Independence Day Alternatives

Fireworks photo tagged Bostonist by Aero Racer E on Flickr

Here are some more most-awesome modes of non-traditional celebration of an American tradition. Did that make sense? Probably not. Regardless:

Fire It Up (Not the Grill)

The state pretends it limits fireworks for our "safety," but maybe they just don't want us to have any fun. Massachusetts has some of the country's most restrictive fireworks code. Pennsylvania is the closest state with lax laws, so visit the cradle of independence if you're feeling frisky--and fiery. New Hampshire is also a little more lenient than Massachusetts. Wherever you go and whatever you set off, be safe: we don't want you to blow your hand (or face, or foot, or anything else) off after a couple of beers (or no beers at all).

Skip the Freedom Trail

Odds are, you probably walk the Freedom Trail frequently--to get to work, perhaps, or maybe it's on the way to your favorite bar (which is Cheers, right?). Skip that tired trail and try a tour that might teach you a thing or two. The Black Heritage Trail progresses from a monument to the 54th Regiment (Massachusetts' first regiment to include black soldiers) to the African Meeting House, the oldest black church building in the U.S. and an important gathering place in the abolitionist movement. The Black Heritage Trail may not be traditionally associated with Independence Day, but it represents an important--and often neglected--part of our history.

Stuff Your Face

We already brought you a tasty July 4 cake recipe. But there are plenty of other options for self-stuffing when it comes to Independence Day. You could follow our forefathers' footsteps and eat some spoon bread (of which TJ was supposedly a fan), or get all Warrant with a Washington-approved cherry pie. If you're feeling adventurous, trek down to NYC for the annual Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest. Or, if you're just feeling hungry, hold an eating contest of your own--you don't even have to invite anyone! After all, nothing's more American than obesity.

Got any other Independence Day alternatives to recommend?