Every year, scenes depicting the Fourth of July are painted with visions of pool parties, trips to the beach, hot dog eating contests, and—of course—night skies embellished with the pyrotechnic glow of local fireworks displays.
This Independence Day, we’ve created a list of six places to watch the 2019 fireworks in NJ and NYC. Here, you and your family will have a front row seat to some of the best displays and shows in the New Jersey and New York City area.
Jersey City
The 50 Star Fire Show is the largest in New Jersey, one that grabs your attention, and takes your breath away. Events held in the Exchange Place area during the day include world-class entertainment featuring Pitbull and Akon, activities with the New York Red Bulls soccer team, carnival rides, and for those of age — the Love Beer Festival. Beginning after dark, various parks and restaurants will host viewing parties of the unforgettable show, featuring festive menu specials and live music.
Hoboken
As a continuation of the patriotic festivities taking place in Jersey City, there will be a carnival along Hudson Street. In response to the heavier trend in pedestrian traffic during the holiday, several restaurants will feature festive drink specials, celebratory menu options, and plenty of live music to enjoy. At dusk, grab a blanket and lounge in the greenery of Sinatra Park to enjoy the 50 Star Fire Show from a distance.
Hudson River
Due North of The City, enjoy some time in downtown Yonkers as they put on a spectacular fireworks display set to a romantic riverside backdrop. From 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. you and the whole family can enjoy live DJ spinning. Discover the beauty of this downtown area as you walk alongside historic sights, and a bustling urban scene.
East River
The East River is the perfect place to secure a perfect view of the world-renowned Macy’s Fireworks show. Some of the best spots to celebrate include Broad Street & Water Street, Robert F. Wagner Sr. Place & St. James Place, and Pike Slip & Cherry Street. With musical performances throughout the night, these East River viewing points offer an unobstructed vision of one of the largest celebrations of America’s Independence.
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk
On any summer day, this classic New Jersey hotspot is a family favorite for sure. Between carnival rides, boardwalk games, local eateries, lifeguard-monitored beaches, and a diverse aquarium there are plenty of things to see and memories to make by day. This Fourth of July, as the sun sets and the tide rolls out, find a cozy spot on the beach to enjoy a star-spangled show that is sure to leave the whole family in awe.
Coney Island
The Fourth of July is an especially important holiday at the Coney Island Boardwalk, where speed-eating superstars like Joey Chestnut and Miki Sudo run the show. The world-famous Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest takes place at 10:30 a.m. and is open for anyone to watch. After the new Hot Dog Eating champion is crowned, enjoy locational boardwalk shops and games, as well as various rides and beach activities. After dark, prepare to be inspired by Coney Island’s very own firework show, the perfect ending to a fun-filled day at a classic American landmark.
Wherever you find yourself this Fourth of July, we hope that you and your loved ones have the opportunity to honor America the Beautiful through any of these safe, healthy, and fun-filled celebrations.
Kiera is a New Jersey native and Summer Intern at The Digest Online. She has an appetite for fruits, veggies, and unfolding narratives.
