Miami goes all out for Fourth of July. There are not one, not two but three major fireworks displays happening simultaneously across the city, plus several more pyrotechnic spectaculars planned just north in Fort Lauderdale. In most instances, these flashy celebrations are accompanied by picnics, live music and performances that make commemorating America’s independence really, really fun. Before you go out and buy up every last red-white-and-blue thing at Target for your own backyard bash, check out these Miami July 4th events and find one that suits your patriotic party style.
Fireworks Spectacular at the Biltmore Hotel
Our country’s forefathers may have struggled in the fight for independence, but that doesn’t mean we need to give up air-conditioning, craft cocktails or proper silverware to honor them. Celebrate this great nation with an open bar, a themed catered dinner and a brilliant light show at the Biltmore’s Fireworks Spectacular. Saving your American pennies? Bring your own chairs, park yourself on the 18-hole golf course and enjoy the display for free. 5pm; $180; fireworks display free.
America’s Birthday Bash at Bayfront Park
It doesn’t get more ’Murican than America’s Birthday Bash at Bayfront Park, complete with a beer garden and grilled dogs and burgers for sale. Downtown’s annual blowout also packs in musical performances and,
just after 9pm, a dazzling fireworks display over Biscayne Bay. 3pm; free.
Fireworks at Lummus Park
If you want nothing more than to watch a killer fireworks display, the annual South Beach show is the one for you. The event’s free to watch and even more fun to catch while knocking back cocktails at one of Ocean Drive’s sidewalk cafés. Ocean Dr between 5th and 15th Sts, Miami Beach. 9pm; free.
Key Biscayne Fourth of July Parade
Get filled with pomp at the Key Biscayne Fourth of July Parade, where jets fly overhead and marching bands and red-white-and-blue floats march down the main drag. It all wraps up with a spirited picnic and a fireworks spectacular. Crandon Blvd between Harbor and West Enid Drs, Key Biscayne; 11am; free.
Fourth of July with DJ Obscene at E11even
Party with iHeartRadio’s DJ Obscene, who’s shared the stage with the likes of Miley Cyrus and Pitbull, among numerous other celebs. Arrive before 8pm for free admission and head upstairs to E11even’s rooftop for a clear view of the Downtown Miami fireworks. free, after 8pm $20.
BBQ & Beer Bash at Diplomat Landing
Here’s an event with all the trappings of a classic Fourth backyard party with zero of the usual clean up. Pay $45 for a riverfront table and access to unlimited Budweiser brews on draft, a selection of smoked barbecue entrées and live music. Noon–9pm; $45.
Fireworks watch party at the Diplomat Beach Resort
Skip the ground-level views for a better vantage point: the 33rd floor of the Diplomat Beach Resort. Unlimited cocktails while you catch the light show make this a true July 4th fete. 9pm; $100.
Famous Fourth of July Picnic + Fireworks Celebration at Regatta Park
Pack a picnic and head to Coconut Grove’s annual July 4th event along the water. There will be play zones for the kids, live music by Spam Allstars and a photo booth where you can capture all the fun. 6–9pm; free.
Freedom Fest at Gulfstream Park
It’s a day at the races meets a glittering display of patriotism. Live racing begins at 1:15pm while the July 4th festivities get on around 6pm and feature giveaways, a fountain show at Pegasus Park, live music and a fireworks display. 1–10pm; free.
Fourth of July Beer Fest and BBQ at the Wynwood Yard
Drinks, food and live music—just your typical Independence Day party in Wynwood. Head to the Yard to sample beer from Veza Sur, Wynwood Brewing, Concrete Beach and other local breweries; catch a performance by Miami’s ESCO at 4pm; and eat your way through the Yard’s delicious food trucks, featuring barbecue, Brazilian fare and more. noon–8pm; RSVP required.
Independence Day at St. Roch Market
Palm Court’s food hall moves the party outdoors to the rooftop patio. Enjoy themed cocktails from Mayhaw Bar, like tasty red-white-and-blue coolers, southern-style grub from Coop, featuring July 4th specials such as BBQ chicken, potato salad and bacon-wrapped hot dogs, and crab burgers and lobster rolls from Elysian Seafood. 11am–7pm; free.
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