Fourth of July: Things to Do in New York City and The Hamptons

It is almost time to celebrate America’s independence and enjoy the long weekend ahead.  The Fourth of July marks a time to partake in summer festivities including barbecues, beach trips, and of course fireworks. Whether in NYC or the Hamptons we have rounded up some of our favorite ways to celebrate this classic American holiday from firework displays to parties. 

NYC

Whether viewing the fireworks or going to a rooftop party spending the Fourth of July weekend in New York City is never a bad idea. Here are some of our favorite things to do in order to celebrate.

The 5th Annual Freedom Fest at Pier 15

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This annual event is celebrating its 15th year this year. The event features a top DJ, a dinner buffet fully stocked with Fourth of July classics such as burgers and hot dogs, an open bar, and most importantly an excellent view of the fireworks. The event will run from 6:45-11:00pm on July 4th. Tickets are $205 per person.

View the Fireworks from any of the Free Viewing Spots Around the City

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This year Macy’s will be hosting its 43rd annual fireworks display with fireworks launching from the Brooklyn Bridge and barges along the lower east river. The fireworks can be viewed from many locations across NYC including Brooklyn bridge park, and dedicated viewing sections on FDR drive, or any place with unrestricted views of the bridge. The firework display will begin at 9:20pm on July 4th.

Circle Line Fourth of July Cruise

Get an incredible view of the fireworks and the NYC skyline this July 4th on circle line cruises. Cruise down the Hudson river with complimentary beer, wine, and a buffet. Tickets are $229.

The Hamptons

Fourth of July events will be taking place all throughout the week out East in the Hamptons. Here are some of our favorite places to celebrate or view the fireworks.

Southampton Fresh Air Home’s American Picnic

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This Hamptons classic event will be taking place for its 32nd year on Friday July 5th from 7-10pm. Featuring fireworks by Grucci, carnival games, a picnic, dancing, and music this event is perfect for families and and event not to be missed.

Sag Harbor Yacht Club

With one of the best Hamptons fireworks display, pulling in around 20,000 viewers a year the Sag Harbor Yacht Clubs annual John A Ward Independence day fireworks display is back. The event is set to take place at 9:30pm on Saturday July 6th and can be best viewed from the marine park, Sag Harbor Wharf, or Havens beach.

Veuve Clicquot Champagne Pool Party

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Set to take place at the Topping Rose House on July 4th from 1-5pm this pool party is not to be missed. Featuring a DJ, a grill out, and champagne this event is a great way to kick off fourth of July weekend. Tickets are $50 and include two glasses of champagne.  

Where to View 4th of July Fireworks in New York

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