USA! USA! USA! 4th of July Celebrations in Beijing

The 4th of July – aka American Independence Day – is nearly upon us, and there’s a lot happening this year, starting from this weekend and lasting all the way ‘til next Saturday.

Saturday, Jun 29 (Today)

An important aspect of being an American is voting for who’s in office, and with the 2024 presidential elections coming up fast, Vote From Abroad is teaming up with The Local to host a watch party for the first presidential debate between Biden and Trump today (Jul 29) from 1-3pm.

The watch party also coincides with BBQ, drinks, and the opportunity for those who haven’t already to register for absentee ballots in order to vote while in Beijing.

When: Saturday, Jun 29, 1-3pm
Where: The Local
More details here

This event is free entry, but if you'd like to reserve a table, add localKenn on WeChat to do so

Tuesday, Jul 2

Celebrations continue at The Local with their annual Independence Day Quiz. If you think your 美国 Měiguó knowledge is up to snuff, head in by 8pm to join. There's no entry fee, but space is limited! There will be prizes for first, second, and second-to-last place. Yes, you read that right - if you're in dead last, there's still something to fight for!

Everyone is welcome to join! Although the quiz is USA-themed, we've seen teams from all over the world take first and second place! If you're from the US, you'll want to come in and defend your honor. If you're from anywhere else, come in and show off your superior knowledge.

What: Annual Independence Day Quiz
Where: The Local
Register: Add localKenn on WeChat to reserve a spot
More details here

Thursday, Jul 4

Another to head to for regular July 4th celebrations, Home Plate BBQ is hosting two parties at both of their locations this year. Expect live music (at the Sanlitun branch only), food, and drinks specials like 50 percent off frozen margaritas and three for RMB 66 on picklebacks.

What: Fourth of July Celebration
Where: Home Plate BBQ (both locations)
Register: Call the number or scan QR in the poster
More details here

To round out their 4th of July celebrations this year, The Local will be hosting a dog-friendly* BBQ with set menu options (on the patio and 1st floor), and they’ll have some options for your pup on the menu. *Please read the rules in this post here if you're planning on bringing your dog.

Sets include burgers, hot dogs, veggie dogs, and more. You can take a trip to the condiment bar to dress your burgers however you like. For pups, they’ll have some unseasoned grilled meats, as well as an unsweetened yogurt pup cup. Check the menu below for all available options:

What: Dog Friendly 4th of July BBQ
Where: The Local
Register: If you're planning on bringing your pup, it's best to reserve ahead by adding localKenn on WeChat

Saturday, Jul 6

Finally, it just wouldn’t be the 4th of July in Beijing without the big one: AmCham China’s annual America’s Backyard BBQ. Along with a feast of classic American cookout fare, there will be ice-cold beers, a live band, activities for the kids, and a raffle with all kinds of trips and experiences up for grabs.

What: AmCham America’s Backyard BBQ
Where: JW Marriot Hotel Beijing
Register: Scan the QR code in the poster to purchase tickets
More details here

READ: Summer Concerts to Look Forward to in Beijing, China & Asia

Images: Unsplash, courtesy of the organizers