The Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks display, touted as the largest celebration in the nation, has become a staple of observing Independence Day in New York City. And luckily for Brooklynites, this year’s show will be returning to the Brooklyn Bridge area for the first time since 2014.
More than 70,000 shells in 28 different colors will be shot off from four barges parked just south of the Brooklyn Bridge, as well as from more than 100 locations on the bridge itself, including the roadway and towers.
Susan Tercero, executive producer for the show, called it an “unprecedented barrage of color, light, sounds and shapes that will delight millions.”
The show will begin at approximately 9:20 p.m. The holiday is just days away — so be sure to finalize plans soon.
With millions of spectators expected to flood the waterfront to view the 43rd annual performance, we’ve handpicked the top locations in Brooklyn to watch the show. Plus, we’ve recommended some other fireworks displays across the borough. From rooftop bars and public parks to catered viewing parties, there’s something for everyone.
1. The Brooklyn Heights Promenade
The Brooklyn Heights Promenade. Eagle file photo by Lore Croghan
Although the Brooklyn Heights Promenade is notorious for being crowded for the fireworks display, no one can argue that it is an ideal location.
With sweeping views from the Statue of Liberty to the Brooklyn Bridge and beyond, viewers will be treated to fireworks in all their glory. Plus, viewers will not only see Macy’s fireworks, but also the neighboring show in Liberty State Park in New Jersey.
Be sure to arrive several hours early to claim a spot on one of the benches.
2. Brooklyn Bridge Park
4th of July Fireworks viewed from Pier 2 in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Fireworks seen from Brooklyn Bridge Park. Photo by Etienne Frossard
Brooklyn Bridge Park is the closest one can physically get to the fireworks from land. The barges will be spaced out between Pier 1 and Pier 6, so find some space on any of the waterfront benches lining the piers or a patch of grass to lay a blanket down. We recommend going to the small AstroTurf field at the end of Pier 2 or on the lawn at Pier 1.
A sunset seen from Fornino’s rooftop deck. Photo courtesy of Fornino
With a beautiful rooftop bar overlooking the water, delicious wood-burning pizza and free-flowing drinks, Fornino at Pier 6 makes for an epic location to watch the show.
The restaurant is offering a three-course buffet serving wood-fired seasonal vegetables, cheese and salami, antipasti, pizza, chicken parmesan, meatballs and an assortment of Italian pasties. Plus you can take in a breathtaking sunset just before the show starts.
The newly opened rooftop bar at Time Out Market will have unobstructed views of the fireworks. Enjoy signature cocktails and beers crafted just for the terrace at the landmarked Empire Stores. Tickets for the party are $200 per person, but $100 will go toward food and drink. You can reserve tables for 4, 8, 10, 12 and 16 people.
Westlight on the 22nd floor of The William Vale. Photo by Noah Fecks
The William Vale’s 22nd-floor bar may not be on the water like some of the other locations on this list, but it’s high enough to see the entire show. Be sure to book a table to skip the line and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline. Don’t forget to order some food — we recommend the shrimp cocktail dumplings or the herb fries with chipotle aioli.
6. Rooftop Reds
Patrons enjoy dinner on the terrace of Rooftop Reds. Photo courtesy of Rooftop Reds
Hammocks, corn hole and city views: Need we say more? Celebrate the holiday at the world’s first commercially viable rooftop vineyard. Rooftop Reds in the Brooklyn Navy Yard will be serving beer, wine and barbecue fare from Dinosaur BBQ. There will also be music.
What better place to celebrate the holiday than at The People’s Playground?
Head to Coney Island for a smaller but equally dazzling fireworks display. Better yet, spend the entire day at the beach, watch the hot dog eating contest, enjoy dinner at Gargiulo’s and watch the fireworks show from the Riegelmann Boardwalk. The amusement park will be open all night.
Traveling out of town for the holiday, but want to see fireworks a day early? Head to the Fort Hamilton military base to watch a pyrotechnic display on July 3. There will be food, vendors, salsa dancing and classic rock music.
SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.
ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.
