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A beloved New York City tradition since 1976, the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks are back for 2026 with a dazzling show. It's one of the best events to celebrate the 4th of July in NYC.
What time is the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks show?
On Friday, July 4 at 8pm.
Where are the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks?
The Macy's July 4 Fireworks Show returns to the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River for 2026. Specifically, the show will launch from the iconic Brooklyn Bridge and four barges positioned on the lower East River in the Seaport District.
What is the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks show?
Every year, the spectacular show launches 80,000 shells off of barges in the river. The extravaganza typically lasts 25 minutes and features numerous effects in 30 colors and shapes.
What are the best places to watch the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks?
As for viewing locations, any anywhere with an unobstructed view of the sky above the lower East River should do the trick. Macy's says that prime public viewing will be available along elevated portions of the FDR Drive with the following access points managed by NYPD:
- Montgomery Street at Madison Street
- Robert F. Wagner Sr. Place and Brooklyn Bridge off/on ramps
- Broad Street at Water Street.
- ADA viewing will be available at the Murry Bergtraum Softball Field with access at Pike Slip and Cherry Street.
Just a heads up that those viewing points will get very busy, and you'll want to show up early. As crowds build at these areas, some of these locations will be closed, and spectators will be redirected to additional open access points.
If you're willing to shell out some cash, you can head to one of the many excellent parties with fireworks views at Time Out Market, the Empire State Building, the Edge, One World Observatory, and more. While these parties will cost you some coin, if you've ever tried to elbow your way through the public viewing areas, you know it's worth the expense.
Where should I not watch the fireworks?
The following NYC locations are not recommended for viewing, per Macy's:
- Areas of the FDR in Midtown
- The Battery
- Battery Park City
- East River Park
- Hunter’s Point South Waterfront Park
- Roosevelt Island
- Governors Island
- Gantry Plaza State Park
Can I watch the fireworks on TV?
Though it's incredible to see the show in person, the display is also broadcast across the country on NBC and Peacock starting at 8pm and culminating at 10pm. An encore presentation of the show will also air at 10pm on NBC.
Who will perform at the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks?
Before the fireworks light up the sky, a star-studded line up will take the stage on The Rooftop at Pier 17. Audiences can tune in to see performances by Noah Kahan, Post Malone, Salt-N-Pepa, Bebe Rexha, Shaboozy and Black Shelton. Terry Crews will host and The Voice season 29 winner Alexia Jayy will also perform with composer Jason Howland, who scored the musical accompaniment to this year’s fireworks display.
Just a heads up that you can't see the performances in-person; only on TV.
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