NYC is on and popping for the Fourth of July and it’s exactly where you need to be for the holiday. There’s plenty to do and travelers are flying in from all over for the festivities. From day parties and extreme eating contests to yacht cruises and 3D fireworks, NYC has a little bit of everything for the whole family this Independence Day.

Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks

Macy´s Fireworks 4th of July in NYC — Photo credit: A6U3AD

When: July 4, 2023 at 9:45 p.m. EST

Where: Macy’s Official Viewing Locations

Admission: Free

The Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks display has been taking place in New York City since 1976. It’s only right you make your way there to check out the bright lights again this year. There are multiple official viewing locations to view the display. However, TimeOut says locals can find a good spot anywhere along the Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens waterfronts. Macy’s will be setting off 2,400 per minute for 25 minutes in what they are calling “a host of shells and numerous effects in 30 colors and shapes.” With so many fireworks events happening in one day, Macy’s is definitely the top choice for this year.

Coney Island Day Party

Singer Ashanti on stage performing — Photo credit: Jeremychanphotography

When: July 2 & 4, 2023

Where: Brooklyn Boardwalk at Coney Island

Admission: $49 for General Admission

Coney Island is exactly where the party is at during Independence Day weekend in NYC. The Day Party is happening with two iconic concerts to attend featuring several favorite music artists. Guests can expect performances from Ashanti, Ja Rule, Kehlani, and more. DJ Funk Flex will also be spinning on the ones and twos. Once the family bonding and fireworks are over, Coney Island is definitely the place to be.

Nathans Hot Dog Eating Contest

When: July 4, 2023

Where: Corner of Surf & Stillwell

Admission: Free

For a dose of sheer comedy, be sure to check out Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. ESPN will be there covering the event as well as a slew of New Yorkers ready to see who’s hailed this year’s champion. Currently, Joey Chestnut holds the hot dog-eating title, consuming 63 dogs in 2022. There’s no telling who will win this year. However, the spectacle is definitely worth the watch if you’re in NYC on Independence Day.

July 4th Desi Cruise

When: July 4, 2023

Where: Skyport Marina

Admission: Tickets start at $49.99

For a taste of India with your Independence Day barbecue, hop aboard the July 4th Desi Cruise. The yacht departs from the Skyport Marina at 1 PM EST and sails for 4 hours along the river. Not only will you get incredible panoramic views of NYC but there will be amazing food on board from an authentic Desi dinner buffet. The multi-level boat provides all types of vibes including a summertime dance floor, DJ sets, and a sky deck.

Red, White & BOOM At Legoland

plastic toy blocks — Photo credit: barleyman

When: July 4, 2023

Where: LEGOLAND New York

Admission: Park Admission Price

If you are looking for family-friendly fun, head over to LEGOLAND in NYC for a 3D fireworks display. There will also be select activities throughout the evening as the display flairs over the Hudson River. As the fireworks explode, they’ll burst into magnificent 3D LEGO blocks.