Because this is not only America, but 'MURICA, we often forget what our country's holidays are actually about.
For example, if a holiday happens to coincide with beach weather, we collectively decide that barbecues and Coronas are the entire purpose of that particular day, that, and our day off from work (praising hands emoji).
But, in actuality, there's a lot of meaningful ways we could (probably should) be spending our national holidays.
Don't get us wrong, there's plenty of time for burgers and boat rides. That's what weekends are for, let alone holiday weekends when Monday isn't a thing.
However, it probably wouldn't hurt us us to honor what makes our country great, especially in light of recent events.
Here are the best and most patriotic ways to celebrate the Fourth of July this year in NYC.
1. Go on a Red, White & Booze Cruise - with us!
How does a vodka open bar courtesy of 50 Bleu Vodka, free beer and wine, passed h’ordeuvres, three hours of dancing, and breathtaking views courtesy of World Yacht’s absolute beaut, Duchess, sound for a 4th of July Party?
Pretty damn good, right?
Join us for our July 4th Weekend Sunset Booze Cruise and this dream can become a reality.
It’s all going down Sunday, July 3rd, 6:30 p.m., at Pier 81, located at West 41st Street & the West Side Highway– come hell, high water, rain, or shine– and the party won’t stop until at least 9:30 p.m.
That’s three, count ‘em three, hours of madness.
Seriously, what better way is there to celebrate America than by taking in breathtaking views of the greatest city in the world? Get your tickets right here!
2. Pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial
This certainly might not be the most "fun" or festive activity this Fourth of July weekend, but at its core, the holiday really isn't about fun.
[anad]
It's important to take the time to honor those we lost during one of our country's most tragic moments in history, and be grateful for the heroism of those who put their lives on the line for the sake of others.
3. See the Statue of Liberty
If you're a New Yorker and not a tourist, you've probably never been there. So, what better time than the most patriotic day of the year?
Maybe throw on a fanny pack and walk around with a giant map whilst looking generally confused, too; people are probably going to assume you're a tourist anyway so you might as well lean into it.
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4. Go on a Revolutionary War Walking Tour
If you're like us, you retained approximately 0% of the information you learned in high school about the Revolutionary War. Perhaps that's more of a reflection on us than it is the U.S. educational system, but we digress.
Independence Day is a perfect time for a refresher. There's a bunch of walking tours going on throughout the holiday weekend, all of which will be highlighting Lower Manhattan spots of significance during the Revolution.
Check out "Revolution in the Streets", a tour led by In Depth Walking Tours. Tickets are only $20, and can be purchased here.
5. Head to Staten Island
Okay, we've got to have a little fun for The Fourth, right?
Enjoy the summer weather and throw it back to simpler times with the Independence Day Party at Historic Richmond Town on Staten Island. Activities will include churning ice cream, a pinwheel parade, and a pie-baking contest.
Staten Island OutLoud will also lead two participatory readings of the Declaration of Independence to really get you in the patriotic spirit. It's totally free, but you can find more info here!
6. Celebrate on the Lower East Side
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The Liberty Belle Extravaganza: A Vintage 4th of July Rooftop Spectacular is the perfect way to celebrate this country's rich cultural history.
Attendees can look forward to include vintage entertainment like burlesque performances and vaudeville acts, as well as gorgeous rooftop views from The DL, a three-story rooftop lounge on the LES. Tickets and more info can be found here.
7. The 2nd Annual Freedom Fest at Watermark Bar @ Pier 15
You can catch yet another spectacular view of the fireworks downtown on NYC’s Pier 15 for this second annual event.
Tickets will grant access to Watermark Bar on the pier, a staple venue featuring great food, drinks and views. This all-ages event features different types of BBQ food, drinks, games and live music, and different ticket packages so there’s something for everyone.
Tickets start at $139 and can be purchased here!
Check out 8 Best Things to Do on 4th of July Weekend If You're Staying in NYC.
[Feature Image Courtesy Instagram]