CINCINNATTI—As Americans prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, Kroger is stepping up to help families commemorate the holiday with affordable grilling essentials, expert advice, and continued support for U.S. troops and veterans.
To honor the spirit of Independence Day, Kroger has donated $1 million to the United Service Organizations (USO), reaffirming its longstanding support for military service members and their families. With over 50,000 veterans hired across its business over the past decade, Kroger is also the largest cumulative donor in the USO’s 84-year history.
“We join our customers in honoring our nation's birthday with special gratitude for all who have served and sacrificed for the fundamental promise of American freedom and democracy,” said Ron Sargent, Kroger’s Chairman and CEO. “Kroger—America’s Grocer—is proud to help families celebrate with everything they need for memorable gatherings.”
Kroger is also spotlighting associates like Yme Van Beek, a seasoned butcher at Smith’s Food and Drug in St. George, Utah. With nearly four decades of meat-cutting experience, Yme recommends holiday grillers reach for brats, baby back ribs, carne asada, or New York Strip steaks. For those smoking meats, try brisket, pork shoulder, or whole chicken. His summer favorites? Boneless ribeye and salmon.

Yme's tips for Independence Day celebrations:
- For optimal barbecuing results, start with a clean grill and brush grates with vegetable oil to help prevent foods from sticking.
- When grilling burgers, place an ice cube in the center of the meat patty to help the meat retain moisture.
- Grilling watermelon or pineapple adds delicious variety to a meal.
- Ask the associate behind the meat counter what items have the best flavor and tenderness and inquire about their personal favorite cuts. For customers looking for custom cuts, just ask.
- For the best value when planning an Independence Day celebration, check out Kroger's weekly sales items, value packs, chicken and brats.
Now that customers have the grill covered, try these no fuss appetizers and sides that everyone will love with no cooking required:
- American Flag Charcuterie Boad: For a fun and festive take on a charcuterie board, arrange red, white and blue ingredients in an American flag pattern—it is quick, easy and delicious.
- Hot Honey Peach Cowboy Caviar: A spicy-sweet riff on the beloved simple dish. A one-bowl wonder, simply combine ingredients and serve.
- Watermelon Caprese Salad: Creamy mozzarella, fresh basil and juicy watermelon make for a fun and refreshing take on caprese salad.
- Fourth of July Taco Dip: This easy dip is sure to be hit at backyard barbeques. Boasting lots of veggies and two kinds of beans, it will go great served alongside favorites from the grill.
With everyday low prices, seasonal savings and new lower prices, Kroger is helping families honor the holiday without skipping on any summertime favorites. Kroger has all the products customers need to enjoy a festive Fourth of July celebration at an incredible value, including great deals beginning July 2:
- Save $3 on S'mores when customers buy one of each: Hershey's Milk Chocolate Candy Bars or Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, Jet-Puffed Marshmallows and Honey Maid Graham Crackers.
- Kroger® Cole Slaw Mix—Two for $3. To wow guests, serve tossed in Private's Selection's® New Classic Coleslaw Dressing.
- Deli 8-piece Fried Chicken--$5.99
- Kroger® Shrimp Cocktail with Cocktail Sauce—$10
- Outshine® Fruit Bars in several flavors—Two for $5
- Holiday travelers can enjoy 4X fuel points on gift card purchases.
- Plus, more great low prices on hamburgers, hotdogs, grilling meats, buns, beverages, snacks and sides.
Find even more Independence Day ideas and dishes at Kroger's blog, The Fresh Lane, with more than 40 Fourth of July recipes and tons of inspiration for grilling, appetizers, dessert boards and cool treats.