Enjoy the 4th of July in New York: Macy’s Fireworks

The 4th of July Fireworks are without a doubt an event that you have to attend if you’re in New York during this time.
Since the declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776, the United States has welcome Independence Day with great enthusiasm.
In New York, the event is celebrated in the evening with fireworks sponsored by Macy’s, the department store.
In this article, you’ll find all the details to enjoy the 40^th Macy’s Fireworks show to the fullest. This year, the fireworks will take place on the East River.

When the New York 4^th of July fireworks start?

They start between 9 and 9:20 pm. They last between 25 to 30 minutes.

What’s Macy’s Fireworks’ budget?

Macy’s is sponsoring the 4^th of July fireworks with an estimated budget of more than $100,000.
And yes, they don’t do things lightly!!! 🙂

Where the fireworks are being launched?

For 2022, the fireworks will be launched from five different barges on the East River (between 23rd St and 34th).

Photo: Business Wire

What are the ideal locations to see the best of the 4^th of July Macy’s Fireworks 2022 in New York?

Macy’s published its map with the location of the barges and viewing spots in Manhattan.
I added more locations on the map below to see the fireworks 2022 from Queens and Brooklyn. Please note that you won’t see the fireworks from Brooklyn Bridge Park nor any spot below the bridge, either on Manhattan or Brooklyn Side.
Here’s my list:
– Four Freedoms Park en Roosevelt Island
– Gantry Plaza State Park: to be right in front of the first barges,
– WNYC Transmitter Park: small park on Greenpoint, Brooklyn,
– North 5th Street Park, Marsha P. Johnson Park: although these parks are located further south, you can see the fireworks very well. Now you have to get there very early because they are small,
– Domino Sugar Park: is even further south but with the advantage of having more space.

Paying venues to see Macy’s Fireworks:

What about going on a New York rooftop to enjoy the view?
Here are some of the places where you can see the fireworks:

FROM THE EMPIRE STATE BUILDING
It’s truly magical to see the fireworks from the ESB but honestly it’s rather hard to get a spot. There are only 250 spots, and these tickets cost $500 per person, which grants you access to the 86^th floor and enjoy a selection of wine, beers, and hors d’oeuvre.

Buy Tickets

FROM THE TOP OF THE ROCK
It’s also possible to go to the Top of the Rock and here, as far as I know, there is no special rate for the fireworks. On the other hand, space is limited; they won’t let everyone get up there 🙂

FROM THE ONE WORLD OBSERVATORY
The One World Obervatory holds special events for the Macy’s Fireworks. In 2022, you can book its 4th of July Premium Event, it costs $350/person with:
– Admission to One World Observatory 8pm-12am,
– 3 hours open bar featuring beer & wine (Guests 21+), sparkling water & soda, all American fare including hot dogs & soft pretzels
The event is only for +21 years old!

Buy Tickets

FROM THE EDGE:

The Edge is the new observatory in New York City. They host a special night from 7pm to midnight to watch the fireworks. It costs $250 per person with:
– 2 glasses of champagne (for those over 21), sparkling tea,
– snacks (popcorns).

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FROM SUMMIT ONE VANDERBILT:
Celebrate the Fourth of July from the newest observatory in New York City! The SUMMIT offers an exceptional view for $300/person with:
– Open bar from 7.30pm to 10pm,
– Blue Smoke specialties (BBQ restaurant),
– Free roam access across all three levels of SUMMIT.
Only available for 21+

Buy Tickets

FROM THE WHYTE HOTEL BAR:
This Williamsburg bar, Blondeau (formerly named Lemon’s), offers a magnificent view of the skyline. However, it’s a bit far away from the East River…
Address: 80 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn

FROM A CRUISE SHIP
On the 4th of July, cruises let you get a glimpse of the festivities from the Statue of Liberty. A DJ will entertain you in addition to the buffet and drinks.
The yacht leaves at 6 pm and returns at 11 pm.

The ultimate best free tip

If you have friends who happen to live in an apartment with a view high above on the East River then you’ll just have to join them, enjoy a glass of champagne and quietly appreciate the show without having to share your personal space with thousands of people 🙂

What TV channel broadcasts the Macy’s 4^th of July Fireworks?

If you’re not around New York, the fireworks are being showcased live on NBC at 9 pm.

Reminders:

If you decide to wait at your best spot to watch the fireworks and since it gets very hot in New York, make sure you bring:
– Few bottles of water
– A hat
– Sunscreen

Here’s a very nice video of Macy’s Fireworks 2021 with a magnificent ending:

Memo

My fist trip to New York was in 2007 when I was working for an airline company. I was born in the US, I lived in Mexico, in Europe in between Belgium, Spain and France… Well, let’s say I know about travelling! I bring my experience of NYC to the blog, to provide the best travel tips you could imagine!