Getty Images
The iconic NYC fireworks tradition is expanding across multiple rivers and the Brooklyn Bridge for a milestone summer celebration.
At a Glance
Macy’s fireworks show is celebrating a major milestone this summer
New viewing areas will open across more parts of NYC
The Brooklyn Bridge will be part of this year’s spectacle
Families can watch in person or from home
A nationwide sweepstakes is also part of the celebration
If you’ve lived in New York long enough, you probably have a Macy’s fireworks memory: a rooftop, a waterfront blanket, a sleepy ride home. My most memorable was watching the show just three days before going into labor with my first child — nine months pregnant, swollen in the summer heat, feeling like I might burst right alongside the sky. To this day, the smell of fireworks brings me right back to the anticipation of that night.
Psst… Check Out Strawberry Picking Near NYC Is Back — Here’s Where to Go in 2026
This July 4th, the show turns 50, and Macy’s is going all out. The 50th anniversary also happens to fall during America’s 250th birthday year, which makes this one bigger than usual.
More Places to Watch
The biggest change this year is where the fireworks are happening. Instead of one stretch of river, the show is expanding to three locations: the Lower East River near the Seaport District, the lower Hudson River (with Jersey City joining in), and the Brooklyn Bridge.
That’s good news for anyone who’s spent half the night squeezed into a crowded corner just trying to catch a glimpse of the fireworks between buildings. With more launch sites this year, a lot more neighborhoods will get a proper view.
Watching From Home
The show airs live on NBC and Peacock starting at 8 pm ET, with a replay at 10 pm, so if your kids are young enough to be in bed or you have children who are sensitive to loud noises, this is a good option.
One More Thing
Macy’s is running a sweepstakes called Golden Confetti through October 31st, which will award 100 prizes, including event tickets, experiences, and a $100,000 grand prize shopping spree. You can enter at MacysGoldenConfetti.com.
For viewing spots and more information, check Macy’s Fireworks as July gets closer. They’ll announce performers and public viewing details in the coming weeks.
Psst… Check Out New York City Summer Bucket List for Families and Kids 2026
