Get ready to sport your red, white and blue garb as America booms from coast to coast with July 4th fireworks this week.
All around the Northeast, mesmerizing displays of bursting sound and color will rocket off into the night.
These are some of our favorites. Stake out a spot and watch the evening sky light up!
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Fireworks start time: 8 p.m., July 4.
Price: Free
Returning to the East River for its 47th anniversary, Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks show promises to be just as spectacular as ever. This year, watch from home on NBC, streaming on Peacock or in-person in NYC. Folks on the shorelines of Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens can expect dazzling lights, fantastic colors and – of course – very big bangs. The show will honor America’s everyday heroes and feature music from vocalists, a military band and more. Elevated portions along FDR Drive have some of the best uninterrupted views. Check out this year’s barge map to scope out the perfect spot.
July 4th Fireworks Spectacular at Jones Beach
Fireworks start time: 9:30 p.m., July 4.
Price: Free parking starting at 5:30 p.m. in the visitor and “P” lots under the Empire State Plaza, Grand Street and Elk Street lots. Parking is $10 before 5:30 p.m.
If you’re looking to escape the busy Big Apple streets, Long Island has plenty of patriotic spirit! The July 4th fireworks display at Jones Beach State Park is bound to excite. Long Islanders can expect a dazzling 30-minute display. Nestle your toes in the sand and watch the night sky transform into an array of colors. As the fireworks burst and explode above the shore, patriotic music will help set the mood and celebrate the holiday. Get there early to avoid traffic and find a prime viewing location on the Field 4 beachfront (although any spot will likely have a great view).
New Jersey
Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza at Seaside Heights
Fireworks start time: 9:30 p.m., July 4.
Price: Free fireworks. (Seaside Heights parking, game and ticket prices vary.)
If you’re looking for a fun-filled 4th of July in the Jersey area, then take a trip to Seaside Heights. After a day spent relaxing at the shore, the July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza will dazzle over the oceanfront. Great views can be found anywhere on the Seaside Heights Boardwalk. Just remember, while the fireworks show is free, snacks, beach badges and other sunny-day activities will cost you. Plan accordingly.
Jersey City’s Fourth of July Festival and Concert
Fireworks start time: 9:30, July 4.
Price: Free
Get ready for good vibes and fireworks over the Hudson River in Jersey City! Fireworks will be launching from two barges located in the middle of the Hudson River, filling the sky with dazzling bursts of color with the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop. Spectators can see the show from both New Jersey and New York waterfronts. Top viewing spots will be along the Hudson River Walkway, from the north field at Liberty State Park and most overlook areas in The Heights. Parking is limited, so festival visitors are encouraged to arrive by foot, bike or public transportation.
Massachusetts
Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
Fireworks start time: 10:30 p.m., July 4. Concert starts at 8 p.m.
Price: Free
After a three-year hiatus, the beloved Independence Day tradition returns to the Hatch Shell on the Charles River Esplanade. Conducted by Keith Lockhart, the Boston Pops will put on star-spangled show that’s sure to be unforgettable. Guest artists will also be performing before a dazzling display of over 10,000 fireworks shoots into the night sky. Grab your spot early! This year’s much-anticipated event is sure to draw a crowd.
Gloucester Harbor Fireworks Display
Fireworks start time: 9:30 p.m., July 3.
Price: Free
Get ready to see a flurry of fireworks go off above Gloucester Harbor. Visitors are welcome to set up chairs and blankets along the water and enjoy the show. The Fishtown Horribles Parade takes place on the same day, starting at 6 p.m. at Gloucester High School.
Rhode Island
City of East Providence’s Independence Day Celebration
Fireworks start time: 9:30 p.m., July 3. Gate opens at 5 p.m. Rain date July 5.
Price: Free
This July 4th fireworks display kicks off at Pierce Memorial Field with live performances by local musicians.
Fireworks start time: 9:30 p.m., July 3.
Price: Free
Head to the town of Bristol to experience what they call “America’s oldest Fourth of July celebration.” First held in 1785, the well-loved tradition is still going strong. The fun starts in mid-June and features a list of events including fundraisers, contests and a concert series. The fireworks show over Bristol Harbor on July 3 is a highlight, followed by the annual Military, Civic and Firemen’s Parade on July 4.
Connecticut
New Britain’s Great American Boom
Fireworks start time: 9:15 p.m., July 4. Rain date July 5.
Price: $10 per car parking placard.
Come to Willow Brook Park for New Britain’s Great American Boom. Pre-registration is required for the “drive-in style” show. A DJ dance party, novelties and concessions are also planned. The parking lot opens at 7:00 p.m. and closes at 9 p.m.
Fairfield Independence Day Firework Show
Fireworks start time: 9:15 p.m., July 1.
Price: Season Beach Sticker or daily pass. ($50 per vehicle. Credit card only.)
Watch an exciting Grucci firework display from Penfield and Jennings beaches in Fairfield, Conn. The fireworks will start just after dark from a barge on the Long Island Sound. Local radio stations will be providing music and entertainment beforehand.
New Hampshire
Fireworks start time: 10 p.m., July 4.
Price: Free fireworks. (Carnival game and ride prices vary.)
If you’re looking for one of the biggest Independence Day celebrations in New Hampshire, Gorham’s Fourth of July event takes the cake. From June 29 through July 4, there are several parades, a classic car show, a carnival, concerts and more. It all leads up to a July 4th fireworks display that will take your breath away.
Merrimack Fourth of July Celebrations
Fireworks start time: 9:15 p.m., July 4. Rain date July 5.
Price: Free fireworks. (Other event prices vary.)
July 4th is an all-day affair in Merrimack. Early birds can start celebrating the holiday at 8 a.m. and participate in the Sparkler 5K Road Race. If you’re not one for sports, you can enjoy the July 4th pancake breakfast at 8 a.m., followed by parade at 1 p.m. Bands, military units, clowns, businesses and locals will all gather (rain or shine) to celebrate the holiday. Then, at 9 p.m., get ready for the main event when the Merrimack High School field will light up with a first-class fireworks display. Get there early and snag a spot on the lawn for the best views.
No matter what state you’re in or where you’re headed, be sure to have a safe and happy holiday weekend.
Where are some of your favorite spots to view July 4th fireworks? Tell us in the comments!
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On your “Fireworks Fast Facts” poster, I thought I had remembered a lot of elements of the periodic table from JHS but was unfamiliar with Ai with an atomic number of 13. It should be Al, aluminum?
What about Maine? That state is part of the NorthEast. 🙂
Fantastic information thank you
For someone wheelchair bound and unable to go to regular public spots, is there somewhere near North Babylon, Long Island where we can view the fireworks from Jones Beach or anywhere near by where we can just sit in the car and enjoy? Thanks for your help.
Palisades Amusement Park was a favorite in the 1950’s
Old Orchard Beach, Maine has great fireworks. You didn’t mention the state of Maine in your article!
I’m in Morris county area, are there any places here that’s havin fireworks??
Hi Rita and thanks for reading Your AAA Network! I found a handy guide to fireworks in your area, which you can find here: https://patch.com/new-jersey/morristown/fireworks-near-me-morristowns-4th-july-2021-0. Have a great Independence Day weekend and thanks again.
Morristown usually has great fireworks
Not sure tho since COVID
Where in the MidHudson Valley NY can one see fireworks???