July 4th Events
Celebrate the nation's independence without leaving Manhattan
This July 4th weekend, you can stay close to home and still have a blast. We've compiled a list of local events - some family-friendly, some adult-centric - so you can celebrate with your neighbors.
East Side Barbeque
Fri Jul 4, 1 ? 6 p.m.
Riverpark
450 East 29th Street @ First Avenue
Enjoy a community-based barbeque on the East River at Riverpark this year. The party includes live music and activities for kids including bocce ball and Ping-Pong. Enjoy red, white, and blue sangria, or choose from a large selection from local breweries.
Liberty Belle Extravaganza
Fri Jul 4, 5 p.m.
Empire Hotel Rooftop
44 W. 63rd Street @ 9th Avenue
The Empire Hotel Rooftop hosts an annual vintage themed party at its Upper West Side location. You can enjoy lots of live entertainment including several DJs, a burlesque show, and musical performances. Doors open at 5 p.m.
Independence Day Show for Kids
Fri Jul 4, 11:30 a.m. ? 2:30 p.m.
New York Historical Society
170 Central Park West btwn 76th and 77th Streets
Bring your kids over to the Historical Society this year for an interactive way of learning about the founding of our country. Members from the Hudson River Ramblers will be dressed in 18th century style clothing, and educate kids about the Revolution with performances, story telling, and music.
4th of July at Sky Room
Fri Jul 4, 6 p.m.
Sky Room
330 W. 40th Street @ 9th Avenue
If you want to get a little dressed up this Independence Day, we suggest going to the Sky Room 4th of July Party. It is a ticketed event so you can avoid an overcrowded bar scene. Purchase tickets on their website www.skyroomtickets.com.
Independence Day Festival
Fri Jul 4 ? Sunday Jul 6
Children's Museum of Manhattan
212 W. 83rd St.
10 a.m.
Another great way to celebrate Independence Day with your family is with daylong festival at the Children's Museum of Manhattan. Head over to the kid friendly museum over the weekend and take part in flag themed painting classes and a Lady Liberty sculpture workshop.
Fourth of July Bash
Fri Jul 4, 6 p.m.
Wichcraft, Chelsea Piers
Enjoy the delicious food from the popular sandwich shop with an open bar before the fireworks this year. After the good food and drinks you can walk over to Pier 62 and have access to a reserved spot to watch the show. The menu will feature items like lobster rolls, grilled corn salad, seasonal berry pies, and sliders.
Pig Roast at Iron Horse
Fri Jul 4, 12 p.m.
32 Cliff Street
If you're looking for a traditional pig roast, head over to the Iron Horse in the Financial District. They will be closing down Cliff Street and setting up picnic tables, giving away free hot dogs and burgers. Though it's a free event, they are asking people to donate to The Wonded Warrier Fund.
Historical Walk Through New York
Fri Jul 4, 3 a.m.
Fraunces Tavern Museum
54 Pearl Street @ Broad Street
Experience New York in a way very few people have by taking the Annual Revolutionary War nighttime walking tour. Starting at 3 a.m., you walk through the history of New York's importance in the Revolutionary War. Celebrate our independence with a new look at our city.
Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular Cruise
Pier 40, 5 p.m.
The best place to watch the fireworks is from the water, and you can enjoy a party cruise with food, and an open bar. This cruise leaves from Pier 40 off of West Street, and will float around the East River with music, food, and drinks. You can get tickets at www.hornblower.com.
The Little Mermaid
Sat Jul 5, 2 p.m.
Galli's Fairtytale Theater
347 West 36th Street btwn 8th and 9th Avenues
Since 4th of July lands on a Friday this year, you can continue your celebration over the weekend. Take the kids to see this live performance of Disney's The Little Mermaid at the Fairytale Theater downtown.