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While the Macy's 4th of July fireworks are totally FREE to watch, there are some important things to know before you go. We've got the scoop on how to find the best places to watch the Macy's 4th of July fireworks in NYC, when to go, and what to bring.

Macy's 4th of July Fireworks 2025: All the Details

The 49th annual Macy's 4th of July fireworks display takes place over the East River and from the Brooklyn Bridge, with four barges near the South Street Seaport. The show begins around 9:25pm and lasts approximately 25 minutes. In the event of rain, the start time could be delayed.

Past shows have included myriad pyrotechnic effects from Pyro Spectaculars by Souza. Among the highlights of the multi-colored spectacle are fireworks in more than 30 different colors and shapes. The signature Macy's Golden Mile is a glittering fan-favorite. The stunning display sends sparklers skyward up to 1,000 feet above the water's surface. This year's show promises 80,000 shells will be sent skyward, in 30 different shades, and including 11 new special effects.

If your little one isn't a fan of fireworks in general, try to find a viewing spot that's not in the middle of the action, with an easy exit plan in case you need it.

Of course, you need to claim your viewing spot long before sundown. Be prepared to stand or sit on the ground: The New York Police Department won't allow you into viewing areas with backpacks, lawn chairs, or other large items, and it often searches bags.

If you're not up for fighting for a great spot, you can always watch the Macy's 4th of July fireworks live on NBC or stream it on Peacock from your couch.

Where to Watch Macy's 4th of July Fireworks 2025

This year, sparklers will be set off from the Brooklyn Bridge and four additional barges in the East River nearby.

Free public viewing is available from any area with an unobstructed view of the East River. Public viewing can be enjoyed from the elevated portions of the FDR Drive in Lower Manhattan. Access points, managed by the NYPD, are available at: 

• Montgomery Street at Madison Street
• Robert F. Wagner Sr. Place and Brooklyn Bridge off/on ramps
• Broad Street at Water Street

ADA viewing will be available at the Murry Bergtraum Softball Field with access at Pike Slip and Cherry Street

Additionally, City Hall distributed 100,000 FREE tickets to prime viewing locations along Piers 16 and 17 at the South Street Seaport and within Brooklyn Bridge Park via a lottery. These tickets have sold out, which means the above public viewing sites are your only option on the holiday.

Because this information sometimes changes at the last minute, check the Macy's website before heading out the door or call the store's dedicated Macy's 4th of July fireworks hotline at 212-494-4495. Many streets will also be closed to traffic, so whatever you do, don't drive!

Important Closures Due to the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks

Significant portions of the waterfront in Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn Heights will be closed beginning Friday afternoon. The following locations are not recommended for fireworks viewing, and many will be closed off entirely:

• East River Park and the East River Park Esplanade
• Piers 35, 36, and 42 in Manhattan
• Brooklyn Heights Promenade—closed beginning at 2pm to non-residents and non-ticketholders
• Gantry Plaza State Park
• Hunter's Point South Waterfront
• Roosevelt Island
• Governors Island—the last ferry departs the island at 3pm

Additionally, due to a harbor closure, NYC Ferry Service will encounter disruptions. Visit the NYC Ferry website for the latest information on its schedule for the holiday. 

Paid Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Viewing Options

If you feel like splurging, consider hopping on a boat. We rounded up some of the most family-friendly 4th of July fireworks cruises sailing out of Manhattan, the Bronx, and New Jersey. There are also several venues around the city that host viewing parties, but many are just for those ages 21-plus, so it's only an option if you're turning the holiday into a date night.

More Fun Things To Do on the Fourth of July in NYC

You can also take the kids to some pre-bedtime fun on the holiday, including the Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on Coney Island! Check our NYC Family Activity Calendar for more happenings in NYC on Friday, July 4, 2025.

A version of this post was published in 2018; it is updated annually.