Brooklyn does the Fourth of July the way it does everything else: loud, crowded in the best way, and completely its own. This borough packs a full weekend of July 4th events in Brooklyn into a single holiday, and 2026 is America’s 250th birthday. New York is treating it like the milestone it is.
Before the weekend gets going, stop into Budega and get what you need for the long holiday!
Brooklyn and NYC Events This Independence Day
1. Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks
The 50th annual Macy’s 4th of July fireworks display launches from the Brooklyn Bridge and barges along the East River and lower Hudson River. The fireworks run approximately 25 minutes and reach over 1,000 feet above the water.
Plan to arrive early. DUMBO and the Brooklyn Heights waterfront fill up fast. Street closures start in the afternoon, so give yourself time to get in position.
2. Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest
The Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest continues a 100-year-plus tradition at the iconic Nathan’s Famous flagship restaurant at the corner of Surf and Stillwell avenues in Coney Island. On Friday, July 4, the women’s competition starts at 11 AM and the men’s starts at 12:30 PM. It’s free to watch, and it’s completely Brooklyn. If you’re heading to Coney Island for the day, build your morning around this.
3. Celebrate America’s 250th in Prospect Park
Prospect Park is marking America’s 250th anniversary with a series of free exhibits and tours centered on the Battle of Brooklyn, the first and largest battle of the American War for Independence, which was fought in part on the very ground the park now occupies.
Running daily from July 1 through November 15, two free exhibits bring this history to life: a replica military installation at Battle Pass, complete with historic cannon reproductions, and a pop-up exhibit at Lefferts Historic House examining the varied and complex roles Black people played in the conflict, from soldiers and spies to fort builders and freedom seekers.
Free guided tours of Battle Pass run Wednesdays through Sundays and holidays from July 1 through September 6, departing promptly at 2:00 PM from Lefferts Historic House and returning after an hour; RSVPs are required. All programming is part of Brooklyn250, a borough-wide Semiquincentennial commemoration made possible through State of New York funding.
4. Sail4th 250
The Port of New York and New Jersey marks America’s 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026 with Sail4th 250, billed as the largest flotilla of tall ships ever assembled in the United States, drawing vessels and crews from more than 32 countries.
The centerpiece of the Fourth is the Class A Ships Parade of Sail, joined by an aerial review, an International Naval Review, and fireworks, with over 15 miles of waterfront available for public viewing.
Free public ship tours run July 5 through 7 from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM at locations including Brooklyn Bridge Park, South Street Seaport, Staten Island’s Sullivans Pier, and Sail City at Piers 86 and 90 in Manhattan, with reservations strongly recommended.
Stock Up at Budega Before the Holiday
Budega is at 321 4th Ave in Brooklyn, a quick stop before you head to the waterfront, the park, or Coney Island for the day. Browse the full menu and place your order so you’re not scrambling on the morning of the Fourth. Have a great and safe weekend!
