7 Things to Do on the 4th of July in NYC

New York City, in my opinion, is one of the best cities to be for just about any holiday, including the 4th of July (and I’m from Texas, who arguably has the best BBQ that anyone could even dream of eating in honor of this holiday). The Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular will be lighting up the evening skies, but until then, there are plenty of Independence Day activities to take part in. From pub crawls to cruises, the city, as always, has plenty to offer for a wide range of experiences. It doesn’t matter if you want to keep it low key, or go hard for America’s birthday, our 7 Things to Do Fourth of July in NYC guide has you covered.

1.  Festival of Independence

The annual Festival of Independence will take place across three stages in the South Seaport District. This year, all of the music performances are free, with a steady supply of food and local beer nearby. The South Seaport District is also a great (though very packed) spot to catch the fireworks later in the evening. There will also be two historic boats anchored at the Seaport, available to peruse and for those fourth of July photo ops. The Festival of Independence, comparatively, will be one of the more “family friendly” places to be this holiday.

2. Hornblower/ Zeitgeist at Sea

Every New Yorker needs to face the facts about this holiday: It’s going to be crazy. So, in order to avoid the crowds, get out of the bustle, and into one of the most exclusive Fourth of July events the city has to offer. Hornblower Cruises is offering boat/package options to get up close views of the Macy’s Fireworks Spectacular. Though it can be pretty pricey, we think that hopping on a boat and having the rest of the evening taken care of can be extremely rewarding. So, if you’re in the mood to splurge this year, book Hornblower for some of the best seats in view of NYC’s fireworks display.

3. Nathan’s Hotdog Eating Contest

What has been called the most “unique sporting event of all time” is back this year at Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs, a longtime staple of NYC’s Coney Island. Nathan’s Hotdog Eating Contest takes place every Independence Day, and last year, defending champ Joey Chestnut put his 8th winning year, and 61 hotdogs, beneath his belt. Who will take home the prize this year? Spectators are welcome, but if you decide to go, prepare to see people eat like they’ve never eaten before.

4. Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular from Williamsburg

I know most of you don’t want to miss out on watching the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular, arguably one of the best fireworks displays in the country. So in order to avoid the crazy crowds at all of the well-known viewing spots in the city, head east over to Williamsburg. The Gorbals and Berry Park are just two of many bars which offer not quite perfect, yet completely doable views of the display. Not to mention, both bars will be providing food (American BBQ), all afternoon.

5. “Get Summered” @ Riis Park Bazaar

Riis Park Beach Bazaar, newly opened this summer, will be hosting their own 4th of July event that is not only free, but it’s one a beach. Sure, NYC beaches aren’t coined by white sands or palm trees, but Riis Park makes up for it in free live music and NYC’s top food vendors. Not to mention the space provides for a great view of the evening’s fireworks. Spend the 4th at the first ever “Get Summered” event, a proper beach dance party, with DJ’s spinning from noon-9PM.

6. Brooklyn Bowl Grateful Dead Simulcast

Deadheads, we know you’re upset that the Grateful Dead isn’t performing their last three shows ever in NYC, and instead, you’re wishing you’d fulfilled that far-off desire to live in Chicago just so you could be there this weekend. But never fear, several venues are broadcasting the show live, including Brooklyn Bowl. Sure, this event isn’t necessarily “4th of July festive”, but Deadheads know where their priorities lie.

7. Red, White and Brew Pub Crawl

For those of you whose primary agenda for the 4th of July is to drink, drink, and drink some more, NYC is one of the greatest cities to be. PubCrawls will be hosting their annual Red, White, and Brew crawl through Manhattan’s Lower East Side, beginning mid-afternoon, and going up until 2AM. The crawl will begin at Bar None, and for just 10$, participants will be able to enjoy the bar’s drink specials (which are very good), as well as the drink specials along the crawl’s route. Remember, drink plenty of water, pace yourself, and be open to make some new friends along the way!

We hope you have a grand ol’ time celebrating America’s birthday, and if you have any other ideas to ring in the 4th, let us know in the comments below!