Summer cookouts cost nearly $3 more this holiday than last year

This year's summer cookouts are costing about $3 more per person than last year, aligning closely with the general inflation rate, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. The survey highlights a 4% increase in prices for essentials like meat, veggies, and sides, making it a bit more expensive to host a traditional 10-person barbecue. This trend reflects broader economic pressures on everyday expenses, and it’s worth noting that families might need to adjust their budgets or find ways to cut costs to maintain their summer traditions.