It's that time of year when we gorge ourselves on BBQ and beer in the name of patriotism, and then watch pretty lights explode in the sky. Here's our guide to seeing the weekend out in style.

The choice is simple. Beach or city? If you're a beach lover, stop off first at Coney Island to briefly admire the resilience of the competitive hot dog-eaters at the bizarrely American phenomenon of Nathan's Famous Hot Dog annual contest. With your appetite probably ruined, head out to Rockaways for some beach time, before hitting Riis Park Beach Bazaar, where they will be hosting Get Summered, an all-day party with DJs and live acts, alongside the usual excellent food stalls. 

If you want to stick it out in the city, then choose one of the excellent day-to-night parties. In Manhattan, Dances of Vice's Mods vs Rockers at the Gansevoort Park Rooftop is a vintage-style three-floor party with live bands, go-go dancers, and skyline views, or over in Brooklyn, the rooftop of Output (from 2pm) is where to be. Up in Queens, MoMA PS1's Warm Up in the courtyard is featuring special guests for the day including former Studio 54 DJ Nicky Siano and Cut Copy. Just make sure you get yourselves to a good spot to watch Macy's iconic fireworks by 9pm.

For foodies out there, try Andrew Carmellini’s West Village restaurant The Dutch, which is hosting its usual all-day cookout running from 11am to 10pm, with specials including smoked brisket, shrimp hush puppies with pickled jalapeño, and watermelon punch. Or Seaport Smorgasburg has serious eats, and is part of the South Street Seaport’s Festival of Independence with three stages of live music and a view of the fireworks. 

Finally, if you really want to make a night of it, book a room at the Wythe Hotel for a rooftop barbecue and some of the best skyline views in Brooklyn.

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Good excuse to celebrate