We are all gearing up to celebrate America's birthday on July 4th and enjoy the holiday weekend. Some things synonymous with the American holiday are BBQs, picnics, beach trips, and, of course, Fireworks. If you are in the city for the celebration, there will be a great fireworks display, and if you find yourself on the east end, there will be various events and fireworks displays throughout the weekend.
New York City Fireworks
In New York, the Macy's 4th of July fireworks on the East River will be taking place again this year, with 2016 marking the 40th show by Macy's. With such a milestone, perhaps this year will be an extra-special display. The show consists of barges between 23rd and 42nd streets as well as south of the Brooklyn Bridge in the East River and begins around 9:25pm.
Expect any recommended viewing area to be crowded, especially the "official" viewing spots as declared by the city. Below are some official spots as well as restaurants and rooftops that offer great views with added fun.
South Street Seaport:
The official viewing spot for South Street Seaport is at Peck Slip. The seaport will be having family-fun games and activities taking place before the fireworks begin. There will be bands playing at the Seaport on both July 3rd and 4th.
FDR Drive:
The city will be closing the FDR drive at certain locations along the east side that will be ideal viewing. The elevated portions of the drive will offer the best vantage points, and access to these will open around 7pm. You can enter at multiple points along the FDR with access-points at Houston, 23rd, 34th, and 42nd being ideal.
One World Observatory:
The observatory at One World Trade Center will be hosting a viewing party from 8-10pm. The event will feature and open bar and "all American" hors d'oeuvres. With One WTC being the tallest building in the city, expect great views of the fireworks.
Tickets : $250 or $325 for a VIP package
Industry Kitchen:
Located along the east river promenade, Industry Kitchen is a great setting for views close to the Brooklyn Bridge. The restaurant is hosting a party with tickets starting at $175 for bar seating and $238 for table seating. The tickets include an open bar and buffet.
70 South Street
Mr. Purple:
If you are looking for a trendy setting to celebrate America's birthday, consider the rooftop of the Hotel Indigo on the Lower East Side known as Mr. Purple. The rooftop bar and lounge complete with a pool offers great views of the city. The venue gets crowded on a normal summer evening so expect it to be full. General admission tickets are still available for $50 with VIP passes available as well.
180 Orchard Street
Hamptons Fireworks
Events will be taking place throughout the holiday weekend out East with fireworks displays being put on almost each day across the Hamptons. Some of our favorites our below.
Southampton Fresh Air Home's American Picnic:
In its 29th year, the annual picnic will take place on July 1st from 7-10pm and benefits the Southampton Fresh Air Home. The event has fun games for children to enjoy as well as food carts with quintessential American treats such as popcorn, ice cream, and hot dogs. The fireworks will be put on by Grucci.
1030 Meadow Lane, Southampton
Sag Harbor Yacht Club:
If you have a boat, this will be your ideal spot to enjoy some 4th of July fireworks from the water as you dock in Sag Harbor. If you are staying on land, there are great spots for viewing including Marine Park, Haven's Beach, and Sag Harbor Wharf. The fireworks display will take place July 2nd at 9:30pm.
27 Bay Street, Sag Harbor
Montauk:
The fireworks in Montauk, sponsored by the Montauk Chambers of Commerce, will take place on July 4th itself. Like the display in Southampton, they will also be put on by Grucci. The show will officially occur over Umbrella beach, but will be viewable from many spots in the area. Consider getting there quite early to secure parking.
Montauk