Coney Island Independence Day Party: Coney Island is one of the best places to celebrate the Fourth of July. Party all day with live music, drinks and fireworks on the beach. Don’t miss riding the Cyclone, the historic wooden roller coaster from 1927. Coney Island is open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.. Lifeguards are on duty through most of the day. The island is a quick subway ride from Manhattan. Visit www.coneyisland.com for more information.
Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest: While you’re at Coney Island, don’t miss the 100th Anniversary of Nathan’s Famous Hot dogs at the annual hot dog eating contest. The original Nathan’s restaurant is at the corner of Surf and Stillwell Streets, where thousands will gather to watch the competition. Current champions Matt Stonie and Miki Sudo will make appearances and compete against Joey Chestnut and Sonya Thomas. The contest kicks off at 10 a.m. with the women’s competition at 11 and the men’s at 12:40. For more information, visit www.nathansfamous.com.
Red, White and Brew Pub Crawl: Every year, the East Village celebrates America’s Independence with an annual pub crawl. The evening starts at Bar None but many area bars are offering incredible drink specials. Grab American drafts for only $2! The crawl takes place on both July 2 and July 4. Tickets for each individual day is $3 or $5 for a two day all access pass. Register at Bar None at 98 3rd Avenue from 3-9 p.m. on Saturday and 5-9 on Monday. Visit pubcrawls.com/events/july4/red-white-and-brew-pub-crawl-nyc.php to purchase tickets.
Revolutionary New York Walking Tour: Big Onion Walking Tours offers a tour of Revolutionary War era landmarks in NYC. Previous years have toured Alexander Hamilton’s grave and the Fraunces Tavern, where a British cannonball hit the roof in 1775. Tours are $23 and leave at 10 a.m., noon and 1 p.m. from Broadway and Murray Street. Visit http://www.nyctourist.com/revolutionary-manhattan-walking-tours for more information.
Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular: NYC’s fireworks are always spectacular. Set off from barges on the East River on July 4, the pyrotechnic show can been seen anywhere around the East River in Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn. The show is accompanied by a patriotic musical score. The display is completely free.
