English
July 4th or Independence Day is the national holiday of theU.S.that unites the country in patriotic fervor. It celebrates the signing of the Declaration of Independence from theBritish Empirein 1776. On this day, everyone leaves home and life flows on the city streets.
New Yorkis not on the sidelines of this festival. Its streets are decorated for the occasion and the bars and stars fill the shop windows and parks and a party atmosphere reigns. On that day, Wall Street is closed and the NYSE forgets the pulse of the global economy. Families host outdoor barbecues or spend a day at the beach, the countryside or simply go to the nearest park to have a picnic and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
In the morning there are parades in various parts of the city, which can be seen without a problem if you like this type of activity. The shops, offices and banks are all closed on this day in commemoration of the holiday. That’s another reason that tourists celebrate like New Yorkers, attending the parades, strolling throughCentral Parkand eating to the beat of jazz bands and Latin music that populate this wonderful natural park in the heart of the city.
For those who like curious popular activities, there’s the legendary hot dog eating contest in Nathan´s Famous onConey Island. If you want to participate in this famous competition you’ll need good teeth, an incredible stomach capacity and a love of hot dogs. The competition takes place atnoonand is full of cameras, tourists and hungry contestants. This tradition was initiated as part of the July 4th celebrations in 1916.
The part that everyone looks forward to, however, is at night. At9 pm, a light show illuminates different parts ofNew Yorkfor 30 minutes straight. The famous department store Macy´s has been sponsoring this show since 1958. Fireworks are also ignited over theHudson Riverfrom different points and may be visible from many parts of the city since they are shot quite high.
If you want to make sure not to miss the fireworks show, it can be seen on the East River, between 10th and 23rd Streets. Another great place to view it is from the gardens onGovernors Island or theHudson RiverPark. You can also go toNew Jersey where you will find incredible views. What I recommend is to arrive early to find a good spot since all ofNew York takes to the streets to watch the fireworks.
If money is not a hindrance, take the easier route by reserving a table for dinner on the ship Spirit of New York or other similar alternatives and enjoy theHudsonby the light of the multicolored fireworks.
If you want to do some shopping, take advantage of the deals that are traditionally offered by some stores the day before July 4.
Celebrate Independence Day like a New Yorker when you rent apartments in New york
