What better excuse of a holiday is there to down a frothy beer and some freedom fries all in the name of our Uncle Sam? Here are some ideas to celebrate Independence Day with a bang. Leave the flag toothpicks and sparklers at home; you won’t be using them.

License to Grill

So what if you don’t have an Olympic-sized pool -- never mind an inflatable one? No one has to know your yard’s limitations if you finagle your friends into attending the BBQ at Le Merigot. Munch on all-American items like burgers, dogs, and, of course, apple pie, and toast our fair country with libations from the bar on-premise.

OK, so the parking is a nightmare and you might get stuck next to a librarian-style shusher. Even so, 4^th of July at the Hollywood Bowl is worth all of those setbacks, just to get a glimpse of the electrifying fireworks display (right) over the sounds of the LA Philharmonic. Headliner Randy Newman will relive some of his greatest hits, and rumor has it a few of our fave Dodgers will make guest appearances.

Patriot Games

If singing the Star Spangled Banner just isn’t your thing, you’ll appreciate the Cuban-style celebration at Blue Velvet (left). Gone are the lawn chairs and hot dogs in favor of a cabanas and a big ol’ suckling pig. DJ’s spinning tunes and handmade cocktails will add to the so-not-a-4^th-of-July party atmosphere.

Ice, Ice Baby

No one ever said manning the grill was easy. Cool off from all of your hard work with a cucumber margarita or a fruit agua fresca popsicle at Amaranta Cocina Mexicana.  If you’re in need of something a little stronger, go for one of the tequila flights, and you’ll be whistling a new (albeit still patriotic) tune.

Booze Cruise

Anchors aweigh! So, it doesn’t exactly move, but, regardless, the Queen Mary will sail you into just the right state of mind, combining all of ’s favorite things (think: carnival rides, booze, an unlimited buffet for VIP’s, and none other than Girlicious).

-- Compiled by Kristin Julie Viola