Red fireworks with the NYC skyline.
Photograph: Courtesy of RoofTop at Exchange Place
Photograph: Courtesy of RoofTop at Exchange Place

The best 4th of July events in NYC for 2024

Here are the top 4th of July events in NYC for making the most of America’s Independence this year.

Rossilynne Skena Culgan
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It’s America’s big day and we're here for it. Head to one of Gotham’s best beaches, grab your sunscreen and your sunnies and prepare for some fun in the sun. After gorging on red-white-and-blue treats and drinks, head out for the night to watch the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks or sail around NYC.

RECOMMENDED: Full coverage of the 4th of July in NYC

Best NYC 4th of July events

  • Things to do

A beloved New York City tradition since 1976, the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks are back for 2024 with a dazzling show on Thursday, July 4, beginning at 8pm.

After a long stint on the East River, this year's fireworks show will be launched from the Hudson River side of Manhattan. Good news for West Siders.

Fireworks will launch from barges positioned along the Hudson River with multiple viewing opportunities in Manhattan and New Jersey; here's where to watch.

  • Things to do

Hold on to your guts—Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest 2024 is upon us! During the competition—which is now more than 100 years old—Frankfurter-eating legends race the clock and chow down on as many Nathan’s Famous dogs and buns they can swallow in ten minutes.

The race of legends goes down on Independence Day (Thursday, July 4) from 11am to 1pm. Watch the glorious event at Nathan’s Flagship restaurant (1310 Surf Ave.) on the corner of Stillwell Ave at Coney Island, Brooklyn.

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  • Things to do

New York City beaches are now open for swimming and sunbathing. A visit to one—if not all—of the best beaches NYC has to offer is needed when temperatures become hot and sticky.

Whether you’re planning weekend getaways, a camping trip or just looking for ways to cool off or with friends, these beaches in New York are a quick subway, ferry or bus trip away. If you have a car and want to venture further out, we’ve also included off-the-beaten-track sandy shores that are less than two hours away. 

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  • Attractions
  • Arcades and amusements
  • price 1 of 4

Acting like a kid again is never a bad idea, and these amusement parks near NYC are the perfect places to get your adrenaline pumping.

Good ol’ Coney Island is right in your backyard with one of our fave Ferris wheels and the famous Cyclone wooden roller coaster, but it’s also worth venturing to New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut for a fun day out. 

See great things to do on rooftops

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