NYC is giving away 100,000 free tickets for Macy's July 4th fireworks show—here's how to get one

New Yorkers, get ready to ooh and aah—this year’s Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks show is about to be more accessible than ever. Mayor Eric Adams announced Monday that the city is giving away 100,000 free tickets to prime viewing spots along the East River, offering residents front-row access to the most iconic pyrotechnic display in the country.

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The free tickets—10 times the number offered last year—will grant access to two key viewing locations: Brooklyn Bridge Park and the South Street Seaport’s Pier 16 and Pier 17. They’ll be available starting today, on a first-come, first-served basis. Each person can request up to four tickets for Brooklyn or two for Manhattan. Adams called the giveaway part of his administration’s effort to make the celebration inclusive, especially as the city marks its 400th anniversary this year and gears up for the nation’s 250th next year.

If you’re eager to lock down your spot early, there’s a shortcut: text “FIREWORKS” to 917-909-2288. The first 2,500 texters will receive four tickets each to Brooklyn Bridge Park ahead of the general release.

This is the second year the city has offered free tickets to the show, a move spurred by past criticism that major sections of the East River waterfront were blocked off for private events or law enforcement insiders, leaving everyday New Yorkers stuck behind barricades. This time, the city says it’s making good on its promise to open up the experience.

Guests with tickets will need to arrive between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. for entry—latecomers will be turned away. And be warned: This is no picnic. Blankets, chairs, coolers, backpacks and large bags are all prohibited.

For those who don’t snag tickets, there’s still a chance to catch the show. The elevated FDR Drive will serve as a non-ticketed public viewing area with entry points at Montgomery and Madison streets, Wagner Place and the Brooklyn Bridge ramp, and Broad and Water streets. An ADA-accessible viewing area will be available at Murry Bergtraum Field, accessible via Pike and Cherry.

The fireworks begin at 9:25 p.m., launching from barges along the East River near the Brooklyn Bridge. With more than 80,000 shells in 30 colors and even projection mapping across the bridge itself, it promises to be one of the most dazzling nights of the year.