Dispatch From Newport: Fourth Of July Recap

by Cary Randolph Fuller · July 7, 2010

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    The sailing capital of America takes the Fourth of July to a whole 'nother level, so naturally we had to witness this famed patriotic madness. After three days of concerts, beach parties, and a certain hotel's grand opening bash, we definitely need a vacation from our vacation.

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    Festivities kicked off on Saturday evening with an over-the-top party at Forty 1 North to celebrate the hotel and marina's completion, and to be perfectly honest, it showcased a side of Newport that we've never really seen before. Miami-based Brendan O'Hara and the Big Bounce Collective played three wild sets - if you haven't seen them yet, be sure to catch this band at Ella where they headline regularly. Ladies dripped with jewels (many provided by fellow new arrival Badgely Mischka), DJ Neil Nice spun "Brooklyn-style" remixes, and on the stark, modern Pavilion deck, surrounded by Lucite and million-dollar yachts, the whole vibe was more South Beach deco than Colonial charm. Not that we were complaining!

    There were more bodies than sand at every beach on the island this past Sunday.

    On the Fourth we slept off our hangovers and kept the vibe mellow with beaches, barbecues, and TWO performances by local reggae sensations The Ravers - at Kings Park and at infamous party spot The Dockside. Now that the season is officially in full swing we are ready to gas up the fishing boats, mix another Dark 'n Stormy, and prepare ourselves for the next big event - Folk Fest - at the end of the month. Get excited!