This year’s Fourth of July is no ordinary Independence Day celebration. It marks the nation’s 250th anniversary, which means we’re in for some particularly spectacular fireworks displays. With fireworks on both the Hudson and East rivers this year, Lower Manhattan is lucky to be in the heart of all the action; here’s what you need to know about where (and how) to catch the show in the neighborhood.
The Seaport
The Seaport will get incredible views of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Show, which is coincidentally celebrating its 50th anniversary. The show promises to be the largest in the nation, with more than 30 colors of fireworks that can reach 1,000 feet in height in more than 240 different configurations; all including 20,000 special effects. The lights and booms are set to start at 9:25 p.m. and last about half an hour.
The Seaport is offering a number of ticketed options for prime viewing area access. Unfortunately, if you were hoping to hop on a historic ship for the fireworks, both the Wavertree and Schooner Pioneer are completely booked. But if you’re happy to stay on land, you can purchase a spot at Pier 16 for amazing East River and Brooklyn Bridge views, with grub from Cobble Fish available for purchase. Three ticket tiers will offer different vantage points of the fireworks. Find all pricing and booking information here.
There are also a number of bars and restaurants in the area hosting dinner watch parties with a special event ticket, including Carne Mare, Peck Slip Social and Sadie’s. Note that some establishments, such as Willett’s, are already completely booked, so be sure to reserve a spot quickly.
Battery Park City
For the first time in 11 years, there will also be a summer’s fireworks display on the Hudson River courtesy of Jersey City, making Battery Park City an ideal spot to post up. Many areas with stunning waterfront views are free and open to the public, including Wagner Park, Rockefeller Park and North Esplanade. The show starts at 9:30 p.m., though you should plan on going early to snag a spot and buy food and drinks. For more detailed information on local transit and street closures, visit the Battery Park City Authority’s website.
Bonus
You might be aware that the famous Times Square ball will be dropping eight times to mark the beginning of the Fourth of July in all eight unique American time zones. If you really want to have the most exciting Independence Day celebration possible, you can head to the Fraunces Tavern Museum to watch these momentous drops as part of a special Museum After Dark Event on July 3. The museum will start broadcasting the Times Square ball drops from 6 p.m. until midnight. As an added bonus, museum admission will be only $1.
Plus, you also get the opportunity to ring in Independence Day in the oldest and arguably most historically significant building in Manhattan; it is, after all, where George Washington gave his famous farewell address to his troops, marking a poignant moment in the birth of the United States. RSVPs to the event are recommended and can be made here, but tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
photo: iStock
