ref=”https://thinktasty1.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/hot-dogs.jpg”>As I mentioned earlier this week, National Dog Day makes me think of hot dogs. It seems like a natural pairing. So, why fight it?

If I were to host a Dog Day party, which seems like a fun thing to do, I would definitely have a hot dog bar as one of the stations. Besides the requisite hot dogs, buns, and chili, there could be so many other options. Yes, you have your pickled onions, sauerkraut, and basic condiments. Looking through the Think Tasty archives, I found an assortment of other sauces and whatnot that could be part of this table.

First, you would have your basic condiments section. This would include relish, mustard, and ketchup. For those that want to add a level of excitement to their hot dog, without going really crazy, amped up condiments are the way to go. I would suggest making a batch of maple apple mustard. Simple to make, but with a decent amount of flavor, it would add a new dimension to your everyday hot dog.

Second, you could have a section dedicated to themed hot dogs. I’m not talking your plain, old chili dog. I’m thinking things like an Italian hot dog (marinara and mozzarella) or a buffalo dog. For the buffalo dog, just a bottle of buffalo sauce, diced celery, and blue cheese sauce. To keep it a bit healthier, why not give our lighter blue cheese dip a try?

We may not have any dogs at our house, but I’m pretty sure that my husband and son would be thrilled with a party based around a hot dog menu. It may be on the schedule for our son’s next break spent at home.

Editor’s Note: For some added fun to the hot dog party, gather the supplies for the kids to make this cute dog craft that they can take home with them.