4th Of July NYC 2017: Independence Day Guide To Concerts, Cruises And Fireworks

Fourth of July weekend has arrived — this means lots of food, relaxation and fun events all over NYC. It’s time to fire up the grill and relax with family and friends. And if the weather cooperates, you’ll be able to enjoy fireworks, cruises and concerts among other events during the holiday. Here some of the best ways New Yorkers can celebrate Independence Day this year.

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Fireworks:

The most prominent fireworks display in the city is Macy’s 41st Fourth of July Fireworks located on the East River. The annual fireworks show will launch pyrotechnics from five barges between 24th Street and 41st Street along the river. The best viewing spots can are found near Long Island City and Midtown. Patrons can also find great viewing spots in Brooklyn near Williamsburg, the East Village, and Greenpoint.

The fireworks will begin at 9:25 p.m. The entire show is about 25 minutes long. Macy’s will fire off more than 60,000 shells, including 21 new fireworks patterns, with red, white and blue. If you want to see the fireworks but can't make it out, you can live stream footage of the show here.

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Cruises:

There’s nothing more relaxing than sailing during the summer. NYC has a variety of different boat options for sea lovers on the 4th And there’s nothing more exciting than watching the fireworks from the water. However, cruises can run $200 and up. Circle Line July 4th Fireworks Cruise offers the best seats best places on the water to view the “largest display of patriotic firepower,” at the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular.

The cruise has food, drinks and a live DJ. You are sure to have a blast. The cruise route will head south from Pier 83 to the Statue of Liberty then it will turn up to the East River. The boat returns to Pier 83 after the fireworks are over. For information on tickets and schedules, click here.

Concerts:

And if you want to hear live music, you’re in luck. There are a few options for those looking to catch musical acts. The Blue Note Jazz Festival is a free concert at South Street Seaport. It starts at 5:30 p.m. and ends at around 9 p.m. Summer of Love at the Park will have house and disco music, located at Flushing Ave, Queens from 1–9p.m. free with R.S.V.P and $10 otherwise.

NBC will be putting on a 2-hour concert starting at 8 p.m. There will be performances by artists such as Sheryl Crow, Jennifer Lopez, Brad Paisley, Charlie Puth, Lady Antebellum and Hailee Steinfeld. For more concerts taking place around the city, click here.

Happy Independence Day!