America's 237th birthday lands on a Thursday this year, and that can mean only one thing: long weekend! Take Friday off (if you haven't already) or plan on calling in sick. You can thank us later.
Just like any birthday, we Miamians know how to celebrate with a bang, and this Fourth of July is no exception. Here are Miami's hottest Independence Day spots for all of your patriotic, pyrotechnic needs.
See also:
- Fourth of July 2013: Five Best Concerts in Miami This Week
- Fourth of July 2013: Five Best Pool Parties in Miami
8. Race to the Fourth at Homestead-Miami Speedway
The City of Homestead's annual Fourth of July celebration lets every race-car lover live their Talladega Nights dream. Live music, games, food, drinks, and rides.
Go Because: Homestead is your stomping grounds
Price: Free
6 to 10 p.m., 1 Speedway Blvd., Homestead. Call 305-230-5000 or visit homesteadmiamispeedway.com.
7. The Fourth of July Celebration at Miami Children's Museum
If you're stuck with an underage bunch this Fourth, there's good news and there's bad news. The bad news is, you're stuck with kids on your day off. The good news is, you can take them to Miami Children's Museum. There will be all kinds of patriotic activities, including flag T-shirt making, a parade of the colonies, a signing of the Declaration of Independence, a reenactment of Paul Revere's midnight ride, a special appearance by John Adams, and a confetti canon.
Go Because: You can't find a babysitter
Price: $12; kids under 1 get in free
11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 980 Macarthur Cswy., Miami. Call 305-373-5437 or visit miamichildrensmuseum.org.
6. Star Spangled Music Festival at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park
If you think you can rival Daniel Day Lewis for best Abe Lincoln look-alike, the Star Spangled Music Festival is your chance to dress up like Honest Abe and not feel out of place. At this 12-hour beach party, attendees are encouraged to dress as their favorite American hero to celebrate the men and women who have exemplified the American spirit. Enjoy live musical performances, DJ entertainment, gourmet grub from more than 20 food vendors, and the City of Key Biscayne's fireworks display.
Go Because: Proceeds benefit the Children's Survival Network
Price: Free
Noon to midnight, 4020 Virginia Beach Dr., Miami. Call 305-458-4900 or visit starspangledmusicfestival.com.
