On-Hudson.com

West Side Recommended Viewing Area For 4th Of July FireWorks Display

West Side Fireworks! Saturday, July 4, beginning at 9:20 p.m.   In case you haven't heard, the Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks will be on the West Side this year!  The fireworks will launch from barges in the Hudson River south of 50th Street south to 23rd Street.    For maximum enjoyment, the recommended viewing area for the fireworks display is between 23rd and 57th Streets along the West Side Highway.  Other viewing locations will include the West Side Highway which will be closed to traffic south of 96th Street.  Pedestrians can access the highway at 72nd and 79th Streets.   Riverside Park will be open, however, good viewing locations are limited & the NYPD will limit capacity for safety.   Happy Independence Day!

Riverside Insider ·  212-870-3070 · www.riversideparkfund.org

This communication is generously sponsored by The Apthorp historic condominium residences at 390 West End Avenue.

4th Of July Spectacular New-York City Guide

http://www.nydailynews.com/lifestyle/2009/07/02/2009-07-02_go_fourth_and_enjoy_your_ultimate_guide_for_things_to_do_in_nyc_on_independence_.html

Go Fourth and enjoy! Your ultimate guide for things to do in NYC on Independence Day

ISSIE LAPOWSKY,AMY EISINGER PATTY LEE

Evans/AP

Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks cap off Independence Day in New York - but there's a lot of fun to be had before dusk rolls around.

Xanthos for News

The George Washington Bridge and falcons are scenic highlights at the Little Red Lighthouse.

Paint the town red, white and blue this Fourth of July at one of the city’s many festivals, parks, grill spots or rooftops! Wake up early, stay up late and enjoy your right to freedom on a day that boasts a full schedule of American fun.

With so many options to choose from, it’s time to party like a true patriot.

MORNING

ROW YOUR BOAT.Soak up some sun as you paddle around in your own kayak, courtesy of the Downtown Boathouse. Attendees can explore the Hudson Riverfor free. All you need is to know how to swim. (10 a.m., free admission; 72nd St. & Hudson River, 212-408-0219.)

RELIVE HISTORY.Test your knowledge of America’s past at the New-York Historical Society. Learn what life was like for soldiers in the American Revolution, listen to songs by storyteller Jonathan Kruk and enjoy fun-filled arts and crafts all day long. Those who wear red, white and blue will receive free admission. Patriotically dressed visitors can also take up to 20% off regularly priced merchandise at the Museum Store. (10 a.m.; 170 Central ParkWest, between 76th and 77th Sts., 212-873-3400.)

CELEBRATION BY THE SEA.More than a million people are expected at this year’s Great July Fourth Festival at the South Street Seaport. While enjoying the 100 cultural exhibits on display, you can chow down on some tasty treats served up by more than 600 international food vendors. (11 a.m., free admission; Water St., between Fulton and Broad Sts., 212-809-4900.)

ALL-AMERICAN ART.Cool off from summer heat at the Whitney Museum of American Art, which is offering a special Independence Day admission of just $4. Visitors can take in iconic patriotic art like Jasper Johns’ “Three Flags” and Joseph Stella’s “Brooklyn Bridge.” Some of the museum’s other exhibits feature works by Dan Graham, Mark Rothko and Andrew Wyeth. (11 a.m., $4; 945 Madison Ave., at 75th St., www.whitney.org.)

TIME TRAVELER.Don’t miss all the old-fashioned fun at Staten Island’s Historic Richmond Town. Complete with a parade, homemade eats and arts and crafts, these family-friendly festivities are an ideal way to celebrate the 233rd anniversary of our nation’s independence. (11 a.m., $3.50-$5; 441 Clarke Ave., Staten Island, 718-351-1611.)

TENEMENT TOUR.Celebrate the country’s diverse cultural history at the lower East Side’s Tenement Museum. Learn about the nation’s immigrant ancestry as you explore the places and spaces in which they lived. (11 a.m., $13-$17; 108 Orchard St., at Delancey St. www.tenement.org.)

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FEELING PATRIOTIC. The American flag decor and country music blaring from the jukebox at the Patriot Saloon are sure to put you in an All-American mood this Independence Day. The bar opens early and closes late, so stop by anytime morning, noon or night. Dancing on the bar is encouraged, ladies, just don’t forget those cowboy boots. (11:30 a.m., free admission; 110 Chambers St., at Church St. 212-748-1162.)

AFTERNOON

JAZZ IN JULY. Rumor has it Louis Armstrong used to celebrate his birthday on the Fourth of July. Lucky for you, that means the Louis Armstrong House Museum is hosting a special Independence Day event. Enjoy some classic American jazz performed by the Red Hook Ramblers as you tour the museum’s recent exhibit of Satchmo’s own collages. (Noon, $6-$8; 34-56 107th St., Queens, 718-478-8274.)

CELEBRATE HISTORY. Grill with a view at  Fort Washington Park, home to the Little Red Lighthouse, one of the city’s most famous Revolutionary War structures. The park is also a prime location for spotting peregrine falcons. See how many you can find at the barbecue area north of West 158th St. on the Hudson River. (Free admission; Riverside Dr. and West 155th St., www.nycgovparks.com.)

BBQ AT THE BEACH. Eat by the sea at Brooklyn’s Manhattan Beach. There are two spots for grilling at this popular summertime destination — one at Oriental Blvd. and Hastings St. and another next to the parking lot. (Free admission. East of Ocean Ave. at the North Shore Rockaway Inlet, Brooklyn. www.nycgovparks.org.)

REVOLUTIONARY NYC.

Wander around lower Manhattan and learn about the places related to our nation’s independence. Stops include Federal Hall, Alexander Hamilton’s grave and sites associated with George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. (1 p.m.; $12-$15. Broadway and Murray St. at City Hall Park. www.bigonion.com.)

SIGN YOUR JOHN HANCOCK. Teach the kids about the days of independence at the Lefferts Historic House in Prospect Park. Children can make their own 18th-century-style hats and sign a reproduction of the Declaration of Independence. Better yet, the event is free! (1 p.m.; Flatbush Ave. at Empire Blvd., Brooklyn. 718-789-2822.)

LET THE GAMES BEGIN. For a nearby island escape, head over to Randall’s Island. Scenic waterfront views and fantastic sports facilities are just two of many reasons to spend time in the park. The island, which rests between Manhattan, Queens and the Bronx, once served as home base for Olympic trials. Find the grills at the far end of the Sunken Meadows ballfields. (Free admission. 212-830-7722.)

A STADIUM AND A BOWL.Enjoy the country’s most beloved sport as the Yanks face the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium. July 4 is also Ice Cream Bowl Day at the ballpark, so the first 18,000 fans 14 years old or younger get a treat courtesy of Turkey Hill. (1:05 p.m.; $90-$2,625. 1 E. 161st St., the Bronx. 718-293-4300.)

HONOR THE VETS.Dine next to the Atlantic Ocean at Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk and Beach on Staten Island. Its boardwalk is home to the Midland Beach War Memorial, where beachgoers can pay tribute to Staten Island war veterans. Find the grills at Midland and Lincoln Aves.  (Free admission. Fort Wadsworth to Miller Field. www.nycgovparks.org.)

HOLIDAY WITH HUDSON.It’s been 400 years since Henry Hudson passed this way. Learn this history at the Museum of the City of New York exhibit “Amsterdam/ New Amsterdam: The Worlds of Henry Hudson.” Explore the origins of New York City as you celebrate the birth of the United States. (10 a.m.; donation suggested. 1220 Fifth Ave., at 103rd St. 212-534-1672.)

WASHINGTON STEPPED HERE. Follow in the footsteps of some of our country’s leaders with a pre-fireworks presidential walking tour. Wander through Gramercy Park and Greenwich Village to sites associated with Abraham Lincoln, JFK, Teddy Roosevelt and more. The tour passes important monuments, like the Washington Square Arch, and ends at the West Side Highway, where you can grab a seat for the evening fireworks. (2:30 p.m.; $16.Meeting place announced with reservation. 212-465-3331.)

RHAPSODY IN RED, WHITE AND BLUE.Join the New York Philharmonic at Avery Fisher Hall for one of its Summertime Classics performances. The “Born on the Fourth of July” lineup features renowned works by Gershwin and Copland, led by conductor Bramwell Tovey. (3 p.m.; $24-$54. Lincoln Center. 212-875-5656.)

ROCK OUT DOWNTOWN.Bring a blanket and head to Battery Park to hear Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band. The folk-rocker released his most recent album, “Outer South,” in May to plenty of critical praise. Indie singer Jenny Lewis opens. (3:30 p.m.; free admission. Battery Park. www.rivertorivernyc.com.)

NIGHT

LIGHTS ON THE WATER.Hop aboard a New York Waterway cruise for a spectacular view of the fireworks on the Hudson. The boat features a radio broadcast of an original musical score for the light show, plus snacks for purchase and a cash bar.6 p.m.; $75. Various departure points in New Jerseyand Manhattan.www.nywaterway.com.

CELEBRATE IN STYLE.The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Times Square is teaming up with Brasserie 1605 and chefs Ron Periconeand Chris Smithfor a Fourth of July lounge event. Enjoy drinks and barbecue, followed by a rooftop viewing, 47 floors up, of the fireworks. (7:30 p.m.; $200. 1605 Broadway. 212-977-4000.)

BRING YOUR OWN BBQ.Want an untraditional barbecue experience? East River Bar offers BYOBBQ (Bring Your Own BBQ) with a real barrel drum barbecue pit. Sit back, relax and people-watch from the bar’s 1,000-square-foot patio. (5 p.m.; price varies with size of party. 97 S. Sixth St., Brooklyn. 718-302-0511.)

PARTY WITH PRIDE.Celebrate America’s 233rd birthday at Studio B’s Fourth of July blowout in Brooklyn. There’ll be three floors of nonstop dancing courtesy of deejays Mark Farina, Heidi and more. Also, enjoy 2-for-1 drinks between 8 and 10 p.m. and free barbecue on the Studio’s open-air rooftop. (8 p.m.; $20-$25. 259 Banker St. 718-389-1880.)

RAISE THE ROOF.Celebrate the weird and wacky side of America with Rooftop Films at the Chelsea Museum. The sunset party features an open bar, live music, a series of short films and a fantastic view of the fireworks. (6 p.m.; $40. 556 W. 22nd St. www.rooftopfilms.com.)

IT’S NO TEA PARTY.Celebrate the way our Founding Fathers likely did — in a pub. Join the Spirits of ’76 American Revolution Pub Crawl to learn all about the role that alcohol played in New York City’s history. The ticket price includes a pint at each of the historic pubs you’ll visit during this three-hour walking tour. But leave the kids at home — it’s for those 21 and older only. (6 p.m.; $60. Dutch flagpole in BatteryPark, near State. St. and Broadway. www.unclesamsnewyork.com.)

THE LATEST SHOW ON EARTH.Since the fireworks won’t last all night,Webster Hall is bringing its own brand of pyrotechnics indoors for the July 4 Circus Spectacular. From acrobats to flame-handlers, the partying patriots underneath the disco ball know how to celebrate Independence Day in style. Remember: You’ve got to be 19 or older to enter. (10 p.m.; $30. 125 E. 11th St. 212-353-1600.)

PEANUTS AND CRACKER JACK.Root forNew York’s other Yankees at Richmond County Bank Ballpark. The Staten Island Yankees will be taking on the Lowell Spinners, a Red Sox Single-A affiliate fromMassachusetts, on their own turf for this Fourth of July game. (7 p.m.; $12-$16. 75 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island. 718-720-9265.)

A ROOF WITH A VIEW.At Hudson Terrace, you can enjoy a three-hour open bar and all the barbecue you can eat while relaxing on one of the city’s most beloved rooftops. It’s located on the West Side, ideal for watching fireworks explode over the Hudson. This is sure to be a holiday hot spot, so call ahead for reservations. (7 p.m.; $100. 621 W. 46th St. 212-315-9400.)

JUST DANCE. Kick back at the Water Taxi Beach Party in Long Island City. Robert Hood, a founding father of the Detroit dance-music scene, will share the stage with the beach’s resident deejays. Sip beer, chow down on a hamburger and enjoy an amazing view of the Manhattan skyline in between all the dancing. Must be 21 or older. (8 p.m.; $10. Vernon Ave. and Borden Ave., Queens. 212-742-1969.)

CELEBRATE LIBERTY. Liberty State Park, on the Hudson in Jersey City, has its own fireworks show. You can catch it from Battery Park or the shores of Staten Island, but if you’d like to watch on-site, get there early — it’s usually filled by midday. The ultimate place to view the fireworks, which are launched from land, is in Green Park, an 88-acre expanse inside the park proper. (About 9 p.m.; free admission. New Yorkers can take the PATH to Exchange Place in Jersey City, then hop the Light Rail to the park. www.libertystatepark.org.)

LATE-NIGHT LEARNING. Stay up and be a part of the seventh annual nighttime walking tour of Revolutionary War New York. Veteran walking-tour guide James Kaplan will lead the adventurous around lower Manhattan and teach about Revolutionary heroes. (2 a.m.; $15. Meeting place announced with reservation. www.frauncestavernmuseum.org.)

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT. With some 40,000 shells, the Macy’s fireworks display hits the Hudson River for the first time since 2000. Set to patriotic music performed by the New York Pops, the fireworks will be launched from six barges positioned between 24th and 50th Sts. About 2 million people are expected to turn out to see the spectacle. (9 p.m.; free admission. 212-494-4495.)

Hudson Valley FireWorks Display Venues July 3 & 4 2009

http://hudsonvalley.metromix.com/events/roundup/fireworks-shows-in-the/1287340/content

Fireworks shows in the Hudson Valley

Where and when to celebrate with a bang

What's a 4th of July celebration without fireworks? No, not the figurative ones you experience during a good makeout. The actual ones that go "Pow!" and "Boom!" and result in massive, colorful flowery patterns in the sky!

Metromix Hudson Valley did its homework and found dozens upon dozens of great places to check out the colorful works of art in the sky.

Baseball and fireworks

Dutchess Stadium - 1500 Route 9D - Wappingers Falls

July 1 : 7:05 p.m.

The Hudson Valley Renegades invite baseball fans to the celebrate the nation's birthday a few days early with the annual "Baby Boomers" game. After the big blasts of the game, there will be even more with a majestic fireworks display at Dutchess Stadium on July 1.

Fireworks

Lake Carmel - Route 52 - Kent

July 4 : 9 p.m.

Fireworks will be filling the air along Route 52 at Lake Carmel in Kent on July 4.

Fireworks

Playland - 1 Playland Pkwy - Rye

July 1 : 9:15 p.m.

How do you make a fun place like Playland even more fun? Throw in some fireworks, of course! The colorful explosions in Rye will be at the pier on July 1, 3 and 4.

Fireworks Display

Louis Engel Waterfront Park - Main Street - Ossining

July 2 : 9:15 p.m.

Get a jump on the celebration! Louis Engel Waterfront Park will host free entertainment and fireworks two nights before the nation's birthday.

Concert and Fireworks

The Gazebo - Central Avenue - Pearl River

July 4 : 7 p.m.

After follow a concert at 7 p.m., fireworks will rock the house at about 9:45. Rain date is July 5 at Pearl River High School.

Concert and Fireworks

Scarsdale Municipal Pool - 311 Mamaroneck Road - Scarsdale area

July 3 : 7:30 p.m.

The fireworks will fill the sky at Scarsdale Municipal Pool to celebrate the holiday at 9:15 p.m. Doors open at 7:30 p.m.

Entertainment and fireworks

White Plains High School - 550 North St. White Plains - White Plains area

July 1 : 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Entertainment, inflatable rides, food and of course fireworks will be a big part of this night out to celebrate the nation's big b-day. Rain date: July 2.

Concert and Fireworks Display

Bowline Point Park - Samsondale Road - Haverstraw

July 2 : 7 p.m.

Following 6 and 8 p.m. concerts starring Good and Plentie and the West Point Jazz Knights, fireworks will rock Nyack at 9:30 p.m. Rain Date: July 3.

Concert and Fireworks

Scolpino Park - Doansburg Road - Southeast

July 4 : 6 p.m.

DJ Sounds headlines the event full of music, refreshments and of course fireworks. Rain date: July 5.

July 4 Fireworks

Dockside Waterfront Park - West Street - Cold Spring

July 4 : 9:15 p.m.

Enjoy music and fireworks at the Cold Spring Riverfront at Dockside Park. Rain date: July 5.

Music Fest and Fireworks

Kensico Dam - Bronx River Parkway - Valhalla

July 3 : 8 p.m.

Before the fireworks fest, the Westchester Philharmonic will rock the house. Gates open at 5 p.m. for picnicking. Sweet!

Pops, Patriots & Fireworks

Caramoor - 149 Girdle Ridge Road - Katonah

July 4 : 8 p.m.

Darius de Haas and Orchestra of St. Luke's will provide the soundtrack to this night of fun and fireworks.

Concert and Fireworks Display

Memorial Park - 53 Piermont Ave. - Nyack-Piermont area

July 4 : 8 p.m.

This fireworks display, which usually has an audience of 3,000 people, will rock its audience with a concert at 8 p.m. at Memorial Park.

July 4th Concert and Fireworks

Riverfront Green Park - Route 9 and Hudson Avenue - Peekskill

July 4 : 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

The Peekskill Fire Department hosts a full night of fun activities, music and fireworks at dusk.

Family Music Festival and Fireworks Display

Nanuet Senior High School - 103 Church St. - Nyack-Piermont area

July 1 : 8 p.m.

The Bronx Wanderers will provide the tunes on a night when fireworks will light up the sky in Nanuet. Rain date for fireworks: July 8.

Annual Firemen's Carnival, Parade and Fireworks

Harbor Island Park - Boston Post Road - Mamaroneck

Daily 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. (ends July 5)

Fireworks at 9 p.m. on July 4 (rain date: July 5) will be a huge highlight of the Firemen's Carnival, a weeklong celebration in Mamaroneck. There'll also be parade on July 1 (rain date: July 2) from Mamaroneck Avenue to Harbor Island Park at 7 p.m.

July 4th "Spark the Sound" Fireworks

Hudson Park Road - Hudson Park Road - New Rochelle

July 4 : 9:30 p.m.

Check out fireworks from all waterfront parks including Five Islands and Davenport to celebrate the 4th in style!

July 4th Celebration

Port Chester High School - 1 Tamarack Road - Port Chester

July 4 : 7:30 p.m.

Celebrate the nation's birthday with enterntainment, fireworks and more by the famous Grucci family at dark.

Summertime Extravaganza

Bronx Street and Consulate Drive - Bronx Street and Consulate Drive - Tuckahoe

July 25 : 5 p.m.

A few hours after the start of the 5 p.m. concert by the NY Sensation Band will be fireworks at about 9:30 p.m. Rain date: July 26.

Star Spangled Spectacular

Trophy Point Amphitheatre - US Military Academy - West Point

July 4 : 8 p.m.

You know fireworks take on special meaning at a place like West Point, where they're bound to have plenty of boom boom pow. This show features the West Point Band performing works by John Philip Sousa as well as other patriotic faves, closing with a performance of Tchaikovskys 1812 Overture featuring fireworks and live cannon.

Fireworks at Mill Pond

Mill Pond - Monroe

July 4 : 8:30 p.m.

Enjoy free fireworks at Mill Pond at dusk.

Newburgh Community Day

Cronomer Hill Park - 214 Gardnertown Road - Newburgh area

July 2 : 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

The Town of Newburgh Community Day will take place at Cronomer Park and will feature games, food, music and fireworks after dusk. Free. For more information please call (845) 564-7815.

Independence Day celebration

Waryas Park - 1 Main St - Poughkeepsie

July 4 : 2 p.m.

The Michael Dell Band will perform from 6 to 9 p.m July 4 followed by fireboat water and laser show and fireworks at dusk. River cruises on the John J. Harvey fireboat July 3 and 4 at 2, 4 and 6 p.m. Donation suggested for river cruise.

Beacon Fireworks Show

Beacon Memorial Park - Wilkes Street - Beacon

July 3 : 9:30 p.m.

Beacon puts on a July 3 fireworks display starting at about 9:30 p.m.

Independence Celebration

Dutchess County Fairgrounds - 6550 Springbrook Ave - Rhinebeck

July 3 : 4 p.m.

On July 3, gates open at 4 a.m., and there will be carnival rides, frog jumping, pony rides anda freestyle motorcycle jumping exhibition as well as a 7 p.m. demolition derby that will befollowed by fireworks.On July 4, gates open at 11 a.m., and there will bepie and watermelon eating contests, a bicycle giveaway, carnival rides, petting zoo and freestyle motorcycle jumping exhibition. The Saturday demolition derby begins at 12:30 p.m. The Hudson Valley Philharmonic will perform at 7:30 p.m. and synch up its1812 Overture with a fireworks display.Carload admission is $40 at the gate and $30 in advance. Walkup admission is $11 per person at the gate and $7 per person in advance. Separate tickets must be purchased to the demolition derby shows at $6 each.

'Holiday Fun' Independence Day celebration

East Fishkill Recreation Park - Routes 376 and 82 - Hopewell Junction

July 4 : 7 p.m.

The "Holiday Fun" Independence Day celebrationon July 4includes a free concert by Adam The Newhearts at 7 p.m. and fireworks at 9:15 p.m.

Independence Day Celebration

Washington's Headquarters - 84 Liberty Street - Newburgh area

July 4 : 8 p.m.

Catch fireworks at dusk on July 4, when Newburgh celebrates on the waterfront. From noon to 5 p.m. at Washington's Headquarters, there will bepicnicking, juggling, magic by Ryan Dutcher and a cappella singing by the Golden Songsters. Grounds will remain open for fireworks viewing.

Amenia Fire Company parade, carnival and fireworks

Amenia Firehouse - 36 Mechanic St. - Amenia

Daily 6:30 p.m. (July 1 through July 4)

At 10 p.m., July 4, fireworks will be the finale of the Amenia Fire Company's four-day carnival that includes carnival rides, a July 3 parade at 7 p.m., and more.

Red, White and Blue Concert in the Park

Felten Park - Modena

July 11 : 5 p.m.

The Red, White and Blue Concert at Felten Park includes a 5 to 9 p.m. music set by Touch of Rhythm, a peace pole dedication at 7:11 p.m., and fireworks at dusk. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. No pets or alcohol allowed.

Fourth of July fireworks and parade

July 4 : 11 a.m.

Saugerties' Fourth of July parade begins at 11 a.m. at Saugerties High School and ends at Cantine Field. Entertainment follows the parade and fireworks will be fired off at dusk.

July 4th FireWorks Viewing Venue Suggestions For Hudson River Display

http://newyork.metromix.com/events/article/new-york-fourth-of/1291595/content

New York Fourth of July fireworks

Parks, bars, restaurants and more places to watch the fireworks in NYC on July 4

 Madeleine Dubus

After debuting on the Hudson River in 1958, the Macy's Fourth of July fireworks celebration will finally venture back to its birth spot this year, briefly abandoning its East River digs. Why? In part, to celebrate of the 400th anniversary of the exploration of the river by Henry Hudson. Or maybe to screw with your normal fireworks viewing habits. Either/or.

The fireworks begin around 9:20 p.m. and feature the New York Pops performing a revamped American River Suite. In addition to the American standards we've come to expect, this year fireworks' soundtrack includes the premiere of music by Tony Award-winner Stephen Flaherty and performances by Broadway stars Audra McDonald and Idina Menzel.

This is all well and good, but the issue remains: any good spot you've scouted for fireworks viewing in the last few years is moot. So here's a few of our suggestions for prime "ooooh, ahhhh!" moments on the Hudson. Two things: we suggest geting out of Brooklyn and staying the heck out of Jersey.

 
BY SEA

Head to Chelsea Piers to board the six-hour Bateaux New York and Spirit of New York cruises, offering up a premium open bar, food, wine, live soft jazz, dance music and a magnificent view of the fireworks. 

Classic Harbor Line Yachts offers three different July 4 cruises, each one including complementary beer, wine, champagne, and hors d'oeuvres to keep the patriotic boating festive. 

After enjoying the new Water Taxi at the South Street Seaport, hop on the Hudson NY Water Taxi Fireworks Cruise leaving from Pier 17 at 6:30 p.m.; for $100, boaters get a boxed meal, two beverage tickets and a cash bar offering beer and wine. 

NY Waterway Tours will be hosting a special July 4 Hudson River-specific cruise, departing from a number of locations around New York and New Jersey. The $75 ticket for the cruise does not include food or drink, both of which will be available for separate purchase (for shame, NY Waterway!). Check the website for specific departures.

The well-named 4th of July Fireworks IndepenDANCE Cruise might offer more bang for your buck, with an open bar, free food and a full-on DJ party for five hours. 
 

BY LAND

Manhattan:

Fireworks viewing access points along 12th Avenue will be: 24th Street, 26th through 30th Streets, 34th Street, 40th through 44th Streets, 47th through 52nd Streets, and 54th through 57th Streets. 

Other West Side public viewing spots include: Dewitt Clinton Park (access from 11th Avenue), Pier 54 (limited access from 14th Street), Pier 84 (limited access from 44th Street), and selected side streets between 11th and 12th Avenues.

The following West Side spots will not be open for public viewing of the fireworks: Battery Park, Battery Park City, Hudson River Piers (except Pier 54 and Pier 84 as described above), the Hudson Park Promenade between West Houston and 59th Streets, the Intrepid and the Hudson River Park Bike Path between West Houston and 59th Streets.

For dinner plus exquisite fireworks viewing, the Plunge Rooftop Restaurant at the Hotel Gansevoort is taking reservations between 8 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. on the North and West Side terraces. Two-person parties have a $200 minimum while parties of four or more require a two-bottle minimum. (18 Ninth Ave., 212-206-6700)

Jason's Riverside Grill and Chelsea Brewing Company at the strategically located Chelsea Piers are selling tickets for Independence Day fireworks viewing. Jason's tickets are $20 ($10 of which is a credit for food), while those for Chelsea Brewing Company go for $150 and include an open bar from 5 p.m. -9:30 p.m., hors d'oeuvres, buffet dinner, and dessert. (For tickets, call Jason's Riverside Grill at 212-989-8400 or Chelsea Brewing Company at 212-336-6440) 

300 New York Bowling, also at Chelsea Piers, is offering $40 tickets for two hours of bowling plus a great view of the fireworks. (Call 212-835-2695 for info)

Hudson Terrace may have a low rooftop view, but it's an unobstructed one. Tickets for the night start at $125 and include an open bar from 7-10 p.m. and a BBQ buffet. (Go to http://www.hudsonterracenyc.com/ to book tickets)

The Chelsea Art Museum's annual rooftop Fourth of July Party features an open bar, music from Bachelorette, a screening of Americana films and a good view of the night-time explosions. Tickets are $50.(Go here for more info)

The Empire State Building Observatory will host a July 4 Celebration on the 86th Floor Observatory. Tickets are $125 and first come, first served. (Call 212-736-3100 for info)

The Top of the Rock observation deck in Midtown will be operating as usual...just expect large crowds for the 70th floor viewpoint. (Check here for more info) 

 
Hoboken:

The W Hotel's restaurant, Zylo, will be serving a full menu inside and on the patio during July 4. For optimal fireworks viewing, the Hudson River-adjacent steakhouse will be taking reservations for window seats inside the restaurant. The patio will be first come first served, but the view promises to be spectacular. The hotel bar, The Chandelier Room, also features a good view of the Hudson. (225 River St., Hoboken, 201-253-2400)

Some prime, public viewing spots in Hoboken, near the PATH terminal, include the recently opened Maxwell Place Park and all along the park on River Road. If you're willing to trek a little north, Weehawken sits right across from the Intrepid and the main fireworks boats. We suggest trying out the areas around Harbor Blvd. and the Weehawken Sheraton. But with blocked-off roads and suspended ferry service during the afternoon and evening, we’d suggest staying on this side of the water.

Stony Point Family Concert And CampFire Saturday July 4th @ 7:30

18th Century Balladeer Linda Russell entertains visitors.   Palisades Interstate Park Commission Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site Family Concert by the Campfire Saturday, July 4th  7:30 PM Join in a family friendly celebration of America's birth. The celebration begins with a reading of the Declaration of Independence by a costumed interpreter, followed by salute from our cannon. Then join in the fun as 18th Century Balladeer Linda Russell sings and plays period instruments by firelight. Sing along to songs of our marvelous musical past, and enjoy a children's marching band as the evening drifts into night and the campfire burns brighter.  Bring lawn chairs or blankets, flashlights, and bug spray.  The evening festivities begin at 7:30 p.m., with the gate opening at 7:00 p.m. There is a $5 parking fee.  Note: there will NOT be fireworks at this program. The historic site is located at 44 Battlefield Rd., accessed from Park Rd. off Route 9W in Stony Point. For more information and directions, please call the site office at 845-942-5751. The Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site is part of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission, which administers 29 parks, parkways, and historic sites for the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation in New York as well as the Palisades Interstate Park and parkway in New Jersey. For information about New York State parks and historic sites, please visit www.nysparks.com and for more information about the Palisades Interstate Park parks and historic sites, please visit www.palisadesparksconservancy.org. The Palisades Parks Conservancy, Inc., the charitable partner of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission is a free-standing federally registered non-profit corporation exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations may be made over our secure Web site at palisades.exhibit-e.com/donate/ or by mailing to Palisades Parks Conservancy, Bear Mountain State Park, Administration Building, Bear Mountain, NY 10911. For more information, please call us at 845-786-2701 or send email to admin@palisadesparksconservancy.org

Macy"s 2009 FireWorks Display New Jersey Viewing Spots

http://www.hudsonreporter.com/pages/full_story/push?article-Snap-+crackle-+wow-+-Where+to+catch+July+4+fireworks+locally-+roads+will+close-%20&id=2806964&instance=jersey_city_story_left_column

Snap, crackle, wow! 
Where to catch July 4 fireworks locally; roads will close

Ricardo Kaulessar

SNAP, CRACKLE, WOW! – This year, the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular will be held on the Hudson River, which will give plenty of Hudson County residents a sight to behold. Photo courtesy of Macy’s Inc.

Hoboken, Weehawken, and Jersey City are being touted by the New York media as key sights to view the Macy’s July 4 fireworks this year, as for the first time since 2000, the show will take place over the Hudson River rather than the East River. The 26-minute show will begin at 9 p.m. and launch from six barges from 24th to 50th streets. Viewers on both sides of the Hudson should be able to catch it.

However, towns like Bayonne, Jersey City, Union City, and Secaucus are also holding their own events on July 2, 4 or 5.

According to a recent press release, the Macy’s show is back “to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s voyage. American River, the theme of the 33rd annual Macy’s Fireworks, will give more than two million spectators and millions of viewers nationwide America’s most spectacular showcase of brilliant colors, jaw dropping effects and thunderous sound.”

As a result of the anticipated traffic, several north-sound roads in the county will be closed. It is anticipated that Boulevard East in Weehawken, West New York, Guttenberg and North Bergen will be closed to traffic by 6 p.m. or earlier on July 4. Port Imperial Boulevard and River Road in Weehawken, West New York, Guttenberg and North Bergen will be closed to all but emergency vehicles from Baldwin Avenue to the Bergen County border at approximately the same time. Sinatra Drive in Hoboken will also be closed to all traffic other than emergency vehicles. 

Other roads in Hudson County may be closed or restricted so as to insure the ability of emergency vehicle to move throughout the County. These road closures will result in extremely heavy traffic conditions on those roads that remain open. 

Read on for more details of the events.

Jersey City

On the Fourth of July, Jersey City will hold its annual Independence Day festivities, with fireworks, again at Liberty State Park from 2 to 10 p.m.

Radio Disney will broadcast live onsite with music, games, and dance contests. The Cultural Affairs stage will host a free concert at 3 p.m. with performances by Blue Magic, Black Ivory, 3D Jade and DJ Omar. 

A 30-minute fireworks show will begin at 9:15 p.m. against the backdrop of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The display will be accompanied by popular and patriotic music.

Bayonne 


The city of Bayonne will celebrate the Fourth of July on Sunday, July 5.

A fireworks show will be held on July 5, at approximately 9 p.m., at the 19th Street bulkhead of the DiDomenico 16th Street Park. The Police and Fire Departments will have units present for safety purposes. There will be no ground-level fireworks in the show. The fireworks will be launched behind a baseball backstop, which will act as a buffer. The rain date for the fireworks will be July 6.

Limited parking will be available on the lower level of DiDomenico 16th Street Park. City officials reserve the right to close the lower level of the park to traffic once the parking lots are full. Since parking near the July 5 events is limited, the public is urged to walk or take a bus to the area and to bring along beach chairs. 

Also, the DiDomenico Municipal Pool at 16th Street Park will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Two children's amusements, Alcatraz and Coliseum, will be available in the lower park from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Wooster Street Dixie Band will play patriotic and big band-style music from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the amphitheater at DiDomenico 16th Street Park. 

Union City

The city is celebrating Independence Day on Thursday, July 2 from 6 to 10 p.m. along New York Avenue from 23rd through 29th streets. 

There will be live music at the 29th Street stage featuring performances by Cubanoson and Rockamericana, performances at the 24th Street stage by Rosario and the Perfect Party Show, the Razler Quintet in Concert, the TapOle Dance Company, and circus performer Andew Vinokurov. 

There will also be activities for kids, free hot dogs, and soda. Everyone is invited.

The State Fair Meadowlands 


The State Fair Meadowlands, held every year at the Giants Stadium Fairgrounds in East Rutherford, will host fireworks on July 3 and 4 around 10 p.m. 

Schaefer Pyrotechnics will produce the fireworks for the fair, and has been doing so for 38 years. 

The fair hosts 150 rides and attractions, 75 food vendors, for all ages with free entertainment, magic, daredevils, and a petting zoo. The Meadowlands fair is open July 3 and 4 from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. Admission is $9 for adults, $6 for children 12 and under. Admission is free for children under 34 inches tall. 

For more information, call (973) 450-1073 or visit www.njfair.com.

Weehawken and Hoboken

With thousands of spectators expected on Weehawken’s waterfront on July 4, town officials are expecting a steep increase in crowd-control expenses. They expect 25,000 people on Boulevard East and the waterfront, based on attendance numbers from 2000.

With extra police, fire, and ambulance personnel, the township expects to spend $50,000 for the one-day event. Mayor Richard Turner said there will be no other Independence Day events in town that day.

“It’s a beautiful thing to watch,” said Mayor Turner. “I’m up on Boulevard East every year with my family. But it creates a tremendous burden on our town, and right now, it’s a burden we can’t afford. We’re going to do whatever it takes to protect the town and people’s property. Hopefully there won’t be as many people as were anticipating.”

The township is posting information on their website (http://www.weehawken-nj.us/) for residents on street closings and other actions taken on the Fourth of July.

A sign recently spotted on River Road said part of the road may be closed that day.

Hoboken will be a central site for viewing the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration over the Hudson River. Tens of thousands of visitors are expected. 

Mayor David Roberts said in a recent press release that all available police officers, firefighters, Office of Emergency Management personnel, building inspectors, and other municipal officials will be enforcing all codes and regulations regarding public behavior with a “zero tolerance level” on that day. 

This includes, “absolutely no rooftop parties or gatherings for viewings of the firework celebration, unless the said property has met the code standards for such usage,” according to the release.

Secaucus

Secaucus is definitely planning to have its annual celebration at the municipal pool on the night of July 4, officials said. Details were not confirmed by press time, but will be posted on www.hudsonreporter.com when they become available. 

Ricardo Kaulessar can be reached at rkaulessar@hudsonrreporter.com. 

Hudson Valley Philharmonic & Fireworks Show July 4th @ Dutchess County FairGrounds

http://www.dutchessfair.com/index.php

4th of July Celebration
July 3rd & 4th, 2009

Friday night: Demolition Derby & Fireworks Show; Saturday: Demolition Derby & Hudson Valley Philharmonic & Fireworks at dusk. Bring your blankets & lawn chairs. Other activities include children's games, Children's Carnival Rides, Petting Zoo, Pony Rides, Frog Jumping, Homemade Apple Pie, and other great food. (Sorry no outside food or coolers). View Calendar of Events for more information.

July 4th @ Washingtons Headquarters

The Mel Johnson family picnic at Washington's Headquarters, 1909.

Celebrate Our 249th birthday! 

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation

Palisades Interstate Park Commission

A GRAND CELEBRATION:
Washington's Headquarters Celebrates Its 259th Birthday!

Saturday July 4th, 2009
12:00 PM until 5:00 PM

Be a part of the Grand Celebration taking place Saturday, July 4th at Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site, Newburgh, from 12:00 PM until 5:00 PM. Bring your family, a picnic basket lunch and a blanket for an old fashioned picnic. All you have to do is find a comfortable spot to sit and enjoy the juggling and magic of Ryan Dutcher and a cappella singing by the Golden Songsters. 

Remember to enter our Friends raffle. We have some wonderful picnic-themed prizes provided by Adams Fairacre Farms, Country Creations of New Windsor, CVS, Hannaford's, Harry & David's, Lowe's, and Wal-Mart.

Free admission to the Museum and Historic Headquarters is made possible by support from Regina Angelo and the Friends of the State Historic Sites of the Hudson Highlands. 

For further information call 845-562-1195. 

Macy"s Quadricentennial July 4th Fireworks Saturday July 4 @ 9:20PM

http://cityguideny.com/viewcolumn.cfm?colid=16578
Explosive Milestone: The Macy's 4th of July Fireworks

From The Half Moon to an American River, Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® pyrotechnic splendor returns to the Hudson River for the first time since 2000 to celebrate America’s birthday with the nation’s largest 4th of July fireworks display. On Saturday, July 4th, at approximately 9:20pm, Macy’s will create a showstopper like no other to honor the country’s independence and to kick off the 400th anniversary of the exploration of the Hudson River by Henry Hudson. American River, the theme of the 33rd annual Macy’s Fireworks, will offer a spectacular showcase of brilliant colors, jaw-dropping effects and thunderous sound.  

This year’s patriotic revelry will feature approximately 40,000 shells exploding in a kaleidoscope of color at a rate of more than 1,500 per minute and will feature eight times more high-level fireworks than last year’s show. The 26-minute display, designed in collaboration with SOUSA Fireworks, will be set off from six barges positioned between 24th and 50th Streets on the Hudson River, giving New York City a stunning front-row seat to America’s biggest Independence Day party. With the six barges lined up on the river, this will be the longest continuous show ever.

Before becoming an annual tradition in 1976, Macy’s Fireworks debuted in 1958 on the Hudson River and held a special event marking the 350th Anniversary of the voyage of Henry Hudson with a spectacular show in 1959. Now they’re returning to the Hudson to continue to celebrate the fascinating story that culminates with the founding of New Amsterdam by Dutch settlers and to kick off the City’s NYC400 summer celebrations, which culminate on September 13th with Harbor Day.

This year’s big bang will be synchronized to a score featuring patriotic standards, classic river-themed works and original music. The legendary New York Pops, under the direction of Steve Reineke, will perform the musical score that features classics as well as the original composition “American River Suite,” written by Broadway composer Stephen Flaherty and Macy’s creative director Bill Schermerhorn. Lending their vocal talents will be Broadway superstars Audra McDonald and Idina Menzel, with appearances by the Choir Academy of Harlem. The score can be heard live by tuning in to radio station 1010 WINS.  

New this year will be a few shells that have mysterious qualities, from the “Ghost” shells that appear, disappear and reappear in plain sight to the shape-shifting Saturn shells with their interlocking loops and rings that create shapes then transform to “space dust” and finally to Patriotic Tulips in honor of New York’s Dutch heritage.  

A few old favorites are back -- with a twist. “Macy’s Golden Mile” is ready to cover more than one mile of the river with a massive shower of golden sparks. To give that fan-favorite more time to be enjoyed, this year the Golden Mile will last longer than ever before as the shells shine for more time while cascading to the water’s edge. Since the Golden Mile is universally beloved by spectators, Macy’s will give them an extra special treat with the addition of the first-ever “Macy’s Silver Mile.” The newest mile of sparkle is made possible by using Japanese Nishiki-style White Strobbing Kamuro shells that will cover the sky over the Hudson and be featured during the song “Half Moon.”

Spectators along the West Side will not only have a front-row view of the show, but also get a second performance. At 7:30pm an FDNY Fireboat Water Show will begin with New York’s Bravest sailing two Marine Division fireboats spraying red, clear and blue water arcs up 300 feet in the air in a patriotic salute to America’s independence. Following that tribute at 8pm, spectators will enjoy a special flyover by jets from the Air National Guard’s 104th Fighter Wing in the last prelude to the commencement of the fireworks bonanza.  

The spectacular is broadcast nationally on NBC-TV, beginning at 9pm (check local listings) with a star-studded line-up of celebrities and performances by Rob Thomas, the cast of Broadway’s West Side Story and more.

Viewing information and other spectator tips are available at www.macys.com/fireworks or by calling the Macy’s Fireworks Hotline at 212-494-4495.

Memorial Day Events Around The Hudson Valley

http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/article/20090520/NEWS01/905200313/1006

Memorial Day events set

If you are planning a parade, ceremony or other public event marking Memorial Day, let us know, and we'll list your public event in the Journal and online.

Send an e-mail tonewsroom@poughkeepsiejournal.com or send a fax to 845-437-4921.

Castle Point

Memorial Day ceremony - VA Hudson Valley Health Care System, Castle Point Campus, Castle Point. 2-3 p.m. Thursday in the multipurpose room. 1-914-737-4400 ext. 2255.

East Fishkill

Memorial Day celebration - Veterans Memorial, Route 82 and Beekman Road, Hopewell Junction. 10:45 a.m. Monday. Ceremony will start with a march from the East Fishkill Community Center. 845-226-4717.

Memorial Day service - Hughsonville Fire Company at 1 p.m. Monday in front of the fire station, on Old Hopewell Road on Route 9D. Refreshments will be served after.

Fishkill

Memorial Day program - Cemetery DuBois Chapel, Fishkill Rural Cemetery, 801 Route 9, Fishkill. Noon Monday. Guest speaker is Paula Zwillinger, founder of Semper Fi Parents of the Hudson Valley. 845-896-6227.

Memorial Day service - Veterans Monument, On-the-Green Road, Route 82, Verbank. 9 a.m. Monday. Hosted by the Union Vale Fire Co. 845-677-9262.

Hyde Park

Memorial Day ceremony - Veterans honor roll monument, Dinsmore Park, Old Post Road, Staatsburg. 8 a.m. Monday. In case of rain, ceremony will be held in the Dinsmore firehouse. 845-229-5111.

Memorial Day parade - Hyde Park. 10-11 p.m. Monday. Starts at Roosevelt Theater on Route 9 and ends at town hall. American Legion will conduct the memorial service at town hall at the end of the parade. Call Diane Cullen at 845-229-8086 ext. 4 for information.

New Paltz

Memorial Day parade and services - New Paltz Fire Station, 25 Plattekill Ave., New Paltz. 6 p.m. May 30. Memorial services will be held in front of the Village Veterans Memorial at the New Paltz Fire Station with a guest speaker and a salute to deceased veterans. 845-255-8497.

Pawling

Memorial Day service - Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 22 Coulter Ave., Pawling. 2 p.m. Sunday. A memorial garden service. The honor guard will lay a wreath in honor of all veterans. 845-855-5276.

Poughkeepsie

Memorial Day service - John K. Rinaldi Memorial Park, corner of Main Street and Raymond Avenue, Poughkeepsie. 9:30 a.m. Monday. By the Dutchess County War Memorial Committee. The guest speaker will be Michael Tokarz, a national office holder with the American Legion. Arlington Middle School students will perform. 845-485-3600.

Red Hook

Community veterans memorial service - Burnett & White Funeral Home, 7461 S. Broadway, Red Hook. 1 p.m. Sunday. Anyone who wants to add the name of a deceased veteran to the roll call should call the funeral home at 845-758-5042. Representatives from Red Hook VFW Post No. 7765, Harris Smith American Legion Post No. 524 and Montgomery American Legion Post No. 429 will participate.

Rhinebeck

Memorial Day parade - American Legion Post 429, 6331 Mill St., Rhinebeck. 9:15 a.m. Monday. Ceremonies begin in the hamlet of Rhinecliff. Line-up for parade begins at 9:30 a.m. at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds. Guest speaker is Capt. John C. Wirth Jr. of the U.S. Marine Corps. 845-876-7376.

Wappinger

Memorial Day services - Wappingers Rural Cemetery, Route 9D, Wappingers Falls. 8:45 a.m. Monday. VFW Post No. 5913 and American Legion Post No. 427 will hold services to honor all veterans. Refreshments will be served at the VFW Post after the service. 845-297-9813; 845-297-2943.

Memorial Day ceremony - Schlathaus Park, Myers Corners and All Angels Hill roads, Wappingers Falls. 2 p.m. Monday. Town of Wappinger ceremony will include music, speakers and the laying of wreaths. Call 845-297-0720.