Americans take a lot of guff from the rest of the planet, and deservedly much of the time. We're arrogant and egocentric. We assume the world should speak English. And, as the only standing superpower after the Cold War, we like to flex our freedom muscles and export democracy to the rest of the world like a banned performing enhancement substance -- whether they want it or not.
Hey, it's just who we are. And it's pretty damn rad. So when July 4th rolls around, we like to celebrate America, America-style. Miami's takes a lot of heat for its diverse population, much of which doesn't have its papers, but that's the essence of America. And we challenge any city in the union when it comes to the variety and quality of our Fourth of July celebrations. Read on for the best six Fourth parties in town:
6. Key Biscayne Fourth of July Parade
If anything, the Fourth of July is a chance for you to get together with
the family and celebrate patriotism. But if you're looking to avoid
inebriated patriots swerving all over the highways late at night, you
can't do better than the Key Biscayne Fourth of July Parade. The parade
starts at 11 a.m. on Crandon Boulevard at Harbor Drive with a flyover of
jets and goes south to West Enid. There's a concert stage at the
Village Green Park, costume contest, and floats. Visit kb4.org.
5. Coconut Grove Fourth
All that patriotism is bound to get you hungry, so later in the day
flock to Peacock Park along with many of the
city's food trucks. The Grove's Independence Day celebrations will be
spread throughout the Grove with the Barnacle hosting a picnic ($5), a
scavenger hunt through the neighborhood, a hot dog eating contest at
Cocowalk, and a firework display over Biscayne Bay. Call 305-444-7270 or visit coconutgrove.com for more info.
4. Independence Day Celebration in Aventura
For those who live in the northern parts of town (you know, closer to
the rest of America), it makes sense to show up for the 16th annual
Independence Day celebration in along Country Club Drive in Aventura. A
fireworks show will be visible from anywhere on the road but best
visible from the top of the Aventura Mall parking garage. Bring you own
chairs. The show starts at 9 p.m. And if it's rained out it will be
rescheduled for the following night. Call 305-466-8930 or visit cityofaventura.com.
3. Fourth of July in Keys
Perhaps the best place to watch fireworks is on the sandbar just off
Islamorada where hundreds of boaters have showed up to enjoy the
firework display at Founders Park (Mile Marker 87 on Plantation Key) for
years. If you don't have a boat, just drive on over to the park at 6:30
p.m. where there will be entertainment and activities for kids, teens,
parents, and dogs. The fireworks start at 9 p.m. Call 305-853-1685.
2. South Beach Style
If you're brave enough to brave South Beach crowds, then you'll be
rewarded with a concert stage and fireworks show at Eight Street and
Ocean Drive on Miami Beach. The concerts feature a variety of Jazz acts
starting at 6:30 p.m. while fireworks starts at 9 p.m. Shuttles will be
available to take revelers to North Beach and along Washington Avenue.
Call 305-673-7400.
1. America's Birthday Bash at Bayfront Park
If you believe bigger is better, and most Americans do, then you won't
want to miss the largest show firework show in town at Bayfront Park. The America's Birthday Bash includes
free kids zone event at the park from 3 to 7 p.m. The fireworks show
starts at 9 p.m Visit bayfrontparkmiami.com.
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