How to eat your way through some of the best 4th of July events

Cookouts, hot dogs and cold beers are almost as important as the fireworks when it comes to the 4th of July.

Beyond the fireworks and parades, there are many special bar and restaurant events, festivals and street fairs planned for this holiday week.

If there are any events you think we should know about, let us know at contact@dayton.com and we’ll be sure to add it to the list. 

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🌭Street Fair at Centerville's Americana Festival

The mega-popular Americana Festival in Centerville is a hub of tempting street food. What began in 1972 as a sidewalk sale promoted by the Centerville downtown merchants is now one of the area's most celebrated and patriotic Fourth of July events.

The Street Fair, featuring more than 300 craft and food booths, will be held on Thursday, July 4 from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WHEN: 9:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. Thursday, July 4

WHERE: Downtown Centerville

>>PHOTOS: Did we spot you last year at Centerville's Americana Festival on July 4?

🌭Co-Op Cookout 

Fifth Street Brewbup is taking it easy on the patio this Fourth with a day-long cookout. The $20 per person cookout is an all-you-can-eat buffet of the Brewpub’s take on American cookout classics. Alcohol is not included and must be purchased separately. The scratch-made buffet will be available 4 p.m.- 9 p.m. and feature:

-1/2 lb Ohio-raised beef burgers w/ American cheese
-sweet potato veggie burgers
-all-beef hot dogs
-pasta salad
-mixed green salad
-lattice potato chips
-grilled corn on the cob
-potato salad

Credit: Fifth Street Brewpub

Credit: Fifth Street Brewpub

“America would not be what it is without the hard work of its citizens working together,” Fifth Street wrote in a Facebook event post. “Here at FSB, we believe cooperation is key to building community... well, that and of course amazing beer and great food. This Fourth of July, we invite you to join us in an all-day cookout with our co-op, beer-loving community.”

Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the door on the day of the cookout.

WHEN: 4 P.M.- 11 P.M. Thursday, July 4

WHERE: Fifth Street Brewpub, 1600 E. 5th St., Dayton

🌭3rd of July Picnic & Fireworks watching

The Mission of Mary Cooperative, an urban farming non-profit on the east side of Dayton, is hosting a picnic tonight from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Lincoln Hill Gardens in Dayton. The cookout begins at 7 p.m., and games will happen during the picnic to celebrate the holiday. Organizers said to bring a blanket for watching the fireworks.

Games, dinner and dessert will be provided. The picnic will also focus on discussing ideas for a new solar shelter

WHEN: 7 p.m.- 10- p.m. Wednesday, July 3

WHERE: Lincoln Hill Gardens, 401 Nassau Street, Dayton

🌭Mike's Rooftop Hip-Hop Party

Mike’s 

One of the coolest Fourth parties in Dayton is happening on the roof. Mike’s Bike Park is throwing a party from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. with tons of music and even more food. Not to mention, a full-service bar. There’s really no better way to enjoy the fireworks that will be popping up all around the city.

This event is for ages 21 and up.

“In addition to the music, we’ll be grilling and chilling with great company and a full bar available,” according to Mike’s Facebook post. “Groove to some great tunes, and gaze upon the blue-collar beauty of our hometown. Embrace the freedom to have a great time! Tickets are limited, so be sure to get yours in advance.”

Credit: Jim Witmer

Credit: Jim Witmer

Tickets are $7 in advance and $10 at the door. You can purchase your tickets online at eventbrite.com.

WHEN: 7 p.m.- 10 p.m. Thursday, July 4

WHERE: Mike's Bike Park, 1300 E. First St., Dayton

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