America’s 250th birthday will be celebrated in style, as only New York knows how, with a wide variety of incredible 4th of July events across all five boroughs in the coming days.
Here are some events you can add to your calendar to celebrate this milestone.
Macy’s 50th 4th of July Fireworks
Multiple observation points
8 p.m.
It wouldn’t be Independence Day in NYC without Macy’s fireworks! Celebrating both the show’s 50th anniversary and America’s 250th anniversary, the show promises to be bigger than ever, expanding to the lower East River in the Seaport District, the lower Hudson River in partnership with Jersey City, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
The walk-in viewing areas will be along FDR Drive between The Battery and the Brooklyn Bridge, along the East River. New York City is also distributing 100,000 free tickets to see the show from Brooklyn Bridge Park and South Street Seaport; You can win tickets by participating in a raffle that will close at 11:59 pm on June 29. There will also be multiple viewing points along the Hudson River in Jersey City.
The Brooklyn Bridge will feature both pyrotechnics and a laser light show, both of which will be tested on the nights of July 2 and 3.
You can also watch the show from home on NBC and Peacock.
Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest
Coney Island, Brooklyn
Details to be confirmed
The annual Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest is a classic Brooklyn event celebrated on the 4th of July. The traditional competition takes place near Nathan’s flagship restaurant on the corner of Surf and Stillwell Avenues in Coney Island, where competitors face off to see who can eat the most hot dogs and buns in the shortest time. If you want to see it in person, you’ll have to arrive early to get a good spot.
Yankees home game
Yankee Stadium, 1 E 161st St, Bronx
1:35 p.m.
Variable ticket prices
For Yankees fans, there will be a home game that will put you in the festive mood. The first 18,000 attendees will receive a special Yankees Fourth of July hat, in red, white and blue, with the team’s classic logo and the number 250 embroidered on the side.
4th of July After Party – Silent Disco
Bohemian Beer Garden, 29-19 24th Ave., Queens
9 pm – 1 am
Tickets from $25.16
Calling all silent disco fans! If you’re looking for a relaxed way to keep the party going after the fireworks, head to the Bohemian Beer Garden. Three live DJs will play different styles of music on headphones to keep you dancing all night. Only over 21 years old.
THE BBQ: The hottest 4th of July cookout experience in NYC
740 5th Ave., Brooklyn
4 – 11 pm
Free before 6 pm, $20 after
Looking for good food and good vibes? THE BBQ organizes a cookout that you can’t miss. Admission includes food all night long, sponsored by Bareburger, plus live music.
116th Travis 4th of July Parade
Victory Blvd. and Glen Street, Staten Island
11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Free
The annual Travis Fourth of July Parade on Staten Island returns this year, led by Grand Marshal and Minority Leader David M. Carr of Council District 50. There will be a ceremony at Independence Park at 12 pm honoring dignitaries and special guests.
Red, White and Blue 4th of July Rooftop Party in NYC
Elsie Rooftop, 1412 Broadway, Manhattan
4 – 11 pm
Tickets from $17.75
Rooftop season continues and Elsie Rooftop is ready to celebrate this 4th of July. Enjoy cocktails, music and stunning views of the skyline, with the chance to see the fireworks. Only over 21 years old.
