Think a BBQ is too predictable of a Fourth of July activity? We’ve scoured the web for some alternative activities including hot concerts, screenings, and all-you-can-eat festivities. COMPILED BY ALYSSA RASHBAUM
NEW YORK, NY
Nathan’s Famous Hotdog Eating Contest
Watch with envy (or horror) as 15 contestants from around the globe try to squash the world record of 50 hot dogs.
When: Noon
Where: Nathan’s Famous, 1310 Surf Ave, Coney Island
Price: FREE
More info: nathansfamous.com
Rooftop Films presents Fun with the Founding Fathers
Films to be screened include Cox and Combs (Washington), a musical about George Washington’s romantic side. The Double performs at 8 P.M.
When: 6 P.M.
Where: Solar One (Stuyvesant Cove Park, 23rd St & FDR Drive)
Price: $20
More info: rooftopfilms.com
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OfficeOps Rooftop Party
Austin-based buzz band Voxtrot headlines this cool indie rock soiree atop a Brooklyn rooftop. The Occasion, Rusty Santos, Damon McMahon, TK Webb, and Zachary Cale also scheduled to perform.
When: 3 P.M. until fireworks
Where: 57 Thames St., Brooklyn
Price: $15
More info: Tickets available at TicketWeb
LOS ANGELES, CA
4th of July Punk Rock Party!
Celebrate rebellion and DIY ethics, two things that make this country great, when radio station Indie 103.1FM’s Complete Control Radio Presents Youth Brigade, the Briefs, Pistol Grip, and Dreadful Children.
When: 7 P.M.
Where: Knitting Factory, 7021 Hollywood Blvd.
Price: $12
More info: knittingfactory.com
Flag Waver’s Ball
For those who like their fireworks with a side of indie rock, head to the Silverlake Lounge to watch Mucous, Lipstick Terror, God’s Gang, and the Sexies.
When: TBA
Where: Silverlake Lounge, 2906 W. Sunset Blvd.
Price: $5
More info: Silverlake Lounge
CHICAGO, IL
Taste of Chicago
Before Lollapalooza takes over in August, grab some grub and settle in to watch Mike Doughty, My Morning Jacket, and Ray Davies at the Taste of Chicago festival in Grant Park.
When: 11 A.M.
Where: Grant Park
Price: FREE to attend, various prices to indulge
More info: tasteofchicago.us
SAN FRANCISCO, CA
Fourth of July Celebration at Pier 39
Get your dance on before the fireworks start with the help of Double Funk Crunch and ’80s cover band Tainted Love.
When: 1:30-10 P.M. (fireworks at 9:30 P.M.)
Where: Pier 39
Price: FREE
More info: pier39.com
PHOENIX, AZ
Warped Tour
Those lucky enough to live in Phoenix can celebrate their independence at the Warped Tour, watching bands like Anti-Flag, NOFX, Saves the Day, Silverstein, Patent Pending, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Thursday, and more.
When: Noon
Where: Cricket Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd
Price: $25.25
More info: warpedtour.com
HOUSTON, TX
Chevy’s Freedom Over Texas: Houston’s Official July 4th Celebration You know Texas is doing it right for the 4th. Los Lonely Boys are the main attraction while four different stages will feature music representing the country’s diversity: pop, Latin music, jazz, classic rock, R&B, adult contemporary and country. There will also be a Budweiser Beer Garden and, of course, fireworks.
When: 4 P.M. Where: Eleanor Tinsley Park @ Buffalo Bayou
Price: $6
More info: Houston’s official site
Talk: Is there something super exciting going on in your hometown? Tell us about it! COMMENT
