5 Things to do in Bed-Stuy on the Fourth of July!!

So you’re trying to decide what to do for Independence Day, but you don’t want to travel far? Well, here are five activities happening in and around the neighborhood that will surely give you reason to celebrate!

1. Celebrate African Arts! The 42nd Annual International African Arts Festival
will kick off July 4 and run through July 7. This vibrant, colorful and fun event is one of the longest-running festivals in Brooklyn and has a little bit of something for everyone. Stop through for an hour or two… 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. rain or shine at Commodore Barry Park, Navy Street (between Park and Flushing avenues)

2. Take the Kids to the Pool! Kosciuszko Pool– Located on Marcy Avenue between DeKalb and Kosciuszko (take the B38 up Lafayette Avenue or the G to Myrtle-Willoughby), this Bed-Stuy pool is massive: 230’ x 100’ x 4’! The facilities also include a kiddie pool and locker rooms.

3. Experience the Re-Re-Birth of Cool! Swing by for the Grand Re-Opening of Frozen Social Ice Cream shop, located at 501 Franklin Ave. Garland Shields, the store’s owner, opened for a one-month trial run last summer before closing for the winter. The shop features eight flavors of ice cream as well as sorbet, gelato and five kinds of smoothies.

4. Take part in a 4th of July Fish Fry! This Thursday, Marcus Vineyard Restaurant and Bar, located at 417 Marcus Garvey (Halsey & Macon), will hold its 1st Annual 4th of July Fish Fry. Music by Hard Hittin Harry 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Cost: $30 (includes a platter and 2 (two) drink tickets.

5. Party after the Fireworks! After the fireworks are done and the BBQ is gone, what to do, what to do? Work off that chicken and potato salad, that’s what!!! Vodou Bar will host its Global Jams Thursday, 4th of July edition, where you’ll find great vibes, beautiful people and fabulous drinks. Vodou is located at 95 Halsey Street (at Nostrand Avenue), 10:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.