Summertime Traditions

It’s officially summer — well, it almost is. June 20th is the OFFICIAL first day of summer, no matter how long we’ve been claiming that the season is here. And with summertime comes a few American traditions that we can’t live without. While we may say that we cannot live without these traditions, this year proves to us that we can, as many of these traditions are unable to be carried out due to COVID-19 and government-issued safety mandates. But don’t worry, many of the yummy snacks we enjoy during these traditions can be made from the comfort of our own homes!

Baseball Games

Americans take sports very seriously, especially the baseball season. There’s nothing better than wearing your favorite team’s baseball cap, sitting in the stands cheering them on as the sun beats down on you. Perhaps the best part about going to a game is the stadium food. We’ve come a long way since the days of popcorn and hotdogs. Nowadays, there are so many options, such as: 

• Donut Burger at Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies
• Coney Dog Egg Roll at Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers
• Bone-In Smoked Beef Short Ribs at Nationals Park, home of the Washington Nationals
• Tres Leches Milkshake at Yankee Stadium, home of the New York Yankees
• Fried Dough Sundae at Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox
• Smothered French Fries at Guaranteed Rate Park, home of the Chicago White Sox
• Sushi at Marlins Park, home of the Miami Marlins
• Rocky Mountain Oyster Po’Boy at Coors Field, home of the Colorado Rockies

While sports may be on hold right now, that doesn’t mean that these dishes need to be. Try making them with the family and create a new family tradition!

The Drive-Ins

Originating all the way back in the 1910-1920s, a drive-in is a classic American summertime staple. The drive-ins were at their peak popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, bringing crowds every night. Watching a movie from the comfort of your car in the open air feels like it’s the way that movies were meant to be viewed. Now, no trip to the drive-in is complete without snacks! While many people bring their own treats with them, most drive-ins have a concession stand. Some of the most popular items are:

• Popcorn
• Nachos
• Pretzels
• Hot Dogs & Hamburgers
• Cotton Candy
• Candy
• Soda
• Ice Cream

One good thing about the drive-in is that they’re social distance friendly. So pack up the kids and go see the new releases!

Fairs & Carnivals

Going to the fair on a hot summer night with family or friends each summer is expected in the U.S. Our county and state fairs boast not only interesting attractions such as livestock, art, rides, and entertainment, but also a wide variety of cuisine. Some treats you’ll be sure to find at any fair or carnival include:

• Funnel Cakes: Who wouldn’t want to devour a plate of fried dough covered in powdered sugar?
• Gyros: This classic Greek dish is the perfect bite to grab for dinner and is often made with either pork, chicken, lamb, or beef.
• Apple Dumplings: If you love apple pie, you’ll love apple dumplings. They’re served hot with a generous scoop of cold vanilla ice cream.
• Fresh Juices: Whether it be a gallon of homemade apple cider or a cup of cool lemonade, the fair serves the best. 
• Turkey Legs: America takes pride in BBQing so it’s only fair that we’d serve giant turkey legs, grilled to perfection.

As with the stadium food, some of your fair favorites can be concocted right in your own kitchen. Plus, you’ll be making some great memories along with the food.

Let Kevin’s Bar & Restaurant Be Your New Summer Tradition

As Kevin’s Bar & Restaurant reopens this Friday, June 19th, we hope to see you! We’ve missed serving you and look forward to providing you with excellent service and cuisine this summertime. Stay tuned for more information!