Here we are at the dawn of the long Independence Day weekend. Also the question arises of what to do during these three weekend days in New York, but also and above all, how to take part in the celebration of the American National Day. Here is the selection of our editorial staff.
Go see the fireworks on July 4th
« I’m happy to report America’s biggest fireworks display is back », Declared Bill de Blasio at a press conference earlier this week. ” They’re bringing fireworks back on a grand scale as we’ve loved it for decades and decades. It will be the biggest show yet. Literally, Macy’s is cooking up the greatest fireworks display they’ve ever had. »
On Sunday July 4, from 9:25 pm, more than 65,000 fires will be launched from five barges moored on the East River. The show will last 25 minutes and will feature, according to Macy’s, ” dozens of colors and shapes, creating the spectacle for a kilometer across the river and 300 meters in the air “. Covid effect, this year, a section will be reserved for vaccinated people.
The Macy’s fireworks display will be televised live on NBC from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The Brooklyners will also have their own fireworks display this year. It will be shot at Coney Island Beach on Sunday night starting at 10 p.m. and will last 15 minutes. To enjoy the show, the meeting point is on the famous Coney Island boardwalk.
Have a barbecue in a city park
On July 4, this detail escapes no one: smoke everywhere and the smell of grilled meat. Quite simply because every family or community organizes a barbecue at home or in the park. In some areas of the city, such as Harlem, it is not uncommon to see groups barbecuing directly on the sidewalk. It’s an old tradition. The Independence Day barbecue has a long history, especially in the south of the country. Immediately after the Revolution, celebrations included public dinners which then morphed into outdoor barbecues. At the time, the festivities began with a procession, a collective prayer, a speech by an honored member of the community and the singing of patriotic songs. After that the barbecue started. It was open to everyone and included meals made from produce donated by local farmers and participants toasting freedom and democratic ideas. Today, the traditional 4th of July barbecue usually includes burgers, hot dogs, steaks, grilled vegetables, a potato salad and a chocolate dessert. The table should also be decorated in red, white and blue!
Go see Lady Liberty’s “little sister”
This July 1, Lady Liberté’s “little sister” was inaugurated on Ellis Island. Another symbol of Franco-American friendship, but also the result of the friendship between Philippe Étienne, Ambassador of France to the United States and Olivier Faron, general administrator of the National Conservatory of Arts and Crafts, in Paris where the Lady Liberté’s little sister had been on display for 10 years.
Until July 6, New Yorkers can admire this perfect replica, but in a scale model of the symbol of freedom before it leaves to settle in Washington where it will remain for 10 years. It will be inaugurated on July 14 by Philippe Étienne. Long live Liberty!
Watching people stuff themselves with hot dogs
Some may find the hot dog contest disgusting, others may have fun. Every year on July 4th, when many people have barbecues in their backyards, a group of people take the stage and compete against each other to see who can eat the most hot dogs in a limited amount of time. Known as Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, it takes place every year on Coney Island, in the famous Nathan’s Famous restaurant.
Initially, this competition was created by chance, on July 4, 1916, by a handful of immigrants showing off their patriotism. Today, it is a true American tradition that attracts both competitors and spectators. Since 2011, women also compete in this competition.
You can watch this year’s contest on July 4th on ESPN or travel to Coney Island.
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