Where to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks in Brooklyn (2017 Edition)

Fourth of July is nearly here, and Brooklyn is preparing for barbecues, parades, and patriotic revelry. But what Fourth of July is complete without fireworks? Here’s a guide to where to view them in Brooklyn this year.

Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks, the biggest Fourth of July display in the country, is returning to the East River for its 41st year.

This year’s 25-minute-long show will be launched from five barges just south of the Queens Midtown Tunnel.

The East River location is a major win for Brooklyn again — but you’ll need to strategize if you want an Instagram-worthy view. Even though the July 4 spectacle kicks off at 9:25 p.m. on Tuesday, you’ll need to arrive a few hours early if you want a front-row seat.

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Grand Ferry Park (Williamsburg)
This year all the action is north of the Williamsburg Bridge. But don’t let the crowds keep you at home. A former ferry landing, this picturesque Williamsburg park will give you room to stretch out. We recommend you go there before lunch to snag a waterfront bench (try not to tell too many people about it).

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East River State Park (Williamsburg)
This seven-acre park surrounded by Williamsburg high-rises will likely be the go-to spot for North Brooklyn, with its front-seat views of the fireworks. Make sure to get there early, and bring a picnic.

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A Friend’s Roof (Nabe Will Vary)
Too agoraphobic to deal with the crowds? Start texting everyone you know in north Brooklyn. Williamsburg and Greenpoint will both have stellar views of the display. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to (smugly) watch the fireworks from your friend’s roof.

Sunset Park (Sunset Park)
Sunset Park — the actual park, in the nabe of the same name — is nowhere near the Macy’s fireworks, but it’s the second highest point in Brooklyn, so you’ll have views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. You probably won’t be alone, but the view is worth camping out for. Bonus: Sunset Park is one of Brooklyn’s great foodie neighborhoods. Fortify yourself with dim sum and/or tacos ahead of the show. (Relevant based on the elevation, also not that close to the fireworks, which is mentioned.)

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Coney Island Fireworks (Luna Park)
Full disclosure: You won’t be able to see the Macy’s show from Coney Island, but you will be able to see the Coney Island Fireworks, eat an alarming amount of Nathan’s hot dogs, and go swimming. Admittedly, the pyrotechnics are much more low-key — but the beach view makes up for the reduced firepower. The show will take place at 9:30 p.m.

Editor’s note: This is an update of a previously published post.

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