The Fourth of July is so close, we can practically taste it! Speaking of taste ~ celebrate Independence Day the right way this year and mix up Hornitos Tequila's Strawberry Muddler and Hornitos Firecracker cocktails. There's no better way to quench your 4th of July thirst than with these refreshing, invigorating and spirited cocktails during the holiday weekend.

While relaxation and fun is definitely in order this coming holiday weekend and few things can compare to the fireworks that light up the sky, safety is important as well. Keep your family and friends safe with a few 4th of July safety tips to ensure that everyone has a BLAST!

Supervision ~ Although fireworks are so much fun and the kids really enjoy them, keep in mind that they can be dangerous and should only be handled by an adult. Even sparklers should be supervised.

Good Aim ~ Pointing fireworks in the wrong direction or simply not paying attention can only result in a lame and unfortunate celebration. Aim for the sky and let the show begin!

Animal Safety ~ Most pets aren't big fans of fireworks or anything loud and noisy for that matter. They will bark, hide or even worse have a long night filled with anxiety, so it's probably best to keep the pets indoors or at least safe and away from the fireworks.

One at a Time ~ It may be fun to think of the display you could create by using multiple fireworks at once but ultimately, only one is necessary. Keeping the fun managed and controlled ensures for a successful night.

Got a DUD? Duds happen and if so, don't try to relight it. Soak the duds in water and dispose of them in a safe place. Overall, enjoy the long and festive weekend with friends and family...Happy 4th of July!

Strawberry Muddler

• 3 parts Hornitos Plata Tequila
• Handful of fresh strawberries
• Juice from 1 lime
• 2 teaspoons superfine sugar
• Fresh pepper
• 1 cup club soda

Preparation: Put strawberries in a small pitcher and mash to your desired consistency. Add juice, club soda, Hornitos Plata Tequila and combine along with four good grinds from a pepper mill. Fill two glasses halfway with ice and divide the drink between the glasses.

Hornitos Firecracker

• 1 part Hornitos Plata Tequila
• 4 parts concord grape juice
• 1/2 part fresh lemon juice

Preparation: Add ingredients to a glass over ice and stir. Enjoy!

Sauza Watermelon Margarita (serves 8)

• 1 cups Sauza Tequila
• 1/2 cup Lime juice
• 1/2 cup Triple sec
• 1 cup Watermelon juice
• Drops of honey

Preparation: Add ingredients to an ice-filled pitcher and stir. Pour into salt or sugar rimmed glasses and garnish with a watermelon wedge.

Berry Patriotic

• 1 part Skinnygirl Bare Naked Vodka
• 1 part DeKuyper Blueberry Schnapps
• Splash of club soda
• 5 muddled strawberries
• 20 blueberries

Preparation: Add muddled strawberries to a glass and top with ice. Shake Skinnygirl Bare Naked Vodka and DeKuyper Blueberry Schnapps in a shaker with ice. Strain into the glass and top with club soda and blueberries.