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It’s time to throw on some stars and stripes and hit the town, because it’s Independence Day weekend! From fireworks to pool parties and beer fests, Vegas has it all.

Obviously, the Fourth of July calls for some bombs bursting in air, and there are so many great ways to catch firework displays all over the valley. Wander anywhere on the Strip to catch the show that shoots off from Caesars Palace at 9 p.m. Given the proximity, consider viewing from either the Fountains of Bellagio, a rooftop bar like Ole Red Las Vegas at the Grand Bazaar Shops, or the High Roller observation wheel at The Linq Promenade that takes you up 550 feet. You can also see the spectacle from above when you take a nighttime flight on Maverick Helicopters. Offering a 10- to 12-minute Vegas Views trip above the Strip and downtown, Maverick is the perfect way to see fireworks like you’ve never seen before.

Photo by: Courtesy

Resorts World Las Vegas provides a phenomenal view of the overhead pyrotechnics from its Athena Infinity Ultra Pool. With a dazzling view of the city, this 1,800-square-foot pool might just be one of the best places to perch for the festivities. Also, catch some awesome entertainment at the property all weekend long with James Hype playing Zouk Nightclub on July 3 and Carrie Keller playing Ayu Dayclub on July 4, all before Zouk and Ayu combine for Nelly’s special nighttime pool performance. July 5 brings Kaskade to Ayu for a backyard barbecue (featuring Wahlburgers) and Illenium to Zouk for the evening. 

For more bright bursts, head downtown to Plaza for its weekly Friday “Welcome to the Weekend” fireworks spectacular. Viewable from the rooftop pool deck and Carousel Bar beginning at 9:15 p.m., this entertaining extravaganza brings a block party vibe to the lively downtown area. Have an exceptionally fun time watching the sky light up at Golden Nugget’s Night Swim at the Tank Pool. On July 4, High Rocktane takes the stage to provide live tunes while guests sip, swim and shoot down a water slide that goes through the Tank’s centerpiece shark aquarium.

Photo by: Ryan Gobuty

Also downtown, head to Stadium Swim at Circa Resort & Casino on July 4 at 5 p.m. for the second annual Bikinis and Weenies hot dog eating contest, which features beautiful bikini-clad women scarfing down as many American Coney Island dogs they can in five minutes for up to $2,500 in cash. Stick around until 9:15 p.m. to catch the Plaza fireworks.

If indoors is where you like to be, we can’t blame you. That’s where the air conditioning is, after all. Celebrate at AREA15’s Red, White and Brews Spirits and Beers Bash on July 5. Sample countless beers and spirits from brands like Old Man Liver, a whiskey brand developed by the owner of Southern Nevada’s oldest bar, Pioneer Saloon, or Neon Desert Brewing, a craft beer brand known for its unique brews and custom labels.

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