Celebrating Independence Day in Queens, New York

Each year, Macy's Herald Square celebrates the birth of the United States with a brilliant firework show set against the Manhattan skyline. While the exact location changes from year to year, shows always take place along either the East River or Hudson River, and typically are visible from any of New York City's five boroughs (as well as Jersey City).

The Macy's July 4 Fireworks show has not been announced for this year but should be visible from western Queens. The Long Island City waterfront has hosted the barges for fireworks in years past, so be sure to check the Macy's official website before the holiday to check out the exact location of this year's event. You might have to head to Brooklyn to get a better view if it's closer to the Brooklyn Bridge, like it was in 2017.

One of the earliest celebrations of the holiday will take place on Thursday, June 28, 2018, at Astoria Park in western Queens. Featuring live music by the Patriot Brass Ensemble, the event will kick off at 7:30 p.m. with the Grucci firework show starting around 9:40 p.m. Hosted by the ​Central Astoria Development Corporation and sponsored by organizations like National Public Radio (NPR), Dunkin' Donuts, and Mount Sinai Queens, this annual event is a great way to get an early start to your holiday weekend.

Located in northeastern Queens, Fort Totten is one of the borough's largest parks, and each year, the parade grounds in Fort Totten park host an evening event to celebrate the birth of America. Organized by Northeast Queens Parks, the event this year will take place on June 27 and feature a live concert followed by a fireworks show. The concert starts at 6 p.m. and fireworks are expected to last from around 9:30 to 10 p.m. While free to attend, there may be food vendors on site with meals for sale, and guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to view the fireworks more comfortably from the Parade Grounds. 

Also located in northeastern Queens, Corona Park in Flushing Meadows hosts an annual event each Independence Day called Omar's Fourth of July Block Party. Hosted by Omar Olusion and featuring live DJ music, dance contests, games, magic shows, local food and beverages, and plenty of amusement for guests of all ages, Omar's Block Party will take place from 2 to 6 p.m. near Fantasy Forest Amusement Park. Admission is free but enjoying the attractions at the amusement park will cost a small fee per ride.