Where Y’at this Weekend: Bubbles & Beats, Uncle Sam Jam, Hot Dog Eating contest, Essence Fest

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Happy Fourth of July, a thrilling time of year to gather with friends to celebrate our country’s birthday. There are plenty of exciting things to do with the entire family, including firework shows, hot dog eating contests and enjoying great live music! Here are Where Y’at’s weekend picks:

• First, on Thursday, July 3, dance to the rhythm of summer as the Royal Sonesta Hotel presents Bubbles & Beats. The party in the hotel’s courtyard includes live music from Margie Perez, sparkling wine and passed hors d’oeuvres from Restaurant R’evolution. If you can’t make it Thursday, Bubbles & Beats returns on Aug. 7.
• Celebrate Independence Day on Thursday night, July 3, with Uncle Sam Jam at Lafreniere Park. The free party features award-winning artists, including Don McLean and Shenandoah, as well as food from over a dozen local vendors. Uncle Sam Jam will close out Thursday with the Salute to America Firework Show.
• Next, what better way to enjoy our nation’s birthday than with a hot dog?! Dat Dog features its second annual Hot Dog Eating Contest on Friday, July 4, at its Freret Street location, where participants will compete for a grand prize of $500. There will also be cold beer, live music, and more to raise funds for Son of a Saint.
• Finally, Essence Fest is back! The festival features over 20 immersive experiences, including the Essence Film Festival, BeautyCon and headliners like Master P and Patti Labelle, celebrating this year’s theme of “Made Like This,” honoring Black excellence and culture.

For more ideas of things to do this Fourth of July weekend, pick up the latest issue of Where Y’at Magazine at coffee shops, restaurants and retail outlets all over Greater New Orleans, or visit the Where Y’at website to read the new edition online.

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