (up from 31.1 million last year)

18% | Say price of gasoline will affect their plan 2017
21% | Said price of gasoline would affect their plan 2016
59% | Said price of gasoline would affect their plan 2008 (Peak year)

istock and SmallBusiness.com