Lucky for you, freedom means it’s OK to put off making Independence Day plans until the last minute; the 4th is one of those rare holidays that doesn’t have to be stressful. Leave the cooking and booze mixing to someone else, and hit up one of these sizzling soirees.
Sparks will fly
True, barbecues and the 4th go together like turkey and Thanksgiving, but this year you’ve got a chance to really heat things up–and we’re not talkin’ burgers on the grill. At Enclave’s IndepenDANCE Eve bash, DJs Nathan Scott and Kalendr keep the beats coming, along with percussionist Ricky Rocks; get there early (9-10:30 p.m.) for a hosted cocktail reception. 9 p.m. Monday. $20. RSVP at globaladrenaline.net or text “global enclave” to 46786 for free entry for women, half-price admission for men before 11 p.m. 213 W. Institute Pl. 312-654-0234.
Keep the fire burning
Then at midnight, follow the crowd to RiNo, and officially start your 4th off right at Land of the Free, Home of the Misbehaved, with DJ Ryan Norsworthy. Midnight Monday. $20. RSVP at globaladrenaline.net for free admission for women, half-price admission for men. 343 W. Erie St. 312-587-3433.
Hotter than a firecracker
Party like it’s 1776 (you know those forefathers liked their liquor) and get patriotic with a rosy pomegranate martini ($6) at Plush’s Red, White and Booze Party. Other specials include $5 Makers shots, $3 Corzo tequila, $3 beer bottles and $6 Bacardi Razz mojitos. Martin “Boogieman” Luna plays music videos all night to support your sizzling moves. Need a break from the scorching scene? Catch a breeze on the nightspot’s cool patio. 9 p.m. Tuesday. No cover. 1104 W. Madison St. 312-491-9800.
Who doesn’t look good in red, white and blue?
Just because the fireworks end with a bang doesn’t mean the night’s finished. Skip the ear-splitting finale and walk on over to Le Passage for Show Your Colors. DJ White Shadow spins hip-hop and house all night, but make sure you’re there in time for the Stoli reception from 10 to 11 p.m. Plus, fuel up for the long haul with a special all-American menu. 10 p.m. Monday. $10. RSVP at chicagotwentysomething.com for free entry before 1 a.m. 937 N. Rush St. 312-255-0022.
Red and blue are so last year
Dying to show off that sweet summer tan? Nothing enhances a glow like chic white. Swathe yourself in our favorite summer shade and hit up the White Party at Reserve, where thematic attire scores you free VIP entry before 11 p.m. and half-price entry after 11 p.m. when you RSVP. A scorching DJ lineup includes Billy the Kid, Gus Karass, Martin “Boogieman” Luna and others; plus, get motivated to move by the Graffiti and Lucky 7 dancers. (Psst: Don’t miss the confetti storm at midnight.) 8 p.m. Monday. $20. RSVP to 312-505-2111 or tommyz@tommyzproductions.com. 858 W. Lake St. 312-455-1111.
Shipshape celebration
A booze cruise with butlers? Now that’s first class. Get decked out for an Independence Day Cruise on the Spirit of Chicago. A ticket on this ship lands you the perfect seat for fireworks viewing, plus an open bar, a loaded prime-rib buffet and live entertainment. DJs also are on board, so get ready to rock the boat. Boarding at 6 p.m. Monday. $159. 600 E. Grand Ave. 866-211-3804.
Dance your patriotic pants off
Show your stripes by shaking your booty at Transit’s Red, White and Blue Party, where eight DJs spin a little something for everyone. True to name, expect a colorful, patriotic transformation of this nightclub. Features a hosted cocktail reception from 10 to 11 p.m. 10 p.m. Monday. $20. RSVP to bapresents@yahoo.com for free admission before 11 p.m. 1431 W. Lake St. 312-491-8600.
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