From fireworks to the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Championship to Lobster Fest NYC, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this year’s NYC Fourth of July celebrations. Here are three events to check out this year.

Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks 2023

When: Tuesday, July 4, beginning at 9:25 p.m.

Where: Watch from Midtown Manhattan between E. 26th and E 40th streets.

A New York City tradition since 1976, experience the mesmerizing spectacle as over 60,000 shells (2,400 per minute) illuminate the night sky from five barges along the East River. Lasting 25 awe-inspiring minutes, Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks showcase boasts a dazzling array of effects, featuring a vibrant palette of 30 colors and shapes. 

This year’s extravaganza introduces captivating additions, including a majestic mile-wide waving flag crafted from red, white, and blue palm and strobing shells, a captivating sunflower ring, striking red stop sign-shaped effects, and mesmerizing ghost pyro that seamlessly transitions between colors. Prepare to be enchanted by this breathtaking display of pyrotechnic artistry. Learn more about Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks.

Other recommended spots, according to Timeout.com:

• The FDR Drive in Manhattan at East 42nd Street, East 34th Street and East 23rd Street
• Transmitter Park, Bushwick Inlet Park and Marsha P. Johnson State Park in Brooklyn
• Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City

Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Championship

Where: 1310 Surf Ave., Coney Island, Brooklyn

When: July 4, 2023, at 10 a.m.

Join New Yorkers for the iconic Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest at Coney Island’s Nathan’s Famous. Watch the world’s top competitive eaters battle it out at noon on July 4th, 2023. Sanctioned by the International Federation of Competitive Eating, this renowned event attracts thousands. Witness the attempt to break the current record of 76 hot dogs in 10 minutes, held by Joey Chestnut. The contest takes place at Maimonides Park, located at Surf and Stillwell Avenues in Brooklyn’s Coney Island. Don’t miss this free public event! Learn more about Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Championship.

Lobster Fest NYC

Where: Coney Art Walls, 3050 Stillwell Avenue, Brooklyn

When: Saturday, July 2, 2022 · 3 – 10pm 

Indulge in a delectable treat during your visit to NYC for the 4th of July: lobster! Don’t miss the annual Lobster Fest NYC, usually scheduled on July 2nd at Coney Art Walls. This vibrant Brooklyn event, hosted by the renowned local radio station Hot 97, offers complimentary lobster and crab-inspired dishes from 3pm to 5pm, as well as complimentary tequila from 3pm to 4:30pm. Explore a variety of creative and mouthwatering lobster delicacies available from local vendors, perfect for the entire family. Make sure to mark your calendar for this must-attend event, starting at 3pm and continuing until 10 p.m. Learn more about Lobster Fest NYC 2023.