Star-Spangled Saturday

It’s Independence Day again, which means it’s time to celebrate our nation’s born-on date by shooting deadly weapons into the sky, grilling gigantic racks of charred pig flesh, and drinking American-size quantities of American-made beer. Or, for a more local approach, try following our Fourth of July Roundup, the perfect itinerary for the patriotic Miamian.

The day begins at 7 a.m. with the ninth race in the BlueCross BlueShield of Florida’s 2009 Running Series: a 5K that begins at Tamiami Park (11201 SW 24th St., Miami) and ends inside FIU Stadium (11310 SW 17th St., Miami). Proceeds go to the Miami Dade Parks and Recreation Track Club. Register now at runmiami.com or pay $30 on race day.

After your heartbeat returns to normal, catch a ride to the Barnacle Society (3485 Main Hwy., Coconut Grove) for its Fourth of July Picnic and Old-Fashioned Celebration. Your kids will love the lawn bowling, kite-making, and scavenger hunt while you dig in to hot dogs, popcorn, and soft drinks. Admission is five dollars, or two dollars for kids ages 6 to 12 and free for kids under 6. The activities run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 305-442-6866 or visit thebarnacle.org.

At 5 p.m., it’s time to stroll over to Peacock Park (2820 McFarlane Rd., Coconut Grove) for Miami’s annual July 4th Festival. Enjoy music by Ryan Stone, First October, Juan Turros 4’tet, and Campo Deluxe. The fireworks show will begin at 9 p.m. Admission is free. Call 305-444-7270.

For even more things to do on the Fourth, see our complete guide on Riptide.
Sat., July 4, 7 a.m., 2009