The Rundown on Macy’s 2025 Fireworks Location & Schedule

Get ready for a visual spectacle like never before. This year’s Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks show is going bigger, louder, and brighter. With 80,000 shells set to explode high above the Brooklyn Bridge and East River, the 2025 edition promises to outshine last year’s display by dazzling 20,000 bursts of color and light.

(Photo by Vivek Kumar on Unsplash)

The 49th edition of Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks will launch from the East River and the Brooklyn Bridge, offering dazzling views across lower Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.

This year’s celebration is significant as New York City marks 400 years since its founding. The city expects massive crowds, clear skies, and a celebration that’s both festive and deeply symbolic.

(Photo by KENA BETANCUR/AFP via Getty Images)

“Each year, this dazzling display lights up our skyline, boosts our economy, and brings vital support to local businesses,” said Mayor Eric Adams in an official press release.

“As we celebrate 400 years since New York City’s founding, we’re thrilled to welcome the crowds, once again, to experience an unforgettable Independence Day at our world-famous Brooklyn Bridge and East River skyline!”

When Do the NYC 4th of July Fireworks Start?

The fireworks are scheduled to begin at 9:25 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, July 4, about an hour after sunset. The show will last approximately 30 minutes, concluding just before 10 p.m. Eastern Time.

Entry into ticketed viewing zones is allowed from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Late arrivals will not be admitted, so plan ahead.

Where Are the Fireworks Launching From in 2025?

Fireworks will launch from the Brooklyn Bridge, and four barges will be positioned in the East River, specifically off Piers 16 and 17 in Manhattan’s Seaport District.

“This year’s Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks show, set against the city skyline and on the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, is set to deliver an unforgettable night for millions nationwide,” said Will Coss, executive director of Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks.

According to a report in ABCNY, the 25-minute fireworks spectacular will unfold to a dynamic soundtrack curated by music legends Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson and James Poyser. Leading the celebration is Broadway powerhouse Ariana DeBose, returning to the spotlight after hosting the Tony Awards three times.

Best Public Viewing Spots in Manhattan and Brooklyn

Macy’s says the show can be seen anywhere with an unobstructed view of the sky above the Lower East River.

That includes several designated areas with controlled access and security. Recommended Manhattan viewing access points include:

Montgomery Street at Madison Street on the Lower East Side
Robert F. Wagner Sr. Place near the Brooklyn Bridge ramps
Broad Street at Water Street

ADA-accessible viewing will be available at the Murry Bergtraum Softball Field, with access at Pike Slip and Cherry Street.

However, some locations are not recommended for viewing due to limited visibility:
Midtown FDR Drive
The Battery
Battery Park City
East River Park
Roosevelt Island
Governors Island
Gantry Plaza State Park
Hunter’s Point South Waterfront Park

What If You Have Tickets?

The city released 100,000 free tickets for prime viewing areas in Brooklyn Bridge Park and the Seaport District. Each zone includes specific access points and security screening areas:

(Photo by Stephanie Keith/Getty Images)

Brooklyn ticketed zones are divided into four areas:
Zone 1 – Enter at Prospect and Old Fulton Streets; screening at New Dock and Water Streets.
Zone 2 – Enter at Prospect and Old Fulton Streets; screening at Old Fulton and Furman Streets.
Zone 3 – Enter at Hicks and Joralemon streets; screening will be conducted at Joralemon Street, Bridge Park Drive, and Furman Street.
Zone 4 – Enter at Columbia Street and Atlantic Avenue; screening will take place at Bridge Park Drive and Atlantic Avenue.

In Manhattan:
Location – North side of Pier 17 and lower part of Pier 16.
Entry – John and Water Streets.
Screening – South Street between the piers.

However, the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks show is entirely free to attend, and no tickets are required to enjoy the display. While there may be events or venues claiming to offer ticketed access or VIP viewing, Macy’s is not affiliated with these and does not sell tickets or partner with any organizers promoting paid entry.

According to Macy’s official fireworks website, you can watch the fireworks from one of the numerous public viewing areas available throughout the city.

Getting There: Expect Closures, Use Public Transit

City officials advise spectators to avoid driving due to limited parking and heavy traffic. The MTA will offer increased subway and bus service before and after the event. The NYPD will also enforce road closures near viewing zones.

What Not to Carry

Security will be tight, and all bags are subject to search. The following items are not allowed in any designated viewing area:

Alcohol is prohibited.
Backpacks, duffle bags, and other large bags are not allowed.
Blankets and lawn chairs are not permitted.
Drones are banned.
Large coolers and oversized packages are not allowed.
Cigarettes and e-cigarettes are prohibited.
Motorized scooters are not permitted.
Umbrellas are not allowed.
Weapons of any kind are strictly banned.

Other NYC Fireworks Displays This Weekend

While Macy’s is the main event, other NYC neighborhoods are celebrating, too:

Coney Island Beach: July 4, from 9 to 9:30 p.m.
Breezy Point, Queens: July 5, from 8 to 8:20 p.m.

Whether you’re heading to the Brooklyn Bridge or the Seaport, this year’s Macy’s fireworks show promises a sky full of color, a city full of pride, and a celebration to remember.

The post The Rundown on Macy’s 2025 Fireworks Location & Schedule appeared first on EntertainmentNow.