The nation’s largest Independence Day fireworks display is back on the East River, and New Yorkers are ready. After a brief return to the Hudson last year, the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks are lighting up the East side again, delighting Brooklyn residents and fireworks fans across the city.
Fireworks Details:
- Location: Brooklyn Bridge and four barges on the lower East River near the Seaport
- Time: 9:25 p.m.
- Broadcast: Live performances and fireworks aired on NBC and Peacock starting at 8 p.m.
- Performers: Jonas Brothers, Ava Max, Keke Palmer, Lenny Kravitz, Eric Church, Trisha Yearwood
- Fireworks Effects: 11 new effects including crackling crown jellyfish, atomic rings, yellow and green sunbursts, and comet fans with 30 new colors and 80,000 shells
Official Public Viewing 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: Murry Bergtraum Softball Field (access at Pike Slip and Cherry Street)
Prohibited Items:
- Alcohol, backpacks, blankets, cigarettes, drones, duffle bags, e-cigarettes, large coolers, lawn chairs, umbrellas, weapons, and motorized scooters
Other Prime Viewing Spots (Unofficial):
- Seaport District
- Dumbo
- Brooklyn Heights Promenade (arrive early)
Where Not to Watch:
- West Side of Manhattan and New Jersey
- Areas of the FDR in Midtown
- The Battery and Battery Park City
- East River Park
- Hunter’s Point South Waterfront Park
- Roosevelt Island
- Governors Island (except ticketed spa event)
- Gantry Plaza State Park
Alternative NYC Fireworks:
- Coney Island Beach: 9 p.m. fireworks show following Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest
Observation Deck Celebrations:
- The Edge at Hudson Yards: Open bar, unlimited appetizers, live DJ
- One World Observatory: 360-degree views, commemorative photo, fireworks access
Hotel Rooftop Parties:
- 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge – Harriet’s Rooftop: Open bar, buffet, DJ (highly sought-after location)
- Virgin Hotels: 39th-floor party with prime views
- Wythe Hotel, Williamsburg: Garden party with frozen cocktails and vinyl tunes
Poolside Fireworks Viewing:
- QC New York Spa, Governors Island: Outdoor pools with direct fireworks views (five-hour spa passes start at $98)
- Somewhere Nowhere NYC: Sunset rooftop pool party with DJ lineup and open vodka bar from 4 to 5 p.m.
Reminder:
It is illegal to buy, sell, transport, or use consumer fireworks in New York City, despite the rogue fireworks often heard around neighborhoods.
New Yorkers and visitors alike can look forward to a sky filled with color, music, and celebration, whether viewing from the East River or the comfort of a rooftop oasis.
