How to Celebrate the FOURTH OF JULY in NYC
The Fourth of July is a huge holiday in the United States, as it commemorates the signing of our Declaration of Independence. The Fourth of July 2025 will be especially meaningful as it will ring in our 250th Anniversary, also known at the Semiquincentennial, a tongue-twister of a title for this momentous event. 2025’s Fourth of July celebrations will be phenomenal. Here is where and how to celebrate.
Where will the 2025 NYC Fourth of July Firework be?
The 2025 Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks will be held on the East River. While exact viewing areas have yet to be announced by Macy’s, the Macy’s website does specify that performances and electrifying effects will be centering on the Brooklyn Bridge. This means the viewing will likely be from Brooklyn Bridge Park and the South Street Seaport, facing the Brooklyn Bridge.
That being said, getting a good viewing spot won’t be easy. Most areas are ticketed or first come first serve, with people arriving very early. As a result, many folks prefer to book far in advance. Here are some ideas to ensure you have a most marvelous Fourth of July in New York City.
Watch the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks from a Boat
One of the best ways to watch the Macy’s Annual 4th of July fireworks is on a boat. A boat on the East River will ensure you have a front row seat to the 2025 pyrotechnics. Almost every boat in New York Harbour will be offering Fourth of July firework viewing, but tickets do sell out fast, so book early.
Want a family-friend Fourth of July river cruise? Check out the Lucille Yacht. This cruise will offer an indulgent and delightful evening filled with entertainment and a buffet dinner. You will enjoy a scenic river cruise and then watch fireworks from the comfort of your boat.
Want to dance this Fourth of July? Check out the Cornucopia Majesty Yacht departing from Pier 81. You will dance, dine, and drink the night away!
Visit an Observation Deck
A favorite Macy’s 4th of July fireworks viewing area is New York City’s observation decks. Edge will allow you to take photos and videos of the fireworks with the Empire State Building in the frame, which is stunning. Summit One Vanderbilt, Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, and One World Observatory will also have festive events with stunning panoramic views of the Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks!
South Street Seaport
Often when the Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks are held on the East River, the television camera crews station themselves at the South Street Seaport. That’s because it arguably has the best views. You can join the Seaport’s viewing parties. The South Street Seaport Museum is hosting a Red, White & Views events. Registration is required and tickets start at $75 per person.
Front Row from the Downtown Skyport
Want front row seats to the Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks? frontrowfireworks.com is hosting an event at the Downtown Heliport. There will be a DJ and fun activities for all ages, and of course unobstructed views of the waterfront and fireworks. Tickets start at $50 and all ages are welcome.
Appear on a Times Square Billboard
To truly show off your patriotism, appear on a Times Square billboard! Thanks to Welcome to Times Square, you can put a photo or video of your choice on a TImes Square billboard for as low as $150 a day! Surprise your family with their photos on a billboard then celebrate with the Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks!