With Independence Day falling smack in the middle of the week, there’s a built-in excuse for you to celebrate into – and through – the weekend. Because having the freedom to celebrate is reason enough to celebrate.
Thursday
Pajama vs. Lingerie Foam Party: I know some of us ladies will forgo a night out just to bypass the getting-ready process, so how about a night where you don’t even have to change out of your pajamas? The patio at Halo (820 Hamilton St.) is being transformed into a foam party via four mega foam machines and water bazookas, and you can win up to $500 in cash and prizes in the sexy lingerie contest. 18 and older. Doors open at 10 p.m. Ladies free before 11:30. 646-307-3878.
Friday
A Night of Smooth Jazz featuring Andrew Williams and Detroit Ballroom Steppers: The Lake Norman House of Jazz (19501 W. Catawba Ave., Cornelius) hosts live music followed by a ballroom dancing party, no partner required. So you can go find a date, or jazz up a date night, literally. 8:30-11:30 p.m. $10. 704-895-5545.
Nights of Fire: Carowinds (14523 Carowinds Blvd.) lights up the sky with the first in a series of nightly fireworks displays that will run through Aug. 12. With kids occupied by all the attractions, the parents can socialize amongst themselves – so it’s a party for the whole family. $26.99-$44.99 for park admission at www.carowinds.com.
Salute the Troops Party: Honor those who fought for our independence at Prohibition (200 N. Tryon St.). Bring an item to go to the troops overseas (such as toiletries, snack foods, condiments, board games, and books) and you get three drinks courtesy of Carolina Nightlife. 8 p.m. 704-358-4244.
Saturday
Hardcore Lounge: The band – along with Jason Herring and Alex Kastanas – will be at Petra’s Piano Bar (1919 Commonwealth Ave.), performing live with a real piano for the first time. 10 p.m. 704-332-6608.
Red, White and Boom Holiday Hangover Party: The Wild Wing Café in University City (711 W. Mallard Creek Church Road) will have three DJs, so you can do a little indepen-dance, and get a little hair of the dog that bit you this week. No cover, ever. 704-708-9453.
Or you can just take it easy and go to the movies to see “Magic Mike,” for the plot (right, ladies?).
