Spotlight on Long Island: Fireworks, Festivies & Freedom
4 Fun Ways to Celebrate July 4th on Long Island
There’s something truly special about the Fourth of July on Long Island—where small-town charm meets big-time celebration. From dazzling fireworks over the ocean to classic parades and waterfront concerts, our hometowns come alive with patriotic pride. Whether you’re in the mood for a lively street festival or a laid-back beach evening capped with fireworks, there’s no shortage of red, white, and blue fun happening across Nassau and Suffolk.
Jones Beach Fireworks Spectacular, Wantagh
This year’s Jovia Financial Credit Union Fireworks Spectacular at Jones Beach is pulling out all the stops for an unforgettable Fourth. Beginning at 9:30 p.m., the 25-minute show will launch over 5,000 shells from a barge 2,000 feet offshore—choreographed to a soundtrack simulcast on WALK 97.5 FM and KJOY-98.3 FM. Expect a mix of pop culture and patriotic flair, with candy-colored fireworks timed to hits by Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Dua Lipa for Barbie fans.
The show will crescendo with grand golden weeping willows to Whitney Houston’s America the Beautiful and a booming finale of firecrackers to The Stars and Stripes Forever.
But the fun starts long before sunset. Beginning at noon, the boardwalk will be alive with live music, children’s entertainers, and a special exhibit celebrating the 100th anniversary of New York State Parks—featuring displays from each decade, 1920s to today.
Fireworks are included with the standard parking fee, and the park stays open late so you can soak in every moment.
Eisenhower Park Salute to America Concert & Fireworks, East Meadow
For a classic Fourth of July celebration close to home, head to Eisenhower Park in East Meadow. On Wednesday, July 3, the park will host its annual Salute to America concert at the Lakeside Theatre, followed by a stunning fireworks display. This free event begins at 7 p.m. and features live musical entertainment with patriotic flair. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and settle in for a relaxing evening under the stars. Parking is free, and the atmosphere is festive and family-friendly—perfect for those who prefer to avoid beach crowds but still want that full Independence Day feeling.
Fireworks Over the Bay in Sag Harbor, Sag Harbor
While the fireworks don’t happen on the Fourth itself, the Sag Harbor Yacht Club’s annual John A. Ward Independence Day Fireworks show is worth the wait. Scheduled for Saturday, July 5 at around 9:30 p.m., this beloved display lights up the harbor with breathtaking bursts of color over the bay. Spend your day exploring the charming shops and restaurants of Sag Harbor, then head to Long Beach with a blanket and snacks for a relaxed evening by the water. It’s the perfect way to extend your holiday weekend in classic Long Island style.
Westhampton Country Club Fireworks, Westhampton Beach
While this is a private country club event held at the Westhampton Country Club on Potunk Lane, the entire community lines up on the outer streets to enjoy the dazzling Grucci display of fireworks that begins at 9:00 PM.
From beachside booms to small-town strolls, Long Island is bursting with patriotic pride this Fourth of July. Whether you stay close to home or make a scenic drive, may your Independence Day be filled with fun, freedom, and unforgettable memories. Wishing you a safe and sparkling July 4th!
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Cheryl Benton, aka the “head tomato” is founder and publisher of The Three Tomatoes, a digital lifestyle magazine for “women who aren’t kids”. Having lived and worked for many years in New York City, the land of size zero twenty-somethings, she was truly starting to feel like an invisible woman. She created The Three Tomatoes just for the fun of it as the antidote for invisibility and sent it to 60 friends. Today she has thousands of friends and is chief cheerleader for smart, savvy women who want to live their lives fully at every age and every stage. She is the author of the novel, "Can You See Us Now?" and co-author of a humorous books of quips, "Martini Wisdom." Because she's lived a long time, her full bio won't fit here. If you want the "blah, blah, blah", read more. www.thethreetomatoes.com/about-the-head-tomato