Celebrate Bastille Day with a Theme Party: Host a Fondue Party

France's Bastille Day is July 14th and commemorates the storming of the Bastille and the beginning of the French Revolution. It's celebrated much like Independence Day-- with fireworks, parades and parties. But just because you don't live in France, doesn't mean you have to miss out on the celebration. Bastille Day is a great opportunity to gather with friends and party like the French do: with good food and drinks.

Although fondue is traditionally Swiss, the term "fondue" comes from the french word "fondre" ("to melt"). There's no better way to dip into French culture than with a French Fondue party. This party idea extends beyond Bastille Day and can be used any time you want to channel a bit of French culture into your home.

The United States shares its national colors with France, so don't throw away all of those red white and blue paper plates and napkins left over from the Fourth of July- use them for your French Fondue party. Wear your red and blue and ask your friends to do the same. You can even supply berets for your more festive friends.

If you don't own fondue pots, ask your guests to bring theirs. Fondue is even more fun when you make it with friends.

Fondue Dippers: A cubed baguette works very well for dipping, as do bagel chips. Any crusty French or Italian style breads also works.

Fondue Tip: Make sure to melt everything together slowly and keep the heat low enough so the mixture remains below simmering.

These Fondue ideas are sure to please everyone.

Spicy Cheese Fondue:
1/4 cup flour
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 pound Monterey jack cheese -- shredded
1/2 pound sharp cheddar cheese -- shredded
1 can beer
1 clove garlic -- minced
chopped jalapeno peppers to taste

Pizza Party Fondue:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes
1 cup dry white wine
2 8-ounce blocks reduced-fat or regular cream cheese, cut into cubes
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
Chopped fresh basil, for garnish

Cheddar Beer Fondue:
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup flour
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp. dry mustard
1 bottle (12 oz.) Lager
3 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded

For Dessert Chocolate Mint Fondue is always a big hit. You can use Angel Food Cake, Strawberries, Pretzels, Butter Cookies for dipping.

Chocolate mint Fondue:
1/3 cup whipping cream
8 ounces good-quality semisweet chocolate, chopped
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
2-4 tablespoons water, optional

A Popular Drink in France is Panache. It's a very refreshing treat for a hot summer day and a great addition to any party

Homemade Panache:
Light Lager
7-up (or other lemon lime drink)
Mix equal parts of Lager and 7-Up

Don't forget the French Wine. It's a perfect way to end the night.