Whether you’re raising your glass for Independence Day or just for having a Monday off from work, there are plenty of spots to celebrate.

Mad River
Start celebrating Independence Day a wee bit early at this July 3 Sunday Funday Patriotic Pig Roast on the 3rd. With a cornhole tournament that starts at 3 and features O’s tix and house cash for prizes (registration from 12-2:30), live music by Steve Herrera, a spread that includes a pig roast catered by Beefalo Bobs with a roasted pig, pork and beef bbq, and a slew of sides and desserts, alongside an open bar (from noon - 3), this is the way to kick off a star-spangled weekend. (1110 S Charles St.; 410-727-2333)

Rusty Scupper
Is there any better way to enjoy July 4 in Baltimore than with a table full of crabs and beer? Rusty Scupper will be hosting its annual Independence Day Topside Crab Feast from 6:30 - 10:00 with a buffet of #1 jumbo male crabs, peel and eat shrimp, and picnic-style favorites like hot dogs, hamburgers, fried chicken, and salads alongside drink specials and some giveaways. (402 Key Highway; 410-727-3678)

Wine Market 
Wine Market may not be on the water, but they do have the advantage of parking. Visit the Wine Market for their affordable yet elevated 3 course $28 prix fixe “picnic” menu (that is frankly way better than any picnic we’ve joined) and feel free to pop out to walk to the fireworks at 9:30, leaving your car in the lot. Added bonus? The prix fixe menu also includes a boozy watermelon thai basil snow cone for adults. (921 E Fort Ave.; 410-244-6166)

Wit and Wisdom
With one of the best waterfront views in Baltimore, Wit and Wisdom is hosting a family-friendly event that includes unlimited classic American cuisine alongside a raw bar and a variety of desserts. While adults can sip on the spot’s best cocktails, wine, or craft brews, children can enjoy an on-site snowball machine, face-painting, and other family-friendly activities. (200 International Dr.; 410-576-5800)

Howl at the Moon
Head down to Power Plant Live for a night of singing and drink specials at the popular piano bar. Kick the night off with specials that include $2 Sam Adams, $6 1800 Margarita Cocktails, and $20 86 oz Firework Buckets and travel outside to see the fireworks around 9:30. This spot is also featuring giveaways, prizes, and an American themed buffet. Wear red, white and blue for a free drink. (22 Market Pl.; 410-783-5111)

Some of our other favorite spots where you may be able to catch stellar views of the fireworks while sipping or swilling include BoatHouse Canton, Barcocina, Little Havana, Woody’s Rum Bar, Kooper’s Tavern (second floor if you can get lucky enough to get seated near the windows), V-No, and quite likely LB Skybar, Baltimore’s only open rooftop bar, newly opened at the Lord Baltimore Hotel.

Photo via Flickr user LaProwse