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if you're feeling patriotic but don't want a backyard bbq

Whether you’re a local New Yorker or not, there are plenty of things to see and do in the ever so classic Brooklyn. And July 4th marks all the more reason to appreciate the city for its unique charm. If you’re feeling patriotic but don’t feel like having a backyard BBQ (or if you simply just don’t have the space), fear not — there are still plenty of adventures to be had. Here, we’ve rounded up 5 of our favorite BK spots along with amika products to go with, because let’s be honest, good hair is a must wherever the day takes you! So, without further ado…

  1. Domino Park

What’s by the East River, was once a sugar refinery, and has an epic Tacocina taco stand? Drumroll please…the answer is, yes, Domino Park. This 5-acre Williamsburg spot is practically a spacious backyard open to however many guests you plan on celebrating the 4th with. Visit during sunset, enjoy the golden hour view of Manhattan, and stay until the fireworks take flight. Since you’ll be outdoors the whole time, bring a travel-sized version of the shield anti-humidity spray — it can work wonders in keeping frizzies at bay.

  1. Brooklyn Museum

If the great outdoors is a bit too, well, hot, for your liking, stay cool indoors with a visit to the Brooklyn Museum. It closes at 6pm on the holiday, so head on over when doors open at 11am and spend the day amongst collections ranging from ancient Egyptian objects to contemporary art. Discover the past, present, and all that’s in-between. To go with the artsy theme, here’s a fun idea: spray on temporary hair color! Our desert trip festival kit comes in a pack of three holographic shades (think rose glow, galactic rodeo, and purple haze) so you can shine all day.

  1. Coney Island

If you don’t mind a crowd, Coney Island’s the ultimate spot for Independence Day. In fact, it’s iconic for it. Nathan’s famous hot dog eating contest will be taking place there in the morning. Walk along the boardwalk throughout the day, get a serving of freshly sliced mangos or ice cream with rainbow sprinkles and just chill out. Or be adventurous and go for a ride at Luna Park! To beat the heat hair-wise, pack a bottle of our bushwick beach no-salt wave spray with you. It’ll give you that piecey beach hair that stays put even amidst the sun and sea.

  1. Brooklyn Botanic Garden

This one’s a classic. Whether or not you choose to go on July 4th itself, try to stop by one of days during the holiday week if you have off. Watch the flowers in bloom and relax in the gardens while learning all about plant life and architecture, too. The Brooklyn Botanical Garden has an uplifting effect upon visiting — there’s just something about its calming atmosphere that is a total mood booster. As every spot is pretty much a photo opp, don’t forget to bring a mini version of the amika haute mess texture gloss with you. It has natural ingredients like honey extract and grapefruit seed extract that protects hair while giving it a lively bit of oomph.

  1. Stroll Around the Neighborhood

We get it, sometimes the most low-key things are actually the best. So, even just spending the day without set plans can be the plan. Take a walk around Dumbo, Park Slope, Carroll Gardens, Williamsburg, or wherever your heart desires. Stop and smell the flowers along the way. Independence Day is all about being free, no matter to what extent, and there’s nothing more free than letting your hair down and going for a stroll. To keep your locks looking fresh, a pocket-sized perk up dry shampoo will be your best friend. Spray it all over and the natural rich starch will absorb excess oils in a quick second — you’ll be refreshed all set to go.

By Wendy Sy, The Strand Contributor

Image via @newyorkloversnyl

the shield anti humidity spray | amika

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desert trip festival kit | amika

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Bushwick beach no-salt wave spray | amika

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haute mess texture gloss | amika

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perk up dry shampoo | amika

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