The 4th of July is a wonderful time to be in the US as the country goes into festival mode to mark Independence Day, and New York in particular is the place to travel to for the ultimate celebration.
Americans across the country look forward to the public holiday every year, planning a host of parades, parties, fireworks displays, barbecues and much more to honor the moment the US broke free from British rule. in 1776.
In New York, revelers look forward to the biggest fireworks show in the country: the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks.
Tens of thousands of fireworks soar over the Hudson River in an unforgettable spectacle that is sure to be even more impressive in 2011, as the show has been designed by renowned graffiti artist Mr Totem.
The 25-minute exhibit will feature a mix of patriotic classics, like Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America, and current pop hits from artists like Jennifer Hudson, Katy Perry and Everclear to cater to attendees of all ages. .
If you’re looking for the best spot to watch the action, you should head to 12th Avenue below 59th Street, though anywhere you can see the sky over the river without something blocking your view is a great place to be!
However, you won’t be able to see the show from most of the Hudson River, East River, Battery Park City, Battery Park, and portions of the Hudson River Park Bike Trail and Boardwalk.
As you might expect, hotels in New York fill up quickly before the event, so be sure to book your room as soon as you’ve confirmed your flights to the city to avoid running out of accommodations in a prime location.
Another event you might want to see as part of your Independence Day celebrations is the 4th of July Hot Dog Eating Contest at Nathan’s in Coney Island, Brooklyn.
The annual competition, which dates back to 1916, has contestants try to consume as many hot dogs as possible in a ten-minute period, without even stopping for a drink.
It’s a bit of an odd way to celebrate Independence Day, but one of the most popular in New York. Passers-by can’t help but be drawn to the fun and you can even see it on TV.
