Fourth of July in New York City:

Monday, July 4, 2011

While many people head to the beach for the Fourth of July, there are a wide array of activities to keep locals and visitors in New York City for July 4th entertained.

Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks
Beginning at approximately 9:20 p.m., Macy's will have fireworks being released from six barges in the Hudson River. This year's theme is American Harmony taking spectators through the history of American music. The New York Pops Orchestra and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir will perform, and there will be unique versions of classic patriotic tunes performed by Straight No Chaser, Broadway Inspirational Voices, U.S. Army Soldier’s Chorus, and United We Sing. The music will be performed in sync with the fireworks and can be heard on 1010 WINS. If you're not in the area, NBC will broadcast the fireworks live beginning at 9 p.m. EST.
Hudson River below 59th Street
Fireworks will be launched from six barges in the Hudson River. 12th Avenue will be closed below 59th beginning at 4 p.m. for viewing. Pedestrians can access the 12th Avenue from 11th Avenue at 24th, 26th-30th, 34th, 40th-44th, 47th-52nd and 54th-57th streets. The West Side Highway will be closed to vehicular traffic from 22nd-59th Street starting at 4 p.m. You can also view the Macy's Fourth of July fireworks from anywhere you have an unobstructed view of the sky above the Hudson River.

NYC 4th of July celebration will be one you won’t soon forget. Whether you’re looking for a place to party or to bring the kids, where better to spend the 4th of July than the city that never sleeps? There are many ways to celebrate being American in New York City: hot dog eating contests, fireworks, concerts, cruises around Manhattan, and shopping sales will all have a patriotic spin. One favorite element is July 4 fireworks in Manhattan. Be prepared to be blown away—just like everything else in New York City the fireworks display is over the top.

Are you looking for a special way to celebrate the 4th this year? One of the most memorable Fourth of July events is a water taxi tour that provides visitors with incredible views of the fireworks. Why crowd in with other people in the parks when you can watch the show from a bobbing boat? For approximately $100 you can spend your 2011 NYC 4th of July on a boat with views of the city and fireworks. This package includes a boxed dinner and also has a cash bar. Departing at 6.30 and returning at 10 pm, you will still have plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the night in the city. Seeing July 4 fireworks in Manhattan from a boat will make your trip extra special.

There are many other options for 4th of July dinner cruises as well including the Spirit of New Jersey Dinner Cruise, the Circle Line cruise, and more. If you prefer your 2011 Fourth of July events on land, head to Battery Park where free concerts are held each year. This afternoon concert allows visitors to enjoy the park and views out towards the ultimate symbol of freedom, the Statue of Liberty. Concerts throughout New York City are family friendly events, so bring along your kids and treat them to an ice cream cone or cotton candy from one of the many vendors. Don’t miss the chance to try a real New York hot dog too.

One of the most anticipated Fourth of July events takes place in Coney Island, Brooklyn. Sponsored by Nathan’s hot dogs, the annual hot-dog eating contest has been an annual event since the early twentieth century. Every year at noon, visitors arrive to see who can eat the most hot dogs. Historically, the winner was seen as being more patriotic than the losers. If you want a good seat, it is advised to arrive to Coney Island by 11 am at the latest. 4th of July events in NYC are staggered throughout the day, so it is possible to not only celebrate the holiday, but also to take a tour of the city at the same time.