Well, the picture above might be tricky since fireworks are not happening on the 4th of July in Barcelona. But, guess what: there are some options to celebrate this special day in the city as well. Specially in case that you feel a bit homesick (we know that feeling), so here is a little help to make you feel at home, being far away from it.
Independence Day (or The 4th of July)
A brief explanation of what this special day means in the United States (for those Barcelonians or anyone wondering why it is such a special day on the calendar). Independence Day or the Fourth of July is the National Day of the United States. This federal holiday commemorates the Declaration of Independence of the country, which took place on July 4, 1776.
And this historical fact was key: the Continental Congress declared that the thirteen American colonies were no longer subject to King George III (monarch of Britain). From then on, they were united, free and independent states.
4th of July in Barcelona, where to celebrate
The celebration of this special day in the United States means: fireworks, barbecues, picnics, concerts, family reunions… And you might have wondered: “Is there a chance to celebrate this holiday in Barcelona the way you used to do back in the States?” And the answer is “Yes, there are” :-)
Hard Rock Cafe
The Hard Rock Cafe is one of the most famous places in Barcelona when it comes to host official American parties like Thanksgiving or Halloween. On the 4th of July, they also launch a special party to commemorate Independence Day. Specifically, if you head to this restaurant on the 4th of July you will find the staff dressed up as characters from popular US tv shows of recent times, special decorations and surprises (all throughout the day from 11.30am).
VailBeer
And there is also another option if you want to have lunch while feeling surrounded by the special atmosphere of the 4th of July: Coco Vail Beerhall. As they announce through this cool poster, they will be serving special food and drinks to celebrate this festivity in Barcelona:
Find all the details on their website.
4th of July party at the American Society of Barcelona
The American Society of Barcelona usually holds the most popular US festivities throughout the year. And so that includes the 4th of July in Barcelona. You can visit their website to get more details on the special party to commemorate Independence Day.
Meetup organized by American expats in Barcelona
When you are a newbie to the city, Meetup might be a useful resource to meet new people. And also, if you are looking to make new friends who also want to celebrate the 4th of July in Barcelona, through this platform you can search special parties launched on this day.
Throw your own 4th of July party
Celebrating Independence Day from the comfort of (your Barcelona) home is also an option. You can launch your own party with a feast of American food which probably will teleport you for a while to the US (traveling through flavors is one of our favorite ways of travel ;-)). This special party can also include some US decorations, so it helps you feel closer to your country and the way you usually celebrate this day.
From our experience of ups and downs when it comes to missing your country on special dates marked in the calendar, here is what we learned: even though you are many miles away from home, try to surround yourself with people who make you feel at home. And that might include new local friends you made, but also people from your country with whom you might share similar feelings.