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No plans for the Fourth? Don't sweat it. We're giving you 12 terrific reasons why you should absolutely stay in NYC to celebrate America's birthday. From awesome 4th of July events, to cool places to watch the fireworks and ridiculously fun 4th of July parties, we're certain this Independence day is going to be the best one yet.
RECOMMENDED: Full guide to 4th of July in NYC
The Dutch Fourth of July Luau
Get a savory taste of our 50th state—that’s Hawaii, duh—at Soho foodie favorite the Dutch during its annual Fourth of July luau. Enjoy games like minigolf and cornhole while sipping mai tai cocktails. The main event is definitely the menu, which features smoked brisket egg rolls, Kalua pig and tune poke. 131 Sullivan St (thedutchnyc.com). Tue 4 11am–9pm; free entry.
4th of July Fireworks at The William Vale
Williamsburg spot William Vale is hosting a firework-watching party at its river-facing green space, which offers unbelievable views of the Macy’s spectacular. Tickets are only $17.76, and gets you access to the park. Order a burger, fires and dairy dips from Mister Dips and you’ll truly feel the America vibes. The William Vale (thewilliamvale.com), 111 North 12th St. Tue 4 7–11pm; $17.76.
July 4th Party at LIC Flea
This open-air bazaar in Queens normally hawks its wide array of retro wares and antiques as well as finger-licking–delicious eats on the weekend, but in honor of Independence Day, the flea invites you to come out and party on Tuesday, July 4. Partake in some day-drinking at the all-Queens Beer and Wine Garden, serving brews from spots like SingleCut Beersmiths and Queens Brewery. (The suds come in handy when you need to wash down Butcher Bar’s wood-smoked BBQ.) Best of all, you’ll have a killer view of the Macy's firework display!
Urban Fitness League: UFL World Cup
Coney Island is hands-down one of the best places to spend Independence day. Watch the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, play carnival games and get a tan on the beach before watching the fireworks on the boardwalk. When you can no longer beat the heat, head indoors to watch the world’s best calisthenics athletes battle it out. The event, hosted by the ever-dreamy Mario Lopez, includes musical performances by rappers Dave East, A Boogie, Julez Santana and more. Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk, Brooklyn (uflpro.com). Tue 4 at 6pm; tickets start at $10.
Star Spangled Banger at Coney Island Brewery
After watching in wonder (and disgust) at Juan “More Bite” Rodriguez going head-to-head with World Champion Joey Chestnut at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, check out the official after-party at Coney Island Brewery. The fun folks are serving grub like American Patty Melts, Apple Pie Empanadas, Red, White and Blue Rocket Pops and beer—duh. 1904 Surf Ave, Brooklyn (coneyislandbeer.com). Tue 4 at 2pm; free entry.
Doggy Talen Show at Q.E.D.
Sure, consuming several hot dogs on the Fourth of July is a popular tradition, but this year, shake things up by watching real-life pups show off their hot talent. Zelda, Sweat Pea, Gracie and Bananas will wow you with their impressive tricks in exchange for treats and appaws. 27-16 23rd Ave (qedastoria.com). Tue 4 at 2pm; free.
July 4th Free Afterparty
There ain’t no party like a (FREE) House of Yes afterparty. Dance all the BBQ and beer calories away at the nightlife venue’s Summer of Love bash at the park, then head to the Bushwick warehouse to shake your rump some more. House of Yes, 2 Wyckoff Avenue (houseofyes.org). Tue 4 at 9pm; free.
July 4th BBQ at Midnights Head to Midnights—a hip restaurant and bar with a magical outdoor garden in Williamsburg—on Independence Day for a day-long rager with games, cocktails, burgers, crab rolls and housemade Jello shots (yum!). You’ll also get a pretty decent view of this year’s fireworks. 149 N 6th St (midnightsbk.com). Tue 4 1–midnight; free entry.
4th of July Open Bar & BBQ Party at The DL
Get turnt before the fireworks go boom at The DL. The rooftop bar is offering a three-hour open bar including as much BBQ as you can stomach in the form of burgers, hot dogs and sliders for the beautiful price of $69. What a steal! 95 Delancey St (thedl-nyc.com). Tue 4 2–5pm; $69.
Zum Kaboom 4th of July Party at the East River
Zum Schneider is hosting a Fourth of July extravaganza equipped with live rock and blues music, picnic fare such as hot dogs, brats and potato salad and more. The spot is located right on the East River bank near 23rd Street and FDR Drive, so your view of the fireworks should be grand. 24-20 FDR Drive Service Rd (zumschneider.com). Tue 4 3–10pm; $25.
4th of July Celebration at One World Observatory
Celebrate Independence Day in a way you’ll never forget at one of the top New York attractions—One world Observatory. The evening affair includes a two-hour open bar, grub such as hot dogs and soft pretzels and a killer view of the fireworks from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. 285 Fulton St (oneworldobservatory.com). Tue 4 8–10pm; $250.
4th of July at 1 Rooftop Brooklyn Bridge
Show off your red, white and blue atop 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge’s beautiful rooftop bar serving great food and cocktails. The price of a ticket ($150)—like One World Observatory—is nothing to sneeze at, but the price includes a one-hour open bar! 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, 60 Furman St (1hotels.com). Tue 4 4pm–2am; $150.