4th of July In Brooklyn: What To Do - 2012

The Fourth of July is more than just fireworks: There are BBQs, events at Coney island, picnics and July 4th parties all over Brooklyn. We've put together this list of 20 ideas and events to help you celebrate or just relax on Independence Day. (And if you do want to see the Macy's New Jersey fireworks from Brooklyn, here's where to go.)

- The start of the Nathan's Famous July 4th International Hot Dog-Eating Contest will return to its original time, 12 noon, to accommodate HUGE crowds. (Ladies tee off at 11:30 a.m.) The pre-show at 10 a.m. includes a performance by the Coney Island Strongman and several live bands. Jumbotron! Even better: Watch it on ESPN3. Nathan's

- While you're in Coney Island, check out the amazing sea life and water exhibits at the New York Aquarium. NY Aquarium

- Cyclones vs Williamsport: Spend some time at the beach and then cap your day off with the first-place Brooklyn Cyclones and postgame fireworks. Tickets start at just $9. Brooklyn Cyclones

- Let's party: At Dekalb Market (Willoughby and Flatbush) in Downtown Brooklyn, "Deep Space: Mission 1" runs from 3 - 9 p.m. with Francois K, King Britt, FaltyDL and Infinity. Tickets are on sale. Flyer for the party is at Brooklyn Vegan.

- Have a BBQ. There are seven parks in Brooklyn where BBQing is permitted. Find out which ones at About.com. 

- The 41st Annual International African Arts Festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. rain or shine at Commodore Barry Park (Navy Street at Park and Flushing Avenues). Chess tournaments, magic shows, fashion shows, African Marketplace, food, etc. McBrooklyn

- The 5th Annual Greater Bay Ridge 4th of July Picnic will be held from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., at the park field located at 82nd Street and Shore Road. Music by 8 live bands, face painters, games, prizes, rides for the kids and more. Sen. Golden

- In Park Slope? Head to Skylark on 5th Avenue. During the day they'll be opening their backyard and serving up dogs and sliders. FIPS

- The Brooklyn Museum is open on July 4th from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Catch Keith Haring before the show closes July 8. Brooklyn Museum

- Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Check out the beautiful gardens, a monumental woven-wood sculpture, and the summer garden exhibit. BBG

- Take the East River Ferry to points in Brooklyn and Manhattan. It's a cool and cheap ($4!) way to enjoy the water. ERF

- Beats & BBQ: “Soulful Dance Music, BBQ and You” from 3 to 11 p.m. at LP ‘n Harmony (683 Grand Street), Williamsburg. See Fusicology

- Less Miserable: A cast of 50 is coming to a 626 Bushwick Avenue church space to perform a three-hour "radical" interpretation of Victor Hugo's classic "Les Miserables." 10-piece orchestra, 20-foot revolving stage. 8 p.m. DNAinfo

- Paper Box in Bushwick is having a cookout, live performances and a "bring your own meat" grill. Brooklyn Exposed

- Special Independence Day events at Prospect Park include "Eagle as Icon" at the Audubon Center and "Declare Independence" at Lefferts Historic House. Prospect Park

- Pool party, BBQ, music and synchronized swimmers at King and Grove, Williamsburg. ($65) Brooklyn Exposed

- Spiderman. 3D. Just saying.  

- Brown Sugar will head up a five band benefit for Brandworkers at The Acheron in Bushwick. See Brooklyn Vegan

- Brooklyn Wildlife 4th of July BBQ, interactive games, live music. Facebook

- Live music -- folk, old-time and blues -- at Jalopy in Red Hook.

- More July 4 events at Brooklyn Vegan and Brooklyn Exposed.

Photo of 368 Henry Street by MK Metz

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