It’s 4th of July weekend in New York City. So it’s practically your civic duty to get up extra early or stay out extra late. Here are five patriotic ways to celebrate America's birthday any time of day.
Night Walking Tour of Revolutionary War New YorkIt’s no surprise to hear New York was the hot spot for Revolution-planning. Relive the glory from 2-6 a.m. on a guided stroll through the Financial District. Tour guide James S. Kaplan dishes little known facts while passing old haunts of Continental Army soldiers, including Fraunces Tavern Museum (where old George held his victory banquet) and Trinity Church (where the sun also rises). There will be a breakfast of champions (after all, we won) to follow at Porterhouse. Meeting location will be disclosed with ticket confirmation and purchase (by Fri., July 1).Mon., July 4, 2–6am. $20 ($15 for Fraunces Tavern Museum members).
Williamsburg Salsa OrchestraSince you can sleep in on Monday morning, there's no need to hold back to the sounds of an 11-piece salsa band interpreting the music of indie notables like Arcade Fire, Spoon and The Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Think of it as a great melting pot of music.Cameo, 93 N. 6th Street, between Berry and Wythe streets, Brooklyn (718-302-1180). Sun., July 3, 8 p.m. $5.
The Liberty Belle Spectacular Nothing says "God Bless America" like a little bit of bared flesh. Retro Americana is serving up a vintage Fourth to the tune of the Star Spangled Orchestra on the top of midtown’s Empire Hotel. Picture burlesque, rockabilly, tap dancing, drink-slinging, and the cityscape as backdrop.Empire Hotel Rooftop, 44 W. 63rd Street, at Broadway. Mon. July 4, 5 p.m. $20 advance; $25 at the door.
Freedom Strut and Mini Declaration SigningThere are two days for Prospect Park picnics with historical reenactments this weekend at Lefferts Historic House, one of a small number of farmhouses from Brooklyn's Dutch settlement. On Sunday, celebrate emancipation (July 4, 1827) with historic storytelling. On Monday, kids will make a feathered cap and practice their John Hancock on a reproduction of the Declaration of Independence. Lefferts Historic House, Flatbush and Ocean avenues and Empire Boulevard. Freedom Strut: Sun., July 3, 1-4 p.m. Signing: Mon. July 4, 1 p.m.
America: F*ck Yeah!Over at the spacious Bell House, the Outer Borough Brass Band plays Dixieland tunes to pump up the crowd (beer helps, too), while dogs and burgers will be cooked up on the grill. Win a round of drinks if you show the host (who you’ll recognize by the Superman costume) your patriotic undies. Obviously, entry is free if you come dressed as Wonder Woman. The Bell House, 149 7th Street, between 2nd and 3rd streets, Brooklyn. Sun., July 3., 8-11 p.m. $10.