Peter Facinelli's Explosive 4th of July Plans

Peter Facinelli's Explosive 4th of July Plans



Peter Facinelli may act the role of an ancient vampire, but in real life the Eclipse star is just an all-American guy.

Best known these days as daddy vamp Carlisle Cullen in the Twilight series, Facinelli, 36, tells PEOPLE he likes to spend his 4th of July in classic tradition – watching fireworks and tending to the grill.

"Growing up, everyone would be lighting [fireworks] off down the street and it'd be the nosiest, loudest day of the year, and the most explosive," he says. "I think maybe that's why now ... I like to go see the fireworks – it reminds me of being a part of it."

But fireworks won't be the only things set on fire this weekend: Facinelli, who also stars on Showtime's hit Nurse Jackie, happens to be a grilling master.

"The trick to barbequing is just to grill the chicken first and then add the barbeque sauce within the last five minutes," he says. "If you put the barbeque sauce on too soon it burns off or just blackens the chicken."

And for dessert? Perhaps something from a Cookie for Kids Cancer bake sale. Facinelli has teamed up with Glad to Give, Glad’s new initiative to support the non-profit Cookies for Kids Cancer which raises funds and awareness for pediatric cancer through local bake sales and online efforts.

"It's a small act that makes a big difference," says Facinelli. "What we're doing is baking cookies. And, as simple as that seems, it can save lives one day."