The best 4th of July events in Miami to celebrate another USA birthday

For its inaugural 4th of July Bash, this beloved Little River nano-brewery and kitchen is throwing an epic hot dog-themed party complete with a hot dog eating contest (featuring their house-made Champion Dogs), free Super Good Lager beer with any hot dog purchase, El Bagel “Bagel Dogs” and hot dog trivia (with prizes). Special guest Burger Beast will also be in attendance, as well as community leader Marvin Tapia as MC and DJ Master Feathers on the turntables. Kid-friendly activities run from 2 to 7pm with the hot dog eating contest kicking off at 5pm.

Pack up your lawn chairs and load up the cooler. This year, the Miami Symphony Orchestra (MISO) performs a set of American classics at Peacock Park accompanied by an epic drone show in lieu of fireworks. The event is free and open to the public—and it’s within walking distance to plenty of other festive 4th of July events happening all over Coconut Grove.

What’s an Independence Day celebration without burgers, fried chicken, French fries and something sparkling? Scoop it all up at Julia & Henry’s, where the bubbly is as bottomless as this country’s bounty. The Downtown food hall will be hosting bottomless brunch on the patio this 4th of July. Enjoy $35 for all-you-can-drink mimosas or $55 for spritzes. A live band will be announced soon.

Follow up your Independence Day festivities on Friday, July 5 with a throwback-themed party celebrating the radness of the 1980s. This independently-owned brewery, taproom and beer garden in Little River hosts a synth-fueled evening headlined by British pop/rock band Boys Don't Cry. Sample craft brews and nosh on grilled delights from Magic 13's new chef, Renata Ferraro. The digs will be dressed up in totally tubular decor and, yes, there will be a contest for best-dressed, so don your spandex and denim accordingly. July 5, 7pm; $5

Get star spangle-hammered this July 4th weekend at any of the South Florida Bodega locations. The party kicks off early at 2pm on Thursday, July 4 and Friday, July 5 with DJ sets and live music, plus spicy specials like $10 Casamigos shots, $300 Casamigos Blanco bottles and $350 Casamigos Reposado bottles. On Saturday, July 6, DJ Damaged Goods burns down the house at Bodega’s Coconut Grove location from 9pm until close.

There’s you on the grill, and then there’s Jack Arnold. The pit master will be sizzling up some meaty faves at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne’s Fourth of July BBQ, which offers a front-row view to the fireworks presented by The Village of Key Biscayne. Tickets ($75 for kids under 13, $130 for those under 21 and $150 for adults) include a full buffet, unlimited non-boozy beverages, kids’ party favors and live music all night long.

This gorgeous bayfront perch in Edgewater hosts a festive evening of music, sparklers, fireworks and traditional barbecue with a spin. Offerings include a Uruguayan Chivito Sandwich topped with filet mignon, bacon and provolone; a refreshing Watermelon Salad tossed with whipped feta, and Caviar Corn Dogs. A spirited Patriot's Punch features lemongrass-infused Tito's, fresh watermelon juice and lime. The Independence Day feast is complemented by sparklers and beats by DJ Astro, plus front-row seats to fireworks show over the water. 5pm

Name a more American team to play than the Boston Red Sox? (Alright, we’re stretching here.) Catch the Miami Marlins versus the Boston Red Sox on the 4th of July, laying out the perfect setting for a day of all-American family fun. Not so into this country’s alleged pastime? Grab some Made-in-Miami brews at Biscayne Bay Brewing’s new stadium Brew Hall, then eat your way through LoanDepot’s impressive vendor lineup.

Celebrate the 4th of July all day long at The Upside Rooftop at Moxy South Beach. From 1 to 10pm, partake in drink specials, all-American grub on barbecue and the best seats in the house to watch fireworks over. Each ticket includes one free Casa Azul Seltzer.

For Independence Day, Executive Chef Bradley Heron and the culinary team have devised a menu of innovative twists on classic BBQ fare. Explore items like a Corn Dog with mango mustard sauce and a Brisket Sandwich filled with bourbon smoked brisket, cheddar cheese, a fried cage-free egg and cabbage slaw on a scratch-made honey biscuit. For festive sips, try the Freedom Fizz: Four Walls whiskey infused with sweet pepper and jalapeño, fresh lime juice and ginger beer. The specials will be available all day from 11:30am to 10pm.

Wondering what the country’s favorite cocktail is? A margarita. Wondering where to sip ‘em from noon to night with a view? Cantina La Veinte. This upscale Mexican restaurant is offering 50% off drinks and bottles from 12:30 to 7pm to celebrate Independence Day, along with happy hour bites from 5 to 7pm. 

Not into six-packs and barbecues? One of Miami’s most exuberant restaurants is hosting a 4th of July dinner celebration featuring a patriotic performance and light show, with a special menu. 

Keep the Fourth festivities going into the weekend at STAMPED, Arlo Wynwood’s recurring rooftop pool party with skyline views, potent drinks and sexy Afro and Amapiano beats by Aya & Friends. July 6, 5pm; $20