The Super Bowl, Thanksgiving, and the 4th of July are often the first events we’d associate with the United States.
There is something quintessential in all of them – great food (lots of it!), plenty of liquid refreshments, time with your loved ones, and of course fireworks!
4th of July makes it all even better since you can stay outdoors for the whole extravaganza and celebrate summer at the same time.
If you’re an expat looking for a taste of home this 4th of July or you’re not American but want to get involved, these are the biggest US Independence Day celebrations in the UK.
Independence Day Fair and BBQ
The American Museum in Bath organises an annual 4th of July barbeque. This year, the event will take place on July 1st, between 10.30 am and 5 pm. It’s a great occasion for the whole family – there will be fairground games and a bouncy castle to keep the kids entertained. To ensure you get your stomach full of the great American classics, Spitfire BBQ will be in charge of the grill. There’s a small admission to get into the garden but it’s definitely worth it, as this is the best Independence Day party in the UK.
Annual American Independence Day Picnic
If you want to mingle with real Americans, you want to make your way to Portman Square on July 2nd. That’s when the Democrats Abroad United (Republicans are also welcomed!) will be hosting its annual 4th of July picnic between 12 pm and 5 pm. Although the official event will end at 5 pm, you’ll surely find friends to continue the party if you want in the nearby pubs!
The picnic is not just for adults – there are plenty of supervised activities available for kids. You can purchase tickets online for a discounted early bird offer, although you can also just show up on the day if you’re not yet sure about your plans.
Grillstock Festival
While the Grillstock Festival is not actually a 4th of July extravaganza, it takes place so close to the holiday that you could treat it as an opportunity to celebrate the US. Not to mention, the whole festival is about drinking quality beer and eating delicious meet – can’t get much better or American than that. The festival takes place on July 1st and 2nd in Bristol. The tickets are selling fast so you had better act now.
Celebrate the day with good old American dishes
Finally, the UK has some stunningly tasty American restaurants that are offering plenty of treats on Independence Day. You’ll definitely want to check your neighbourhood for 4th of July treats in proper American diners. If you happen to be near these locations, we here at Fireworks Crazy also recommend checking out:
- The Lansdowne Bar and Kitchen in Glasgow
- Menagerie in Manchester
- Electric Diner in London
- Rack and Dollar in Liverpool
- Sloppy Joe’s American Diner in Colchester
- JD’s Grill in Plymouth
The restaurants always have special offers and dishes for the big day. You could also experience the American flavours in chain restaurants such as TGI Fridays and Five Guys.
Remember, you can also continue the party at home after the meal with a proper 4th of July fireworks display! Check out our online store for cracking fireworks to commemorate this great American day.
