

Fourth of July Survival Guide
July 2, 2014 - 2:16 pm by Hunter Weaver-Daniel
To most, the Fourth of July equals fireworks, BBQs, beaches, picnics and festivities galore, but with all the commotion that Independence Day brings, finding the right event that fits your taste can be such a headache. Well, relax. Celebrate sans stress. Break out the sunblock and check out the events you'll be mad you missed this Fourth of July.
Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks
Can you even imagine the Fourth of July without fireworks? Macy's is going to take your pyrotechnics to the next level with its Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks. Macy’s will set off more than 40,000 fireworks arranged to a 25-minute patriotic score in celebration of America near the Brooklyn Bridge.
But, we couldn’t just leave you without a vivid view of the show. Here is a list of the best viewing locations thanks to Time Out New York:
Broad Street and/or Old Slip at Water Street, Brooklyn Bridge entry from St. James Place (Pearl Street) & Wagner Place, Montgomery & South Streets: From the north (viewing along the FDR between Manhattan Bridge and Montgomery Street, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn Bridge Promenade
4th of July Endless Summer BBQ at YOTEL 2014
Unlimited barbecue and drinks! One of the sexiest hotels in NYC, YOTEL, is offering up a plate of all you can eat and drink to accompany some beautiful terrace scenery. If you're looking for fun times on the fourth, look no further than this hot spot. Tickets are available here.
4th of July at Sky Room
New York City’s highest rooftop lounge is welcoming all for its Fourth of July festivities. Sky Room provides a dazzling view of the fireworks from its five terraces. With an open bar, picnic-themed snacks and the best burlesque dancers around, your Fourth of July will come accompanied with some great memories.
Get tickets here.
Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest
Got a competitive love for food? Check out the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. This competition draws in flocks of spectators each year and is nearly a century-old tradition. Last years winner took the cake—or should we say, hotdog?—by eating 54 dogs in 10 minutes. This tasty tradition is great for all ages.
Second Annual Fourth of July Beach Party
The essentials of Independence Day are all here—live music, drinks, food, fireworks and a Coney Island beach view. The Second Annual Fourth of July Beach Party starts at 9am and goes till midnight. Grab all your friends and enjoy this free fiesta!
The Liberty Belle Extravaganza
For a vintage-style Independence Day The Salon, Wit's End and Champagne Riot team up for a blowout. The Liberty Belle Extravaganza will be held on two separate rooftops. The downtown affair featuring saucy musical acts will be hosted by Albert Cadabra at the DL, while musical delights come courtesy of Gelber & Manning and the Star-Spangled Orchestra, Dandy Wellington & His Band, Jack Grace Band and The Grand St. Stompers.
Get more info here.
Fourth of July Pig Roast
BBQ can cure more than a hunger. Iron Horse and the Wounded Warrior Project team up for its fourth annual pig roast. This Fourth of July Pig Roast is fund-raising picnic to support and rehabilitate injured service members. Wiffle ball, Twister and other games will be available for your enjoyment and of course free burgers, hot dogs, rotisserie hog and sides. A portion of proceeds will go to the nonprofit. For more info click here.
Photo Credits: acordova/ Yana Paskova/Getty Images Michael Nagle/Getty Images/ Jena Cumbo / Time Out New York