Independence Day is quickly approaching.  Have you made plans to celebrate the holiday?  One thing is for sure; fireworks are a must. Macy’s annual fireworks show will return to the East River.  This is great news for all of you in the outer boroughs east of Manhattan.  But in a sea of New Yorkers, you have to pick your viewing location wisely.  We can’t all have front row seats on the bank of the river.  Instead, SNOWMAN is bringing you info on myriad viewing opportunities, from tranquil spots to rowdy night scenes. Take the opportunity to experience 4th of July fireworks in style.  Tailor your experience to be perfect for you and your crew.

Take your pick among cruises, rooftops, and breezy terraces.  Cruise options often involve a buffet dinner and/or an open bar.  Many of these cruises are on the pricier side; Couples VIP tables can cost around $1,000 just for the time between 5pm and 11pm.  Other options are more family-friendly and include activities for kids.  Those of us without children beware of which boat you board.  We would not want your romantic evening turning into a night on the playground.

Boats not your thing?  Perhaps you don’t want to commit to an entire evening of scheduled activities.  Rooftops are always a wonderful option.  A timeless classic, though touristy, destination is the Top of the Rock.  At 30 Rockefeller Plaza, go to the viewing deck for $27.  You will not, however, get the American classics – burgers (ham, turkey, or veggie), hotdogs, and cold brews.  For these indulgences (or some version of them), visit Soaked at Mondrian SoHo.  On this night, to accompany your views of the city skyline and fireworks, the Mondrian Soho hosts a Red, White and Juice Party.  This open wine and beer bar that kicks off at 7am is complete with artisanal snack and a DJ.  It’s a sure spot for a memorable night.  A somewhat classier affair takes place on the roof of Pier 66.  This gala is limited to only 100 people, so buy your tickets now if an open bar and table seating strikes your fancy this holiday.   Looking for a less expensive rooftop option without sacrificing the bells and whistles?  Try the Sky Terrace at the Hudson Hotel at 356 W. 58th Street.  These tickets start at $40 a head, which includes an hour of open bar and music by Rawse J. Schott and Brandon James.

Don’t want to deal with any of the glitz, glamour, or costs associated with a rooftop soiree? Explore the public access options.  Macy’s has released a handful of “official accesses” - which will of course be packed.  These include Manhattan’s FDR Drive between the Manhattan Bridge and Montgomery Street (enter at Montgomery or South Streets), the Manhattan entry ramp to the Brooklyn Bridge, and Water Street at the south side of the Brooklyn Bridge.  If you want to “chart your own path” as much as is possible in this city, your first option, convenient for those of you in lower Manhattan and Southwest Brooklyn, can be found on Piers 1 to 6 of the Brooklyn Bridge Park.  This is a great front row seat for the action.  The Brooklyn Heights Promenade, accessed via Columbia Heights and Pineapple Street, will be a beautiful destination as well.

With all these options buzzing in the near future, its decision time!  Don your red, white, and blue, and find your spot to watch those soaring fireworks.