Happy birthday, America! You look pretty darn good for a country that’s 242 years old. On July 4, it’s Independence Day, and Las Vegas is certainly the right town to celebrate the holiday in style. There are special shindigs popping off this week all over town to celebrate the red, white and blue.
Speaking of popping off, Stratosphere hosts a fireworks display on July 4. Head to the property’s Elation Pool for the viewing party. Doors open at 8 p.m., with the fireworks beginning at 9:15 p.m. More fireworks go off at 9 p.m. at two locals’ properties, Green Valley Ranch Resort and Red Rock Resort.
Kick it beachside—well, Vegas’ version of a beach—at Mandalay Bay Beach, where the faux waves and sand and reggae band Mystic Roots is sure to get you feeling fine in no time. The July 4 concert also feature its own fireworks display, and guests can indulge in food and cocktails throughout the event.
For more island sounds, celebrate America’s birthday a few days later on July 7 at Planet Hollywood Resort’s Red, White and Reggae Pool Party. The daytime shindig features go-go dancers, drinks specials and a bikini contest. If you’re good at the game of cornhole and you’ve got up to four friends, on July 6 you can register for the cornhole tournament taking place at the pool party beginning at 1 p.m. Registration is $50 and includes a bucket of beer, two Jack Daniels cocktails and two commemorative shirts—there’s also more than $5,000 in cash and prizes.
Just one block in from the Strip, you'll find a two-day barbecue bash, July 7-8, at Hooters Casino Hotel. Taking place outdoors at The Porch from noon-5 p.m., for $19.99 per person, guests can take a dip in the pool and indulge in buckets of beer and barbecue treats such as brisket and corn on the cob and macaroni and cheese.
At the wickedly fun and laid-back Carnaval Court at Harrah’s, catch a free Save Ferris concert on July 7 and even more groovy sounds with the Reggae Sunday party on July 8. The party offers drinks specials throughout the day as well as swag and carnival games, and you can always try your luck at the blackjack tables set up around the perimeter of the bar.
