Summer is just around the corner, and that also means that preparations for 4th of July celebrations are already underway. There will definitely be plenty to do and see on Independence Day itself, but if you’ll rather stay at home and even catch up on a couple of hours of sleep, that’s your prerogative. However, for those looking to enjoy the arrival of summer and get the party started, there’s plenty for you to begin with and we have them all right down here for you:

Enjoy a Beautiful Fireworks Display

Admit it; there’s just something mesmerizing and awesome about a great firework show. Be it the colorful patterns, explosive sounds as it shoots up or even the way it beautifully lights up the night sky, pyrotechnics are definitely here to stay. It’s also a great way to involve just about everyone, so if you’re looking for a jaw-dropping sight, this is one activity you’ll be looking forward to. 

When it comes to the largest fireworks show in the United States, it’s got to be Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks. This time round, the festivities will be centered in the south on barges around the Brooklyn Bridge. You’ll want to snag a good location to watch the display, and this will include the lower Manhattan and Brooklyn neighborhoods closest to the bridge.

Venue: Around Brooklyn Bridge (Pier 17)

Time & Date: Fireworks start around 9:20 (4 July)

Organize a BBQ

You can always hold a cookout or barbecue in your own backyard, but not everyone has access to a piece of lawn to do so. However, if you’re able to host a cookout, you should definitely include family members and friends. You can even make it a potluck affair where everyone gets to contribute a little something to the table to make it all the more delicious.

Here’s a little something you might not be aware of: Central Park only permits grilling and barbecuing on 3 days a year, and one of it is on Independence Day. So feel free to head on over Sheep Meadow with all your equipment and food, but do take note that propane gas is strictly prohibited. For more food choices on the go, you can also visit the nearest Whole Foods at 10 Columbus Circle.  

Take a Trip to the Beach

Soaking in water is one refreshing way to cool off during the summer months, and there are plenty of lakes and beaches to choose from. Of course, some will require less traveling time and others a little more, so do plan in advance. It’s also a great time to indulge in plenty of water sports, so if you’re an outdoor enthusiast with a penchant for playing with or in water, this is probably the best season for you.

Dress Up in Red, White, and Blue

Nothing shouts louder than a red, white and blue ensemble, and because it’s the 4th of July, no one’s really going to bat an eyelid if you choose to wear something really out of the norm to commemorate the occasion. Of course, there will be some people who will prefer a more subtle tribute, and you can easily do that with a few selected accessories instead of planning a whole new look.

Dine on America’s Iconic Foods

Who doesn’t love a good hot dog or burger? Even the pickiest of eaters will concur that America’s staple foods are really delicious when done just right. Even if it’s already your regular menu every week, there’s really nothing wrong with indulging in one of the world’s favorite foods to celebrate this special occasion. If you’re not into dining out, you can also look up a recipe online to try out or have your favorite American meal delivered right to your doorstep.

Spend Time with Family

Family matters and the 4th of July is a great opportunity to hang out and catch up with one another. You can always set up a couple of board games, round up some snacks and just chill with lots of laughter and fun. There’s also the option of dining out somewhere and just enjoying good company with good food.

A good choice to reserve a table at is Riverpark. Here, you’ll get to enjoy delicious modern American fare that changes daily with a bounty of seasonal ingredients from their own Riverpark Farm as well as other fresh local choices. It’ll be a culinary adventure to remember, and what better way to cap off America’s independence than a truly decadent meal.

Venue: 450 East 29th Street, New York, NY 10016

Opening Hours: 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. & 5:30 to 9 p.m. (4 July)

Website: https://www.riverparknyc.com/

Enjoy Some Crafts at Home 

Other than dressing up in the nation’s favorite colors, you can also decorate your home inside and out too. There aren’t that many occasions where people go all out, and this is one of it. Of course, there’s the option of prominently displaying the American flag, but if you think that’s not something you’re interested in, you can also purchase colorful streamers and banners to hang up.

Go on Vacation

You needn’t feel guilty about taking some time off. After all, the 4th of July this year falls on a Thursday, and if you take the Friday off, that leaves you with a good four days to enjoy yourself. You’ll need to remember that you aren’t the only one thinking of taking a trip somewhere, so you can expect a larger crowd before, during, and after Independence Day.

To avoid feeling frustrated with traffic and long lines, it’s best to leave the driving to our reliable Westchester limousine service. Not only are they some of the best drivers on the road, but they’re also more than familiar with the most effective traffic-free routes at any time. We’ll love to have you on board with us for an unforgettable ride, so don’t hesitate to give us a call or book our car service in Westchester online today.