Things To Do In NYC This Weekend! July 4 - July 6
NYC lights up for the Fourth of July! Expect dazzling fireworks, waterfront views, and epic skyline backdrops all weekend long.
New York City is gearing up for an extra-special summer weekend packed with Fourth of July celebrations, outdoor festivals, live music, and foodie fun. Whether you’re a local or visiting, there’s something for everyone – from free fireworks and family-friendly fairs to hot concerts and bustling markets. Below, we break down the best events happening across NYC this Friday through Sunday, with a mix of free and ticketed activities for all ages and interests. Read on, make your plans, and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable Independence Day weekend in the Big Apple!
🎆 Fourth of July Festivities
Coney Island’s iconic boardwalk comes alive with fireworks every Friday night in summer, including a special show on July 4th.
Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks: The headline event of the weekend is the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks spectacular over the East River. This year the pyrotechnics return to the Brooklyn Bridge area – fireworks will launch from the bridge itself and four barges on the lower East River in the Seaport District. The show is set to kick off around 8:00 PM on Friday, July 4 and will feature an estimated 80,000 shells lighting up the NYC skyline. The 25-minute display is synchronized to music and will be broadcast live on NBC, but it’s even more magical in person. Best viewing spots are along the Manhattan waterfront (portions of the FDR Drive are opened for spectators) and in Brooklyn with views of the bridge. Pro tip: arrive early (4–6 hours ahead) to claim a spot, as huge crowds are expected. If you’re willing to splurge, consider special rooftop parties or boat cruises for unique vantage points – many NYC rooftop bars (230 Fifth, The Skylark, Westlight, etc.) host ticketed July 4th parties with DJ music and open bars, and sightseeing companies run fireworks cruises with dinner and dancing .
Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest: No NYC Fourth of July is complete without this quirkiest of traditions. Head down to Coney Island, Brooklyn on Friday morning to witness competitive eaters devour absurd quantities of hot dogs at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest – an event now over 100 years old. The “race of legends” goes down at Nathan’s flagship stand on Surf Avenue & Stillwell Ave. Crowds of 20,000+ gather as champion eaters like Joey “Jaws” Chestnut attempt to break records (he once inhaled 76 hot dogs in 10 minutes!). The contest is free to watch (no tickets required for general viewing), but get there well before noon for a good view – the women’s competition typically starts around 11 AM and the men’s around 12 PM. It’s outrageous, uniquely American, and undeniably entertaining. Grab a Nathan’s dog (or two) for yourself and cheer on the contestants!
Independence Day Parades & Local Events: For a dose of community patriotism, check out NYC’s neighborhood July 4th events. Notably, Staten Island hosts the 115th Travis 4th of July Parade – one of the nation’s longest-running Independence Day parades. It kicks off at 12:30 PM on July 4 in the Travis neighborhood of Staten Island, starting by Independence Park (Victory Blvd & Glenn St.), with red, white, and blue pageantry marching through the streets. Over in historic Richmond Town (Staten Island), you can step back in time at the Old-Fashioned Independence Day Celebration (July 4, 11 AM–4 PM). This living-history event features costumed colonial founding fathers and mothers, a reading and signing of the Declaration of Independence, 19th-century games and even demonstrations of old-time fireworks making . It’s a perfect family outing (tickets $10 adults / $5 kids) for some educational fun. And for music lovers, the Staten Island Philharmonic will perform a free outdoor July 4th concert at 6:30 PM on the lawn of Snug Harbor Cultural Center, playing rousing patriotic tunes to celebrate America’s birthday.
Coney Island Fireworks (Friday Night): If you’re already in Coney Island for the hot dog contest, stick around for the weekly Friday Night Fireworks that Coney Island throws all summer long. On July 4 at 9:45 PM, the sky over the boardwalk will explode with color as part of Coney’s free fireworks series. These displays happen every Friday from June 20 through Labor Day at about 9:45, launched from the beach at West 12th Street. There’s nothing like ending the day with a stroll on the boardwalk, a Cyclone coaster ride, or an ice-cold lemonade – all under sparkling fireworks by the Wonder Wheel. It’s a classic NYC summer experience (and a great alternative if you prefer a more laid-back fireworks crowd away from Manhattan).
Rooftop Parties & Firework Cruises: NYC’s nightlife kicks into high gear for July 4th. Many rooftop lounges host themed parties with panoramic views of the fireworks. For example, the popular 230 Fifth Rooftop in Manhattan and Westlight in Brooklyn offer tickets that include cocktails and prime skyline sightlines . If dancing under the stars is your vibe, check out rooftop events at spots like The Skylark, Magic Hour, or Pier 17 – just be sure to reserve in advance as these often sell out. Another unforgettable option is a Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise. Companies like Circle Line, Hornblower, and Spirit Cruises offer special evening cruises on the Hudson or East River, so you can watch the Macy’s pyrotechnics from the water . These typically include open bar, food, and live DJs – a pricier outing (often $150+ per person) but truly memorable for the 360° views of the illuminated skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. Whether you choose a rooftop or a boat, you’ll get to toast Independence Day with a backdrop of fireworks and the NYC skyline – an epic night out!
Celebrate Independence Day NYC-style with an iconic hot dog—especially if you’re heading to the legendary Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest at Coney Island!
🎸 Concerts, Shows & Performances
New York’s performing arts scene doesn’t take a break for the holiday – in fact, this weekend offers everything from outdoor jazz to Broadway hits. Here are some highlights for music and theater lovers:
Free Concert in Bryant Park (July 4): Before the fireworks begin Friday, head to Bryant Park in Midtown for an evening of live music on the lawn. As part of the Bryant Park Picnic Performances series, the park is hosting the New York Guitar Festival on July 4 at 7 PM, completely free and open to all. Grab a blanket and enjoy performances by acclaimed guitarists Louis Cato, Jackie Venson, and Jontavious Willis under the stars. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly – feel free to bring a picnic. (Insider tip: Bryant Park has free picnic blankets to borrow on-site during these shows.) It’s a perfect low-key way to groove into the night before or even instead of watching fireworks. And if you miss the July 4 show, don’t worry – Bryant Park hosts free concerts every Friday through August as part of this series.
SummerStage & Outdoor Music: NYC’s parks are alive with music all summer. While the Central Park SummerStage festival has a break on July 4 itself, the series continues citywide with big free concerts throughout July. (For instance, R&B bounce legend Big Freedia brings the party to Herbert Von King Park on July 10, and hip-hop icons The Roots play Queens’ Flushing Meadows Corona Park on July 20.) Check the SummerStage schedule for upcoming shows – from indie rock to world music, there’s something for every taste, and no tickets are required. Another beloved series is the River & Blues Concerts at Battery Park City: on Thursday evenings in July, enjoy free blues, folk, and Americana concerts with gorgeous Hudson River sunset views. (While July 4 falls on Friday this year, you can catch River & Blues on other Thursdays in July at Rockefeller Park.) In short, keep your eyes peeled for free outdoor concerts – NYC offers jazz in the parks, waterfront DJ parties, and more all summer long.
Broadway & Off-Broadway Shows: If you’re looking to enjoy some air-conditioned entertainment or a late-night activity, consider catching a show. Broadway theatres are open on the weekend (though many go dark on July 4 itself – so check schedules). One buzzworthy Off-Broadway production right now is “Heathers: The Musical.” This hit show – based on the dark comedy 1989 film – has returned to NYC at New World Stages, running from June 22 through September 28. Fans of the cult-classic movie will love seeing Veronica, JD, and the almighty Heathers come to life on stage in a wickedly funny, song-filled romp. Tickets are on sale and the show plays multiple times over the weekend – a great option for musical theatre lovers. Of course, Broadway blockbusters are also at your fingertips (think Hamilton, Wicked, The Lion King), and holiday weekends can sometimes mean deals at the TKTS booth. Prefer something more avant-garde? Check out immersive theater or comedy – NYC’s comedy clubs and off-off venues are always hosting shows if you want a laugh or some experimental art in your itinerary.
“Amplified” – Rock & Roll Exhibit: Music aficionados might swing by ARTECHOUSE NYC (in Chelsea) for the new “Amplified: Rolling Stone 60th Anniversary” exhibit. This interactive art experience celebrates six decades of Rolling Stone magazine’s history – from iconic cover images to never-before-seen photos of rock legends. It’s like a mini museum of rock ’n’ roll, blended with ARTECHOUSE’s signature high-tech visuals. Perfect for a daytime activity, especially if an afternoon thunderstorm drives you indoors. Tickets are required, and the exhibit is open through the summer.
Candlelight Concerts: For a more intimate musical experience, consider one of NYC’s enchanting Candlelight Concerts. These popular events feature classical musicians or string quartets performing by (electric) candlelight in atmospheric venues – and this series has special themed editions running all the time. Over the weekend you might find a tribute to Queen in a downtown cathedral, a Taylor Swift string tribute in a Williamsburg venue, or even an Anime soundtracks concert in a historic church. The programming spans genres from hip-hop to classical, all bathed in flickering candle glow. It’s a romantic and unique night out if you’re looking for something different. Check Fever or the Candlelight Concerts website for the latest schedule and to book tickets. With everything from ABBA to Adele tributes on the roster, you’re sure to find a concert that hits the right note.
Free Outdoor Theater: Shakespeare in the Park might be on hiatus this year (the Delacorte Theater in Central Park is under renovation), but you can still catch free theater performances outdoors this weekend. The New York Classical Theatre company is presenting All’s Well That Ends Well in rotating city parks (last year it was seen in Battery Park and Carl Schurz Park – check their 2025 schedule). Plus, various local theater troupes bring pop-up shows to parks in Harlem, Brooklyn, and the Lower East Side all summer. There’s a special magic in watching a play under open skies as the city buzzes around you. Keep an eye out for these alfresco performances – they’re usually free and open to all, inviting you to experience a bit of culture casually. From Shakespearean comedies to modern dance in the park, you never know what you might stumble upon in NYC!
🎡 Festivals, Fairs & Fun for All Ages
Beyond the official Independence Day events, the city is hosting plenty of festivals and fairs that will run throughout the weekend. These are perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in NYC’s diverse cultures and communities:
Explore NYC’s rich cultural tapestry this weekend at festivals like the International African Arts Festival in Brooklyn’s Commodore Barry Park.
International African Arts Festival (July 4–6): Spend part of your weekend celebrating African and African-American culture at this vibrant festival in Brooklyn’s Commodore Barry Park (Fort Greene). Running Friday through Sunday, the International African Arts Festival (now in its 54th year) brings three days of live music, dance, spoken word, crafts, and more to the park. Browse the African marketplace with vendors selling clothing, jewelry, and artwork from across the African diaspora. Multiple stages showcase performances ranging from drum circles and Afrobeat bands to spoken word poetry slams. It’s a family-friendly event with a true community feel – and typically free admission (with donations welcome). If you want to groove to soulful rhythms, savor some Caribbean jerk chicken or West African jollof rice, and support local artisans, this festival is a must-visit. (Getting there: take the F train to York St or B/D/Q to DeKalb Av and walk over.) Don’t forget to wear comfortable clothes and maybe bring a folding chair or blanket for lounging in the park.
Independence Day Street Fair (Empire Outlets): Staten Island is throwing a Stars, Stripes & Sights festival outside Empire Outlets (the open-air mall by the St. George Ferry Terminal) on July 4 from 12–8 PM. This all-day street fair will feature local artists and independent vendors, live music, great food from Staten Island eateries, and fun activities for kids. As evening falls, you’ll also have one of the best views in Staten Island of various fireworks displays across the harbor – without the Manhattan crowds. The event is free to attend; it’s a perfect add-on if you take the (free) Staten Island Ferry over to explore the North Shore. While there, you could also ride the Staten Island FerryHawks (minor league baseball) game at nearby SIUH Community Park at 7 PM, which will have its own fireworks show after the game! Staten Island is definitely bringing the patriotic spirit this weekend.
Cultural Festivals & Exhibits: Over at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum (Pier 86, Manhattan), check out their “Summer Movie Series” if you want something different – on Friday evening they’re screening a classic film on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier (yes, outdoors under the stars!) as part of the holiday week events. If you’re an art lover, note that MoMA PS1’s Warm Up 2025 kicks off later in July – a cutting-edge outdoor music/art party on Fridays – not this weekend, but keep it on your radar. And if you venture up to Harlem or Washington Heights, some neighborhoods host informal block parties or local firework shows (for example, community organizations sometimes set off small-scale fireworks on July 4 in parks like Inwood Hill – check local listings or community boards). The key is: explore! NYC’s neighborhoods each have their own way of celebrating, and you might stumble on an unexpected street DJ, a church barbecue, or a pop-up carnival. This weekend is all about citywide festivities – there’s no shortage of fun.
🥕 Foodie Alerts: Markets, Eats & Drinks
Stock up on local produce and artisanal treats at NYC’s vibrant farmers markets this weekend—perfect fuel for all your holiday adventures!
A big holiday weekend means big appetites! Luckily, New York has you covered with amazing food events and markets to keep you fueled:
Smorgasburg Food Markets: Smorgasburg, NYC’s gigantic outdoor food bazaar, will be in full swing all weekend for all the foodies out there. This open-air market brings together dozens of local food vendors offering creative bites from all over the world. Each day of the weekend, you can catch Smorgasburg in a different borough: Fridays at the World Trade Center plaza (Manhattan), Saturdays in Williamsburg’s Marsha P. Johnson Park (Brooklyn), and Sundays in Prospect Park (Brooklyn). Admission is free – you just pay for whatever tasty treats you want to try. And there is so much to try: think fragrant Ethiopian stews, Hawaiian poke bowls, Indian pani puri, New Orleans beignets, Japanese ramen burgers, and wild mashups you never imagined. In its 15th year, Smorgasburg showcases 70+ vendors and is basically a paradise for grazing. Grab a Korean barbecue taco or some vegan cookies & cream ice cream, find a spot with a view, and enjoy. (Insider tip: go early or later to avoid peak lines, bring cash as well as cards, and definitely come hungry!)
Queens Night Market (Saturday Night): For a festive evening vibe, the Queens Night Market is a must-visit on Saturday, July 5. Held in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park (behind the NY Hall of Science) from 4 PM till midnight every summer Saturday, this family-friendly night market features 100+ independent vendors selling affordable international foods, art, and more. You’ll find cuisines from all over the globe – Afghan mantu dumplings, Colombian arepas, Trinidadian curry crab, Ukrainian pierogi, West African suya skewers, you name it. The best part? Most food items are capped at $5 or $6 each by the organizers, keeping it one of NYC’s most affordable foodie experiences . There’s also live music and cultural performances, making it a lively night out for all ages. Admission is free (parking is available for a fee, or take the 7 train to 111th St). The Queens Night Market’s mission is to be NYC’s most diverse, welcoming community event – and after 10 seasons, it really is a beloved New York summer tradition . Come ready to sample a bit of everything and mingle with thousands of fellow market-goers under the open sky.
Farmers’ Markets Galore: If you love browsing fresh produce, baked goods, and locally made treats, be sure to hit one of NYC’s many farmers’ markets during the weekend. The granddaddy of them all is the Union Square Greenmarket in Manhattan – open on Friday and Saturday (8 AM–6 PM) with over 100+ farmers and vendors from around the region. Here you’ll find tables overflowing with summer vegetables, juicy berries, orchard fruits, artisanal breads, farmstead cheeses, homemade pickles, jams, honey, flowers, and even New York-made wines and spirits. (Don’t miss the famous New England clam chowder stand or the maple syrup cotton candy if it’s there!) This market has been going since 1976 and can draw tens of thousands of shoppers – a true NYC experience. Uptown on Sunday, the 79th Street Greenmarket by the Museum of Natural History is another gem, known for its fresh fish, farm-fresh eggs, and baked pies . In Brooklyn, check out the Grand Army Plaza Greenmarket at the entrance of Prospect Park on Saturday – it’s adjacent to the Brooklyn Museum and Botanic Garden, so you can make a whole day of it. They sell everything from local maple syrup to hard cider and artisan breads. Queens has the wonderful Jackson Heights Greenmarket on Sundays, the city’s largest and busiest in that borough, reflecting the neighborhood’s diversity with specialty Mexican produce, Latin American breads, and more alongside the usual farm fare. Wherever you are, there’s likely a Greenmarket nearby (the Bronx and Staten Island have them too!). Strolling a farmers’ market is a lovely morning activity – you’ll support regional farmers and maybe pick up picnic supplies for later. Pro tip: Many markets offer free samples; try a bite of that heirloom tomato or artisanal cheese before you buy!
NYC Bar & Brewery Scene: Of course, after long days of events you might want to unwind with a drink. Fortunately, NYC’s beer gardens, breweries, and bars are ready for the holiday crowds. Many local craft breweries – such as Brooklyn Brewery (Williamsburg), Other Half (Red Hook), and Bronx Brewery (Port Morris) – have taprooms where you can chill out with a cold one. Some, like Staten Island’s Flagship Brewery, are even hosting July 4th weekend events (think limited edition brews and live music). If cocktails are more your scene, consider seeking out a rooftop bar (as mentioned earlier) or a speakeasy for a nightcap. Tip: The weekend after July 4 is also the start of Summer Restaurant Week promotions in NYC, so keep an eye out for announcements – you could snag a deal at a normally pricey restaurant. And if you need a day-after hangover cure, don’t worry: NYC has you covered with famous brunch spots and bagel shops on virtually every corner!
🗽 Enhance Your Weekend with a guide built for you!
Make your weekend unforgettable with a custom Karissa Eats NYC Guide—packed with curated food and drink stops to match your plans!
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Karissa offers personalized NYC guides tailored exactly to your interests – and it’s the perfect complement to an event-filled weekend. For example, say you’re checking out the July 4th fireworks in Lower Manhattan: Karissa’s guide might point you to a cozy hidden cocktail bar nearby for post-fireworks drinks, or a late-night dumpling spot in Chinatown to satisfy those midnight cravings. Heading to Coney Island for the hot dog contest? She could recommend a great pizza joint or an ice cream shop along the way (she’s all about the food, after all!). Planning to wander a street fair or museum? Karissa might suggest a detour to a beloved neighborhood bakery or an off-the-beaten-path bookstore that only a local would know. Her guides are carefully crafted, not generic – each recommendation is chosen to fit your vibe, budget, and cravings .
What makes a Karissa Eats guide special is her deep passion for NYC’s food scene and culture. She ensures you won’t just eat the standard pizza slice (though she’ll tell you where to get the best one); you’ll also discover those “OMG I’ve never heard of this but it’s amazing” finds. We’re talking things like a dog-friendly café in the East Village where you can sip lattes while playing with puppies, or a secret spa on Governors Island with skyline views for a relaxing break – real suggestions from Karissa’s own adventures. Of course, she covers the classics too, from the tastiest dollar dumplings in Chinatown to the trendiest new brunch in Brooklyn. With her culinary expertise, you’ll get a mix of iconic NYC eats and hidden culinary gems in your itinerary . Craving a perfect bagel, authentic dim sum, or a rooftop with the best cocktail? Karissa knows exactly where to go .
Instead of spending hours sifting through endless “top 10” lists online, a guide from Karissa gives you a curated plan so you can maximize your time. It’s like having a savvy New Yorker friend craft your schedule – you’ll hit the events you came for and enjoy awesome food and activities in between. No more FOMO or second-guessing; Karissa’s done the legwork for you . Many of her followers rave that a personalized Karissa Eats guide helped them discover new favorite spots and made their trip truly unforgettable .
So as you map out what to do this weekend, consider letting Karissa add her foodie wisdom to your plans. You can order a custom NYC guide directly from her (through Welcome Compass) and get a tailor-made itinerary – whether it’s a romantic couple’s weekend, a family adventure, or a solo foodie tour . She’ll fill it with the best things to do and eat based on what you love. It’s the perfect way to ensure that in between all these great events – the fireworks, concerts, markets, and festivals – you’re also experiencing NYC’s vibrant food culture and hidden treasures to the fullest. With Karissa’s tips in hand, your July 4th weekend in NYC won’t just be busy, it’ll be legendary (and delicious!).
Happy 4th of July, and have an amazing weekend in New York City! Whether you’re gazing at fireworks over the East River, dancing in a park, munching on international goodies at a night market, or discovering a cool speakeasy recommended by Karissa Eats, we hope you make incredible memories. NYC in the summer is pure magic – enjoy every minute of it, and stay safe out there. 🇺🇸🎉
