Regional Roundup: Freedom Fests

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It's a day of independence, and you can freely spend it how you please. But across the region, your fellow Americans will be gathering for watermelon gorging, hot dog grilling, and sky-bursting on this red, white, and blue summer day. Pick your place, pack a picnic, and party like it's 1776.

Fourth of July in North Louisiana

From Monroe to Minden to Shreveport, freedom fests reign with all the verve of a true Louisiana celebration. Expect barbecue, fireworks, 5Ks, and more. Click here for the full schedule.

Fourth of July on the Northshore

It's known for its fantastic food and drink, and even more for its spectacular scenery—so combine that all into a celebration of national pride and you've got something serious. The festivities kick off with Light Up the Lake on the Mandeville Lakefront or the live music celebration at the Abita Springs Trailhead. Click here for the full schedule. 

Fourth of July in Acadiana 

They aren't Canadians anymore! Head down to Cajun country for Lafayette's Uncle Sam's Jam, New Iberia's parade, and Lake Charles' annual Red, White, Blue & You Celebration, and much much more. Click here for the full schedule. 

Fourth of July in Natchez 

The Mississippi River's an icon of this country, and as such it is only fitting that it be one of the best sites for Independence Day fireworks, and the little towns beside it get a five star view. New Roads throws a spectacular boat parade every year, St. Francisville goes all out with the fireworks, and Natchez invites all to settle in on the bluff. Click here for the full schedule. 

Fourth of July in Greater Baton Rouge

From parades to fireworks on the grand Mississippi, Baton Rouge will be bursting with patriotism this first weekend of July. Click here for the full schedule.

Fourth of July in the New Orleans Area

From fireworks and patriotic concerts in Jefferson to steamboat river cruises, New Orleans predictably parties for Independence Day. Click here for the full schedule.

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Denny Culbert

Chef Isaac Toups' Double-Cut Pork Chop with Cane Syrup Gastrique from Toups Meatery.

Fourth of July Recipes

Thanks to some of New Orleans' favorite chefs and bartenders, here are some perfect summer recipes for the grill and for large-format cocktails, to take your patriotic party to the next level. 

For the Grill

Chef Isaac Toups' Grilled Double-Cut Pork Chop with Cane Syrup Gastrique

Chef Isaac Toups' Grilled Garden Veggies with Bacon Vinaigrette

Chef Nina Compton's Grilled Gulf Shrimp with Heirloom Tomatoes Salad

Chef Sophina Uong's Grilled Chanterelles with Ginger Scallion Oil

Chef Bryan Landry's Wagyu Beef Hot Dogs with Criollo Salsa

For your Glass

Bartender Chris Hannah's American Orange Punch

Chef Bryan Landry's Bourbon Slush

(And, for the love of America, please let someone else handle the fireworks if you'll be drinking. Cheers!)