5 Fun Ways To Celebrate The Fourth

BY LIZZIE BYRNE

Macy’s barges may move from East to West, but the spirit of the party always lives on in Brooklyn. This year some of our favorite spots and hometown brands are hosting events to make sure your holiday is one for the books. Check out some of our favorites below:

1) Picnic (and learn!) in the Park

Ongoing, Prospect Park

Whip out the grill and host a BBQ picnic in Prospect Park! If you have groceries and an appetite, you have all the ingredients needed to celebrate at one of Brooklyn’s naturally lovely venues. Check out the park rules here to make sure you’re keeping your coals safe: http://www.prospectpark.org/visit/activities/bbq

Tip: If you’re bringing the kids, there are a few great educational activities within the park that the whole family will enjoy:

• Leffert’s Historic House: if exploring gardens and exhibits, and making your own hat (with plume!) isn’t enough of a draw, how about an opportunity to sign a reproduction of the Declaration of Independence?
• The Audubon Center: Learn about the history and significance of the iconic Bald Eagle, and how it came to symbolize our national strength and courage.

 

2) Galactic Grooves at Dekalb Market

Wednesday, July 4 – 3 to 9 p.m.

138 Willoughby Street (@Flatbush Ave), Brooklyn

Deep Space, an “adventure into future dub, spacey vibes, and abstract grooves featuring resident DJ François K” presents an awesome set lineup including futuro jazzy King Britt, the chill and funky FaltyDL, live sax from Ilhan Ersahin (Nublu) and dubpoet (spoken word over reggae rhythms) Afrocentricity. It’s a galactic get down!

 

3) We’re on a Boat!

Wednesday, July 4 – 7:30 to 10:45pm

Greenpoint Launch at the end of India Street (West St.)

This boat bash features some of our favorite hometown brands, including Brooklyn Brewery, Brooklyn Roasting Company and NY Distilling Company for a guaranteed great time and incredible view on the water. They’ll be serving brews and cocktails alongside sausages, watermelon, slaw, and ice cream—so there’s sure to be something for everyone on the menu. Grab a ticket and learn more at www.BrooklynBrewery.com.

 

4) Have a ball at Coney Island

Wednesday, July 4 – Various times

Surf Avenue, Coney Island

After you catch Nathan’s famous hot dog eating contest, stick around to watch the Brooklyn Cyclones vs. Williamsport Crosscutters, complete with fun and fireworks at MCU park in Coney Island. Fireworks at the Brooklyn cyclone’s ballpark. http://www.brooklyncyclones.com/news/index.html?article_id=1359

 

5) Crash your friend’s rooftop

You know that friend who is always bragging about their awesome rooftop, and saying how he really should throw a party? Well, it’s time to finally take him up on the offer. Whip up some of that brag-worth guacamole and gather a host of friends. After all, fireworks will fade, but the memories of good times with great company can last forever.

 

Bonus:

For the digitally savvy who are determined to avoid the crowds, check out Macy’s free fireworks iPhone app for live updates of Katy Perry and Kenny Chesney without the crowds and the hassle. Full information about watching the show including the best views from Manhattan, all available at social.macys.com/fireworks.