Beyond Fireworks: Six Movies That Belong in Your Fourth of July Weekend

The fireworks eventually fade. The burgers are gone. The last margarita has been poured. What better way to wind down an Independence Day weekend than with a great movie?

Whether you're looking for history, adventure, suspense, or pure blockbuster fun, these films capture the spirit of America in surprisingly different ways. Here are six of our favorite Fourth of July weekend picks.

Forrest Gump (1994)

If there were ever a movie that tells the story of America through one person's extraordinary life, it's Forrest Gump.

From football fields to the Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement to shrimp boats in the Gulf, Forrest somehow finds himself at the center of some of the country's defining moments. It's funny, emotional, nostalgic, and endlessly quotable.

Perfect for: A cozy evening after a day of celebrating.

Independence Day (1996)

These were two very cool dudes back in the day.

Sometimes subtlety can wait until Monday.

Aliens attack Earth. Cities explode. Will Smith punches extraterrestrials. The President delivers one of the most iconic speeches in movie history before humanity bands together to save the world (“Today…is our INDEPENDENCE DAY!” I was like 6 years old and cheered in the theater).

It's loud, over-the-top, and somehow still one of the most entertaining Fourth of July traditions nearly three decades later.

Perfect for: Popcorn, friends, and cheering at the TV.

Jaws (1975)

Nothing says summer like heading to the beach... unless there's a giant great white shark waiting offshore.

Steven Spielberg's masterpiece isn't technically about Independence Day, but its setting during a busy Fourth of July holiday on Amity Island makes it one of the season's most fitting watches. It also reminds us that sometimes the biggest holiday crowds come with unexpected complications.

Just maybe skip your ocean swim the next morning.

Perfect for: Anyone who prefers suspense over superheroes.

Hamilton (2020)

I will stan Lin unapologetically, no matter how cringe you all think Hamilton is.

If you're feeling patriotic, few productions tell America's founding story with as much energy and creativity as Hamilton.

The filmed Broadway production combines unforgettable music, razor-sharp writing, and phenomenal performances to bring history to life in a way that feels surprisingly modern. Even if you've never seen the stage show, it's an incredible Fourth of July watch.

Perfect for: History lovers and musical fans alike.

Glory (1989)

Watched this in high school and didn’t fall asleep.

For a more reflective holiday viewing, Glory tells the powerful true story of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry—the first African American regiment raised in the North during the Civil War.

Featuring unforgettable performances from Denzel Washington, Morgan Freeman, Matthew Broderick, and Cary Elwes, it's a moving reminder that the ideals celebrated on Independence Day have often required extraordinary sacrifice to protect and expand.

Perfect for: A thoughtful evening and meaningful conversation.

National Treasure (2004)

This, I haven’t seen yet, but my partner says it is epic.

History, hidden clues, Freemasons, the Declaration of Independence... and Nicholas Cage.

What's not to love?

National Treasure embraces America's myths and mysteries with infectious enthusiasm. It's part treasure hunt, part history lesson, and completely entertaining from beginning to end. Few movies celebrate the country's landmarks and founding documents with quite as much charm.

Perfect for: Family movie night.

Make It a Movie Marathon

Whether you're in the mood for laughs, history, thrills, or blockbuster action, these six films capture different sides of what makes the Fourth of July special.

Before you settle in for movie night, stop by Bar Solita for a round of vacation-inspired cocktails, shareable tapas, or a wood-fired pizza to take home. Great food, great company, and a great movie? That's our kind of holiday tradition.

Happy Fourth of July from all of us at Bar Solita!

Six Movies that Belong in Your 4th of July Weekend