Nothing marks the Fourth of July quite like fireworks do, and in New York City there are a host of places to watch the red, white and blue sparks fly. This year’s big news is that the annual Macy’s display, which started back in 1976, returns to the Hudson River on the west side of Manhattan for the first time in over a decade. That extravaganza remains the largest in the nation, but other local shows draw spectators to Coney Island and Staten Island. Check out our guide on how to get the best views of Independence Day fireworks throughout the City. No matter which event or spot you choose, be sure to check the scheduled time for the display and arrive early.
Hudson River. Photo: Related & Oxford
Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks
Macy’s holds the title for the nation’s largest fireworks display. This year the perennially inspiring show returns to the Hudson River, where viewers will be awed by thousands of shells and effects. As of press time, official viewing locations are still to be announced, but expect the retailer to name multiple points on the west side of Manhattan between 14th and 34th Streets, as well as in New Jersey. All locations are free to enter, but arrive early to ensure you get a spot. For the most up-to-date info, visit macys.com.
Coney Island. Photo: Brittany Petronella
Fourth of July in Coney Island
You might find more entertainment at this Fourth of July celebrationin Brooklyn than anywhere else in the City. While the fireworks are the main event, you can make a full day of it: lay out on the beach, take a spin on Luna Park’s rides and check out special events like the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest (if you want to come earlier in the long weekend, you can attend a Cyclones baseball game July 1–July 3; the final tilt in that set includes postgame fireworks). Then claim some space on Coney Island’s beach or its 2.5-mile-long boardwalk to watch the nighttime pyrotechnics, which take place at 9pm and launch just off Coney Island Beach.
Historic Richmond Town. Photo: David La Spina
Independence Day Weekend in Staten Island
Staten Island’s Historic Richmond Town hosts special programming and events on the big day, including demonstrations by costumed interpreters. They’ll be teaching about the science behind fireworks and showing how 19th-century pyrotechnics worked. At noon on July 4, the neighborhood of Travis will host a parade at Independence Park; Empire Outlets, near the St. George Ferry Terminal, will have a block party featuring face painting, music, snacks and a photo booth from 3pm to 10pm, with a fireworks display around 9pm.
