For the first time since 2013, New Jersey residents are being treated to the city’s biggest fireworks celebration this July 4.
The fireworks, sponsored by Macy’s, will launch from barges on the Hudson River between 14th and 34th streets, making the waterfronts in Manhattan, Hoboken, Weehawken and Jersey City ideal vantage points to watch the show.
The 10,000 free tickets Mayor Eric Adams was offering have all been claimed, but a number of venues from the High Line to Hudson Yards are selling fancy $100+ tickets to their rooftop parties and viewing points.
But there are still plenty of places to take in the great views for free, no tickets required. For those watching the annual fireworks show at home, you can watch the official show, with performances by Luis Fonsi and Lainey Wilson, beginning at 8 p.m. Thursday on NBC and Peacock.
Here’s what you need to know.
What time does the big show begin?
The big fireworks show is set to begin around 9:25 p.m., though the television pre-show kicks off earlier at 8 p.m.
What’s the weather forecast like?
The forecast is showing cloudly skies with a slight chance of rain, with temperatures at 9 p.m. around 80 degrees along the water. Don’t fret: The fireworks will happen rain or shine.
Where do I enter the official viewing locations?
In Manhattan, six official entry points on the West Side Highway are being managed by the NYPD and listed below. No tickets are required and it’s free to show up. But try getting there early to snag a good spot.
- Christopher St. & Washington St. (ADA accessible)
- W. 11th St & Washington St.
- W. 12th St. & Washington St.
- W. 29th St. & 11th Ave.
- W. 40th St. & 11th Ave.
- W. 41st St. & 11th Ave. (ADA accessible)
There will be street closures and traffic changes. So make sure you check out the advisories ahead of time here, and information on transit changes here.
Hoboken has five official locations listed below, with detailed information on road closures and a few restricted areas available here. No tickets are required.
- Pier A Park
- Maxwell Place Park
- Sinatra Park
- Elysian Park
- Little League field (no chairs allowed)