Sunday, July 4
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMERICA: Head down to the front of the Art Museum to celebrate America with a free concert by The Roots and Sheryl Crow. Philly’s own hip-hop heroes will open for the country-rock icon at 8 p.m. When all is said and done, stick around for an amazing fireworks show.
MEATLESS BBQ MADNESS: The Fourth of July weekend can be a trying time for those of the leaf-eating community. With hot dogs and hamburgers on grills all over, temptation can be almost too overwhelming. But fret not, head down to Clark Park for a barbecue featuring nothing but the best of vegan/vegetarian food. Public Eye: Artists for Animals and The Vegan Bus, a full-sized school bus running on waste vegetable oil, will throw the free shindig at 11 a.m. A picnic lunch, blanket/lawn chairs and drinks for your family is encouraged. For more information, call 215.620.2130 or head to the Public Eye Web site.
A HUNTER’S STORY: Remember those who serve the country by heading down to Cerulean Arts Gallery and Studio, and check out veteran Tom Hunter’s work. Damn the Valley is a collection of photographs from Hunter’s time as a sergeant in the 173rd Airborne Division while stationed in Afghanistan. Fellow soldiers and their living quarters, the Afghan people, seemingly quiet landscapes and serene still-life images are all captured in this moving collection. The gallery is open from noon until 6 p.m. and tickets are free. For more details, call 267.514.8647, or check out Cerulean’s Web site.
Also, check out where the the fireworks are happening in your area.
Sunday, July 5
I’M ON A BOAT: Set sail from Center City and traverse the Schuylkill River to the nation’s oldest botanical garden. Stroll the lawns and meadows of Bartram’s garden and take a tour of the Bartram Manor. Tickets cost $25 for adults, and $20 for students and children under 12. To buy tickets, or for more information, call 888.748.7745.
DRINK AWAY THE DAY: Food, music beer and the Phillies, Drinker’s Pub in Center City has it all. Feast on $1 burgers, hot dogs and tacos with jamming out to DJ Bo Bliz. Plus, with $5 Bud Light pitchers all day and $5 Cruzan cocktails after 10 p.m., Drinker’s extends Independence Day to Independence Weekend.
DIDDY DID IT: Turn your swag on and head to the Moshulu for the “All White Soiree” to benefit the Philadelphia School District. The all-ages event features two live bands, two DJs and V.I.P. service if requested. Partial proceeds will be used to getting books and materials for the area kids. Regular admission is $25. For more information, call 215.923.2500 or head to the Moshulu Web site.
