Celebrate the Fourth with Boulder’s favorite DIY twist on a backyard classic—plant-based, locally sourced, and packed with flavor

Skip the mystery meat—this Fourth of July, Boulder is firing up the grill with a clean conscience and bold flavors. Enter the Veggie Dog Bar: a DIY brat station that’s fully loaded, plant-based, and 100% Boulder-approved. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash, a rooftop gathering, or a picnic at Eben G. Fine Park, this simple setup is guaranteed to steal the show.

Why a Veggie Dog Bar?

Boulder’s love for conscious cuisine meets classic cookout vibes in this festive setup. Offering a lineup of vegan sausages—like Beyond Sausage, Field Roast, or jackfruit brats from local vendors—means you’re catering to vegans, vegetarians, and curious carnivores alike. It’s a flavorful, fun, and inclusive way to celebrate the Fourth without compromise.

Local options can be found at the Boulder Farmers Market or at specialty grocers like Whole Foods on Pearl Street. Look for small-batch vendors that bring extra flavor and Boulder flair.

Topping Ideas: Build-Your-Own Brat Like a Boulderite

A vibrant toppings bar lets everyone customize their creation. Here are some crowd-pleasers to include:

Grilled red onions and bell peppers
Classic or spicy kraut
Sriracha slaw made with cabbage, carrots, vegan mayo, and a touch of heat
Sliced avocado or guacamole
Crispy pickled jalapeños
Microgreens or arugula
Stone-ground mustard
Locally baked buns from a bakery like Spruce Confections or Moxie Bread Co.

Set up the toppings in small labeled bowls and keep them chilled if you’re outdoors. For extra inclusivity, offer gluten-free buns and a selection of sparkling beverages or kombucha.

A gourmet plant-based hot dog stacked with creamy slaw, grilled onions, jalapeños, and fresh avocado slices—Boulder’s bold twist on a Fourth of July classic.

Quick Boulder-Style Slaw Recipe (Vegan)

Ingredients:
2 cups shredded cabbage
1 shredded carrot
2 tablespoons vegan mayo
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon maple syrup
Dash of sriracha, salt, and pepper

Instructions:
Mix all ingredients in a bowl, chill before serving, and let the flavors shine. It’s tangy, spicy, and exactly what a Boulder cookout calls for.

Why Boulder Loves It

This isn’t just a trendy dish—it’s a reflection of the Boulder spirit. Plant-based, locally sourced, and community-centered, the Veggie Dog Bar is everything Boulder stands for. It’s an easy way to host a fun, inclusive Fourth of July celebration while supporting local makers and minimizing your environmental footprint.

Looking for the best places to set up your grill or picnic blanket? Discover great parks, trails, and local hangouts through this local guide, where you’ll find more ways to live your best Boulder life.

So skip the traditional dogs this Fourth—go bold, go plant-based, and let your guests build their own Boulder-style brat with pride.

AboutBoulder-admin