Fourth of July spending is on the rise nationwide

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Nothing says 'All American Barbecue' like tossing a tri-tip on the grill. According to the National Retail Federation, Americans will spend more than $7-billion on their 4th of July celebrations.

As for spending on barbeque must haves, they say almost $800-million will be spent on hamburger patties and grilled chicken, $133-million on buns, and $37-million on just ketchup.

So what are Valley natives shopping for?

"Slab of ribs-- three bags of hot links, a tri tip, and a 10 pack of hamburger patties," said Jerome Harris, Fresno.

"You gotta have the asada-- some tacos; you gotta have enough meat for the tacos. You gotta have your veggies too," said Esteban Rea, Fresno.

Manning the grill will cost slightly less this year-- as a new Farm Bureau survey shows the average cost of a summer cookout for 10 will come out to less than $6 per person. Higher production has pushed retail beef and pork prices down-- add the competition in the meat case. This 4th of July is more affordable than years past.

"We make custom sausages, so people go crazy over those. We have really spicy ones and of course our ribs," said Joseph Renna, Renna's Meat Market.

Renna's Meat Market has been serving the Valley since 1935 and has been at their First and Ashlan location for more than 15 years. In addition to staying competitive with specialty prices, it has the personalized experience that keeps people coming back for more.

"It's like 'Cheers' in here, but for the meat market world we keep a name to name basis with a lot of our customers," said Renna.

The Summer Cookout Survey showcases other barbecue favorites including the costs of baked beans, American cheese, and chocolate milk are down-- while potato salad, watermelon, and condiments are slightly up.