This impromptu brisa that has befallen New York City is a clear omen of good things to come this 4th of July fin de semana. Sure, it will probably go back to scorching and painful. But as long as you know where you’re going this weekend, you can plan ahead for the hot flashes. So Remezcla has your best interest in mind. Here we’ve highlighted some events you CAN’T miss this 4th of July weekend. Whether it’s partying with West Coasters, dancing and shoegazing at the MoMA’s PS1 the day before, or gettin’ down with the cumbia get down against a backdrop of fireworks…you will sin duda have a great 4th of July.
Like any other holiday in this great country of ours, 4th of July is all about FOOD! And amen to that because we can’t imagine taking in all these great events without a little picaera. So we’ve also chosen food spots to satiate the daily crave, all conveniently located near each event. Yes. We’ve made this entirely too easy. But holidays aren’t for thinking. So, you’re welcome!
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SAT, JULY 3
BAILE Y ART: COMBINED!
A day of cultural intake before the big day might do you some good. But it is 4th of July weekend after all. So while you can tell people you’re going to the MoMA’s PS1 for the wealth of knowledge, you’re really going for Barcelona’s electro-dream droners Delorean. They’ve claimed international and domestic success, primarily with their album Subiza, which is a great mix of style and raw. The band will kick off MoMA’s 2010 Warm Up Music Series, held within the architectural installation created by the winner of the annual MoMAPS1 and MoMA-organized Young Architects Program. Also, you get to enjoy fellow Barcelonero John Talabot’s super fun and chill mixes (he often remixes Delorean). Dancing by architectural structures? Yes, please!
Download Delorean’s Subiza at
Download John Talabot’s Matilda’s Dream at
FOOD PICK
Pre or post show, a classic arepa is the perfect quick, no-fuss bite. Arepas Cafe serves up all styles (you can even create your own!) in a super casual setting, so don’t worry about the flip flops and star-spangled-banner t-shirts.
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SUN, JULY 4
FIREWORKS AND CUMBIA
Celebra el 4 de Julio your way with some serious cumbia, courtesy of Colombia’s La Cumbiamba eNeYé. Lay on Battery Park’s lawn and exercise your right to people watch while dancing along the day to the group’s tambor/flauta/maraca mezcla. The River to River Festival, founded in 2002, always showcases renowned worldwide acts for any palate, all housed in New York’s downtown spread. What better way to match the fireworks than with La Cumbiamba’s signature vibrancy? The sprawling crowd mix will make for a great example of just how wonderful a melting pot this country is.
Download La Cumbiamba eNeYé’s La Palma at
FOOD PICK
If the whole blanket and basket and potato salad thing isn’t your thing…then we suggest Rayuela. This Lower East Side spot is gorgeous on the inside and on the plate, serving up what they call freestyle Latin cuisine. So after an entire day of grass sitting and sweating, you’ll appreciate the upgrade in comfort that Rayuela offers.
ALL-DAY SHENANIGANS
Coasts unite for a day-long FREE 4th of July bash that is sure to have you celebrating the red, white, and blue (whichever flag that might be!). Cali’s Tormenta Tropical boys, Disco Shawn and Oro11, will bow their East Coast Tour at Williamsburg’s Union Pool. They’ve brought their friends, too: our very own Qué Bajo?! party starters (Uproot Andy and Geko Jones), Brooklyn’s Matt Shadetek, Dave Nada, y más. And word is there’s a very special, super top secret guest. Curiosity alone should lead you to this party.
Download Matt Shadetek’s Flowers at
FOOD PICK
Tack truck it up! Union Pool’s El Diablo will be in full force feeding you on the cheap all day. Endless Summer will for sure be around as well (you can never go wrong with their chorizo).
LATE-NIGHT SAZON
If day-time celebrations don’t tire you out completely, then head to SOB’s for Juan de Marcos González and The Afro Cuban All-Stars. González is one of the most important names in Cuban music who has made it his mission to show his country’s music in its diverse glory. The Afro-Cuban All Stars are former members of the Buena Vista Social Club. When both artists combine, it’s like some supernatural force has come alive and taken over your ears. This is a great way to end your 4th of July night.
Download Juan de Marcos González and The Afro Cuban All-Stars’ Step Forward at
FOOD PICK
Keep it local! Splurge on a mojito and classic cuban sandwich at SOB’s while you take in the sounds. This is where laziness pays off.