The Best 4th Of July Events In NYC - Time Out

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Photograph: Courtesy of RoofTop at Exchange PlaceThe best 4th of July events in NYC for 2025

Here are the top 4th of July events in NYC for making the most of America’s Independence this year.

Tuesday July 1 2025ShareCopy LinkFacebookTwitterPinterestEmailWhatsAppWritten by Rossilynne Skena CulganThings to Do EditorContributor: Christina IzzoAdvertising

It’s America’s big day and we're here for it. Head to one of Gotham’s best beaches, grab your sunscreen and your sunnies and prepare for some fun in the sun. After gorging on red-white-and-blue treats and drinks, head out for the night to watch the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks or sail around NYC.

RECOMMENDED: Full coverage of the 4th of July in NYC

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Best NYC 4th of July events

1. Don't miss the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks

• Things to do

A beloved New York City tradition since 1976, the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks are back for 2025 with a dazzling show on Friday, July 4.

The show returns to the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River for 2025. Specifically, the show will launch from the iconic Brooklyn Bridge and four barges positioned on the lower East River in the Seaport District.

Here's where to watch.

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2. Hold onto your guts at the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest

• Things to do

Hold on to your guts—Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest is upon us! During the competition—which is now more than 100 years old—Frankfurter-eating legends race the clock and chow down on as many Nathan’s Famous dogs and buns they can swallow in ten minutes.

The race of legends goes down on Independence Day (Friday, July 4), typically from 11am to 1pm. Watch the glorious event at Nathan’s Flagship restaurant (1310 Surf Ave.) on the corner of Stillwell Ave at Coney Island, Brooklyn.

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3. Get close to the action at Front Row Fireworks

Get up close to all the fireworks action at Downtown Skyport’s Front Row Fireworks Party. Located at 6 East River Piers, this family-friendly event will feature live DJ performances and fun activities for all ages. Expect unobstructed waterfront views of the East River's dazzling display.

Doors open at 7pm, and the event runs until 10:30pm after the fireworks end. Tickets start at $50, with food and drinks available for purchase.

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4. Head to the Seaport for Red, White & Views

The Seaport is going to have spectacular views of the fireworks this year, and that's why the South Street Seaport Museum is hosting Red, White & Views on Friday, July 4, 2025. It's billed as a festive, backyard-style Independence Day celebration for all ages.

Access to Pier 16 along the East River begins at 6:30pm. Registration is required, and early-bird tickets start at $75.

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5. Industry Kitchen's July 4 fireworks show

Located along the East River in the Seaport, Industry Kitchen is hosting a festive Fourth of July celebration with panoramic views of the Macy’s Fireworks Show, a live DJ, July 4th swag, themed décor, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

Tickets start at $163 for general admission, which gets you access to standing-room viewing platforms, a premium open bar until 9:30pm, a and buffet dinner from 7-9:30pm.

Or, there's a VIP Reserved Table option for $330–$660 for up to 6 guests. Entry begins at 6:30pm with express VIP check-in and communal reserved seating in a prime viewing area. Tickets includes table service, open bar, and buffet access until 9:30pm, plus festive décor and party swag.

Tickets can be found here.

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6. Head to the beach

• Things to do

New York City beaches are now open for swimming and sunbathing. A visit to one—if not all—of the best beaches NYC has to offer is needed when temperatures become hot and sticky.

Whether you’re planning weekend getaways, a camping trip or just looking for ways to cool off or with friends, these beaches in New York are a quick subway, ferry or bus trip away. If you have a car and want to venture further out, we’ve also included off-the-beaten-track sandy shores that are less than two hours away.

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7. Catch some thrills at an amusement park

• Attractions
• Arcades and amusements
• price 1 of 4

Acting like a kid again is never a bad idea, and these amusement parks near NYC are the perfect places to get your adrenaline pumping.

Good ol’ Coney Island is right in your backyard with one of our fave Ferris wheels and the famous Cyclone wooden roller coaster, but it’s also worth venturing to New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut for a fun day out.

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NYC's best rooftop bars

The 29 best rooftop bars in NYC

Raise a glass to spectacular views and elevated libations at the city's best rooftop bars.

Read more

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