In New York City, the 4th of July is a huge deal. Not only does it celebrate our nation’s birth and independence, but because we are home to the Statue of Liberty and since New York City is such a melting pot of so many other cultures, New Yorkers keep this national holiday close to heart. All over the country, people will come together with their loved ones to celebrate this great day to eat great food, enjoy the outdoors, and close the evening with a fireworks display. Since NYC is so visually stunning at nighttime, especially along the water, this place we all call home goes to great lengths to bring us incredible fireworks. Whether you’re looking for a great rooftop or the perfect seat in a park or along the water, you’ll easily find something for your taste—all you need to do is plan a little ahead, and you’re set to celebrate.
This is also another great day to put your English skills to use, as everyone you run into will be in a celebratory mood and quite jovial. In addition to this mood, many will be reflective of the time they came to America. So many of our citizens come from other countries, so this will be a great time to share your story if you also come from a different area in the world. Use your English conversational skills to communicate your first reactions, how you feel while you’re in New York City, and what you feel you can bring back to your home country when your education is complete – that is, if you don’t end up staying yourself!
- Fourth of July Evening Cruise
If you have enough people in your group and if you have enough time to plan this lavish excursion, try out one of the many river cruises offered. While this event may be a bit pricey, it’s also one of those things that you’ll probably only ever do once, so why not?! Since the main fireworks (the Macy’s Fireworks Show) shoots from barges in the East River, what better place to catch them all from the actual water? Many of the cruises also include food and drink and of course, plenty of entertainment, so you could easily argue that this event is an investment on your New York City experience. Practicing your English? Ask other cruisers about their favorite 4th of July memory or why they chose to participate in a cruise this year.
- Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest
If you’re looking for something to do during the day, try your hand at another cherished American pastime: competitive hot dog eating! Each year on the 4th of July, Coney Island hosts this oddly fascinating contest that attracts thousands of people. It seems a bit absurd, I know. But this contest is televised all over the world, as contestants travel incredible distances to participate. It’s become a national tradition, and while I’ve still yet to see it myself, I still consider myself intrigued by it each year simply due to its bizarreness. Since this is another cultural melting pot event, this is a great chance for you to practice your English conversational skills and find out why other people have come to the event – their answers might surprise you!
- Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks
Of course, I saved this for last because no 4th of July would be complete without fantastic fireworks, right? The show will begin at approximately 9:30 pm on Wednesday, July 4, 2018, and the barges are located between 24th and 41st Streets in the East River. The fireworks display will last about a half hour, so you’ll be entertained for quite some time as the sky lights up to celebrate another birthday for the United States.
The 4th of July is a great time of celebration, not only for New York City but for the country as a whole. You’ll be surprised just how amazing the fireworks can resemble incredible patriotism and pride, so take this moment to think about your time in the United States, and put your English skills to use as you communicate memories that stand out, what you’ve learned, and what may inspire you for the future. So this 4th of July, pull out your best red, white, and blue outfits, grab some friends, and enjoy New York City on the most patriotic day of the year.