4th of July Fireworks in NYC 2024
The Best Places to See the 4th of July Fireworks in NYC
The July 4th fireworks show in NYC is the largest Independence Day celebration in the country and one of the greatest events of the year in New York.
The location of Macy’s 4th of July fireworks 2024 in NYC will be on the East River, again!
In 2024 Macy’s famous 4th of July fireworks will take place for the 48th time! More than 60,000 shells and effects will be launched to fascinate the audience.
Where will the firework be set off?
- East River, between 26th and 40th Street
When will the fireworks start?
- 9:25 PM
Where To See the 4th of July Fireworks in NYC
Looking for the best places to see the 4th of July Fireworks in NYC this year? Read on for a full breakdown of the streets, parks, and cruises to watch fireworks in New York City.
The list below is compiled of the tried-and-true fireworks viewing spots in New York City from the past few years. For everyone who’s planning their trip now and wanting to know the best places to see 4th of July Fireworks in NYC, the list below will give you a start on where to see 4th of July fireworks NYC.
As we get more information on official events, we will be updating these lists to make sure your trip to NYC for 4th of July is as enjoyable as possible.
Fun Facts about Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks
- 50 pyrotechnicians are in charge
- almost 1,920 shells per minute
- at 25 minutes this corresponds to 48,000 shells
- there will be 17 different firework patterns
- 14 different effects
Common Places To See 4th of July Events NYC
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01
Macy’s 4th Of July Fireworks
Other Events in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
One of the most important Independence Day celebrations in the US, the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks show is a must-see when visiting New York.
Just after 9pm on 4th of July, the skies light up over NYC’s East River. This coordinated fireworks display consists of more than 60,000 shells launched from barges floating in the river. This celebration includes music and a display of red, clear, and blue water shot 300 feet into the air by the New York Fire Department.
Make sure to grab your spot before 9pm in one of the three official elevated viewing spots along FDR Drive for the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks: East 42nd Street, 34th Street and 23rd Street.
The best places to see this year’s fireworks on the East River:
- Brooklyn Bridge Park (Pier 1-6)
- The Dumbo Waterfront
- Domino Park
- Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City
- Roosevelt Island
- East River Park (Lower Manhattan)
- East River State Park (Williamsburg)
- along the closed FDR Drive
Click here to see the schedule of events at Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks official site.
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02
Coney Island Fireworks
Other Events in Coney Island & Brighton Beach
After enjoying some of Coney Island’s most famous 4th of July activities, like Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, you can stick around and enjoy one of the best places to see 4th of July fireworks in NYC. The evening party begins around 9pm, with fireworks kicking off around 9:30pm and lasts about fifteen minutes.
While not as epic in size or scale as the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks, Coney Island has charms all of its own for a 4th of July you’re sure to appreciate.
The Best Places to See the 4th of July Fireworks in NYC
Note: The official viewing locations for 2023 will be announced soon!
If you’re planning to go to an official viewing area, note that, typically, backpacks are permitted but coolers, lounge chairs, blankets, and umbrellas are not.
Should you not be able to be in the city to see the fireworks, then be sure to turn on NBC at 8 pm to see the live broadcasting.
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01
FDR Drive at East 23rd Street, East 34th Street, and East 42nd Street Fireworks Viewing
Building in Midtown Manhattan
We’ll start with the official recommendations that Macy’s 4th of July fireworks show has shared over the past few years. In addition to the elevated platforms you can enjoy for free (just be sure to arrive early), these are great areas to set up and take in the East River fireworks display.
Since they are popular spots for both New Yorkers and those visiting New York alike, there are sure to be crowds. Our advice? Only bring the essentials and try to get there as early as your schedule allows.
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02
Enjoy the 4th of July Fireworks at Gantry Plaza State Park
Park in Long Island CityOur Highlight
Gantry Plaza State Park is a beautiful escape right on the East River in Long Island City. The park is very beautifully laid out, with many wooden benches (also with ergonomic design) and dunes with sand and a small green space. There are apartments and small restaurants and cafes lined up on the back of the park. The piers also add a nice touch to the park as well. It’s the perfect place to take a stroll while enjoying the Manhattan skyline across the river. Also in sight is the beautiful 59th street bridge that connects Manhattan and Queens.
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03
4th of July in the Vineyard!
Other Attraction in DumboOur Highlight
Located in Brooklyn, Rooftop Reds is actually the world’s first commercially viable urban rooftop vineyard. That means in addition to getting a wide-open view of the NYC skyline, you’re also supporting one of the most innovative wine projects in NYC.
This place is also amazing on July 4th – click here to reserve your tickets.
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04
Domino Park Brooklyn Fireworks Viewing
Park in Williamsburg
Sometimes the best place to see the 4th of July fireworks in NYC is the place you’ll enjoy the most. One of our favorite places is the 6-acre Domino Park in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood.
Especially if you happen to be sightseeing in that part of the city, this open park on the Brooklyn side is a great place to wrap up your day and take in the fireworks show. With its large lawns and ideal location facing the NYC skyline, you’re sure to enjoy the spectacle.
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05
Flushing Meadows Corona Park Queens Waterfront Fireworks Viewing
Park in Flushing
The beauty of having a wide open park like the one at Flushing Meadows is how much space there is, especially for those with young kids who want to play.
From Independence Day festivities to the fireworks, it’s all made more enjoyable when you can spread out with your friends and stay a while.
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06
View the 2023 NYC 4th Of July Fireworks On The Water
Cruise in ChelseaOur Highlight
Instead of getting ready to view the fireworks with the crowds and lining up early, why not reserve your spot on a fireworks cruise?
This is a great chance to spend time with the family and get a unique view of the NYC skyline as it gets let up by Independence Day fireworks. Plus, you’ll enjoy live DJ music, food, and drinks to celebrate America’s birthday.
Many 4th of July fireworks cruise board between 5:30pm to 6:30pm, giving you a three-and-a-half hour experience around the city and putting you in prime position to catch the fireworks just after 9pm.
My tip: Here you find the best 4th of July cruises in NYC.
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07
East River State Park Brooklyn Waterfront Fireworks Viewing
Park in Lower East Side
Given its spacious lawn positioned with a view of the river, the East River State Park is one of our favorite spots to sit back and enjoy the NYC fireworks.
A great spot for families, you’ll want to bring a picnic and a blanket so you can make the most of the warm New York summer evening.
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08
South Street Seaport, Manhattan Waterfront Fireworks Viewing
Building in Financial District
Another spot with a view that’s tough to beat, the South Street Seaport in Manhattan is conveniently located where the firework barges are generally positioned.
Imagine the scene: not only are you in one of the best places to see the 4th of July fireworks in NYC with them taking off in front of you, but you also have a background complete with historic ships and the picturesque Brooklyn Bridge.
As is the case with the more popular spots, you’ll want to arrive early to the area. The elevated viewing spots can be accessed via Broad Street, Pearl Street, and Frankfort Street.
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09
Brooklyn Bridge Park And Promenade Fireworks Viewing
Park in Dumbo
The next-best thing to being on the Brooklyn Bridge to watch the fireworks? Brooklyn Bridge Park and Promenade. With its placement right on the East River, this waterfront park shares incredible views of Manhattan.
For those of you looking for an iconic New York City skyline photo framed by fireworks, this could just be the best spot. In particular, the intersection of Water Street & Washington Street will give you the just-right angle of the Empire State Building and the Manhattan Bridge.
Unfortunately, the Brooklyn Bridge Park is no hidden secret, so it tends to get crowded. If you’re planning on staking out your spot, you’ll want to arrive early.
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10
DUMBO Brooklyn Fireworks Viewing
Districts in Dumbo
For a more industrial setting for your 4th of July NYC fireworks viewing, try the hip DUMBO (which stands for Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass). Despite having plenty of shops and restaurants, this spot tends to be less crowded for fireworks.
While that’s partially because the view can be a little blocked by buildings, it’s also lesser-known by tourists. So if you’re looking for a more low-key way to celebrate and you don’t mind not having the perfect Instagram photo, this could be a great option for you to catch the show.
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11
FDR Park On Roosevelt Island Fireworks Viewing
Other Attraction in Midtown Manhattan
Similar to DUMBO, the FDR Park – a park on the southern part of Roosevelt Island – is a delightfully uncrowded option for taking in the fireworks on the 4th of July.
Thanks to a wide open green area, you can actually stretch out and stay a while. With a show like the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks, it’ll be worth the wait.
Frequently Asked Questions About 4th of July in New York
Can I see the Manhattan fireworks from New Jersey?
Not really, no. Though there have been years in the past that the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks have been launched from the Hudson River (the river between New Jersey and Manhattan), they are now primarily launched from the East River.
It might be possible to catch a glimpse or reflection from New Jersey, but if your goal is to see the big show, you’ll want to head into the city.
Is it possible to see Macy’s 4th of July fireworks from Brooklyn?
Yes, absolutely. Because the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks are launched from barges in the East River (the river that separates Manhattan and Brooklyn), there are plenty of great parks and places in Brooklyn to view the 4th of July fireworks.
Can I watch the NYC 4th of July fireworks from the Brooklyn Bridge?
No. As ideal as it would be, it is not allowed. As in past years, city officials remind New York residents and visitors that the Brooklyn Bridge is not a place to view Macy’s fireworks show.
Are restaurants and shops open on the 4th of July NYC?
Tuesday, 4th of July 2023 in the United States is a national holiday. This means that federal buildings, like the post office, and banks will be closed. With private businesses, whether they are open or not is up to them.
Given that 4th of July 2023 falls on a Tuesday, there’s a good chance restaurants and shops will be open as usual throughout the weekend. On 4th of July, though, they may have modified hours. Be sure to check their social media for announcements or call in advance to confirm their business hours.
Do I need tickets for the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks?
Fortunately, the annual Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Show is free. Macy’s does offer a number of official elevated viewing areas for the event that require showing up early, but there’s no need to pay for entrance.
Which side of Manhattan does the Macy’s 4th of July show take place?
Continuing a recent trend, the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks show will take place on the East River between Manhattan and Brooklyn.
It does have a history on the Hudson River between New Jersey and Manhattan (it’s where the show debuted in 1958), but the East River has since become the home of the annual NYC 4th of July fireworks celebration.
When do the July 4th fireworks start?
The fireworks show typically starts around 9:20 pm. In 2023 the fireworks will start at 9:25 pm. However you should make sure to be there early because the viewing locations will be crowded!
How long are the 4th of July fireworks in NYC?
The fireworks typically last for about 25 minutes and are over by 10 pm.
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