Celebrate July 4th at New York's Festivals and Fireworks Shows

The Fourth of July is only two weeks away, and this means family barbecues, fireworks, Revolutionary War re-enactments, and most of all, the celebration of our nation’s independence! Take part in a summertime tradition at one of these New York State Independence Day festivals and fireworks shows, all accessible by Amtrak.

New York City

Photo Credit: Affinia

Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular (7.6 miles from Penn Station): On the evening of July 4, Macy’s will light up the skyline of New York City for the 39^th time with its annual Fireworks Spectacular! A tradition since 1977, over 40,000 shells of fireworks are set off from the Brooklyn Bridge and water barges in New York Harbor to a patriotic musical soundtrack. For the best viewing spots, Macy’s recommends Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn Heights Promenade, and all along the east side of Lower Manhattan. Arrive early to snag a good spot for the 9 p.m. show! Admission is free.

Poughkeepsie

Walkway Over the Hudson’s Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular (0.6 miles from Poughkeepsie Train Station): Enjoy breathtaking fireworks in a unique setting while sitting high above the Hudson River at the Walkway Over the Hudson’s Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular! Relax and enjoy the view as the fireworks fill up the sky and get reflected in the river below. Ticket holders are admitted to the Walkway at 6:30 p.m. and fireworks will begin between 9:00 and 9:30 p.m. Chairs and snacks are welcome! Admission is $12.50 for ages 6 and over. Children 5 and under are free.

Albany

Price Chopper Presents New York State’s Fourth of July Celebration (1.7 miles from Albany Rensselaer Amtrak Station): Since 1976, Price Chopper has presented this annual Albany tradition at Empire State Plaza. The celebration begins at 3 p.m. with a naturalization ceremony, dozens of food and crafts vendors, and children’s activities. Also featuring live music by New Jersey R&B horn band Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. An afternoon and evening of fun and entertainment will culminate with the Empire State Plaza fireworks show at 9:15, dubbed the “best fireworks show in the region.” Admission is free.

Fort Ticonderoga

Photo Credit: Lake Champlain Region

Independence Day Weekend at Fort Ticonderoga (1.1 miles from Ticonderoga Amtrak Station): Partake in the historical side of Independence Day while also having fun on the grounds of Fort Ticonderoga! Highlights include Revolutionary War battle re-enactments and patriotic performances by the Fife & Drum Corps of Fort Ticonderoga, as well as educational family programs. Single-Day and Two-Day admission tickets are available. Prices vary based on age. Take advantage of one of Amtrak’s current discounts: Buy one adult train ticket and get a second ticket for free when traveling on The Adirondack to and from Fort Ticonderoga! For more information, visit Newyorkbyrail.com/Discounts. Fort Ticonderoga also offers a shuttle service to guests arriving on Amtrak to Ticonderoga’s Best Western Plus Inn and Suites and the Fort Ticonderoga museum campus. Shuttle service is free of charge through September 7.

Buffalo

Photo Credit: Buffalo Rising

Canalside Independence Day Celebration (0.4 miles from Buffalo-Exchange Street Amtrak Station): Celebrate Fourth of July on the waterfront in beautiful downtown Buffalo at the Canalside Independence Day Celebration! Enjoy a wide selection of food vendors and live music from the Buffalo Niagara Concert Band, the George Scott Big Band, Big City Horns, and Lance Diamond. Activities for children include puppet shows, arts & crafts, face painting, and caricature art. A performance by Junior ROTC color guard at 9:15 p.m. and a flag folding ceremony at 9:30 p.m. will set the stage for the big fireworks show at 10:15 p.m. over Lake Erie! Admission is free.

Whether your idea of a perfect Fourth of July celebration is spending it with family and friends amongst good food, live music, and fireworks or paying tribute by learning more about the holiday’s history, New York State has something for everyone and Amtrak can get you there! For more information about upcoming events reachable by Amtrak and a 15% discount for Amtrak travel within New York State, visit Newyorkbyrail.com.