Maybe the only Independence Day you acknowledge is Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum saving everyone’s asses from the aliens. But much like Captain Steve Hiller promised Dylan, you’re still gonna see some fireworks. Here are some places to camp out and watch the bombs bursting in air (for a fee).
THE SPOTS
If you like L’Ardente for date night, imagine being on its rooftop with a backdrop of fireworks. Enjoy a three-course Italian dinner that includes cauliflower panna cotta and grilled scallops at the East End restaurant from 6-8pm, then stick around for the light show. Or skip food altogether and just do the rooftop party where you’ll have a dessert and open bar (also included). Either way, you’ll be in an air-conditioned rooftop with a DJ spinning until 10pm.
You’ve got the day off, so you might as well use it. Upstairs At The Morrow is having a day party that’ll turn into a fireworks show a.k.a. the excuse you and the homies “need” to dance from 12-11pm. Enjoy the NoMa rooftop views all day long, and if you get hungry, there’s a 4th of July barbecue downstairs at its sister restaurant, Le Clou.
Officina is putting an Italian twist on the classic all-you-can-eat 4th of July BBQ. It's serving "fan favorites," and while we don't know exactly what dishes that includes, their food is usually pretty good. The partially enclosed rooftop has nice Wharf waterfront views along the edges, which should work in your favor since it's standing room only, but you can upgrade to a couch or a fire pit table, if you want.
The Foggy Bottom rooftop has panoramic city views, which means your fireworks angles will be phenomenal. You might even be able to see shows across the river in Virginia. But the restaurant is pricey (cocktails usually run $25), so this is one of the more expensive Independence Day parties. The views are unmatched, though.
Get your standing shoes ready if you decide to hit CityBar for the fireworks. While the rooftop bar has some seating available, they say your best bet for catching the show is with the standing room tickets. The party runs from 6-11pm at the Southwest Federal Center spot, and there will be tapas available, if you’re looking for less traditional food to celebrate America’s birthday.
If you're looking for classic DC day party vibes on this 4th of July Tuesday, head to La Vie at the Wharf. The party runs from 4-10pm, so it starts late enough that you can sleep in and ends early enough that you can still make it to work on Wednesday. It's another SRO situation, so wear comfy shoes, which you'll also need if you're planning to dance to the DJ's tunes.
