July 4 | 6:30pm | Pier 16, Wavertree | Early Bird: $100–$500
Mark America’s 250th anniversary with an unforgettable Fourth of July on the waterfront at South Street Seaport Museum! Reserve your ticket now for a spectacular East River vantage point and front-row views of the 50th edition of Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks®, launching from the Brooklyn Bridge and four barges positioned directly in front of the Museum, from the bridge to Pier 6.
Scroll down to choose the ticket that’s right for you!
Evening Aboard the Tall Ship Wavertree
Limited-Time Early Bird Tickets: $500
With Sail4th 250 bringing tall ships from around the globe and increased maritime excitement to New York Harbor, this Fourth of July the Seaport Museum is offering a rare opportunity to celebrate aboard New York’s resident tall ship, the historic 1885 Wavertree. This opportunity offers a smaller, more exclusive gathering on the quarterdeck with exceptional views of the fireworks in an unforgettable setting.
These premium tickets include an open bar and light bites, plus the chance to spend the evening surrounded by the historic charm of one of the City’s most treasured maritime landmarks.
This event aboard Wavertree is a fundraiser supporting the Museum’s waterfront education programs, which connect public school students to the harbor through hands-on learning in history, ecology, navigation, and maritime careers. With that in mind, $250 of each ticket is tax-deductible.
To keep this event intimate, tickets are extremely limited—reserve yours now at this special early-bird price before they sell out.Boarding begins at 6:30pm. Fireworks are scheduled from 9:25pm–10pm. Access to Wavertree involves climbing a few stairs, walking up an angled gangway, and descending a few stairs onto the deck.
Wavertree ticket holders have a stellar vantage point raised above surrounding 4th of July events throughout the seaport, offering an optimal view of fireworks launched from both the Brooklyn Bridge and the barges.
Celebration at the Historic Pier 16
Limited-Time Early Bird Tickets: $100–$300
Bring your friends, family, and festive spirit to Pier 16 for an all-ages Independence Day celebration with spectacular waterfront views of the fireworks lighting up the New York City skyline. This year brings three viewing areas to choose from—Red, White, or Blue—each offering an incredible experience on the East River.
Food and drinks will be available for purchase throughout the pier from Cobble Fish, with backyard-style favorites and refreshing beverages. Come hungry—there’s something for everyone!
All attendees over the age of one year old must have a ticket. Infants do not require a ticket.
Pier access begins at 6:30pm. Fireworks are scheduled from 9:25pm–10pm.
Early Bird Ticket: $300
Red ticket holders have access to the most exclusive watch area at the face of Pier 16, offering an optimal view of fireworks launched from both the Brooklyn Bridge and the barges.
Early Bird Ticket: $150
White ticket holders have an incredible view of the fireworks launched from the barges along the river but may have a limited view of the bridge.
Early Bird Ticket: $100
Blue ticket holders have a stellar view of the fireworks launched from the barges along the river.
Advanced registration is required. Details about timing and how to access the celebration will be emailed to ticket holders. All ticket sales are final. No refunds or exchanges will be issued. This event will take place rain or shine. Tickets are limited, and space available within each viewing areas is available on a first-come, first-served basis for respective ticket holders.
Additional Information
Security Checks
Coolers, blankets, and large bags are not permitted in the NYPD secure zone. All items brought into the space are subject to search by NYPD, and guests may be asked to discard items prior to entry. The Seaport Museum is not liable for any items that are not permitted into the secure zone by NYPD. Strollers, wheelchairs, and walkers are allowed but are also subject to search by NYPD.
Food and Drinks
On Pier 16, food and drink will be available for purchase from Cobble Fish at various stations throughout the pier. Last call for food and beverages will be at 9:10pm, just before the fireworks begin at 9:25pm.
On Wavertree, food and drink are included in your ticket.
No outside food or drinks are permitted at either location, aside from water in clear plastic bottles.
Seating
Limited seating available on a first come, first served basis. Guests with disabilities may bring mobility aids, such as tripod stools or specialty chairs. Guests who would like seating may also bring small folding chairs through the NYPD checkpoints. The Seaport Museum is not liable for any items that are not permitted into the secure zone by NYPD.
Bathrooms
Portable toilets will be available within throughout the evening.
Rain or Shine
This event will take place rain or shine. Any decision to cancel the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® is at the discretion of Macy’s. The Seaport Museum does not issue refunds or exchanges, regardless of weather conditions.
Tickets
All guests over the age of one must have a ticket to enter. Infants under one year of age do not require their own ticket. Each ticket includes a unique QR code. Orders with multiple tickets will include a QR code for each ticket. If you cannot locate your confirmation email, please check your spam or junk folder. If it’s still missing, you may request a resend by contacting [email protected].
Walking Around the Pier
For safety, once you’ve entered the event, you will not be permitted to leave Pier 16 until the fireworks display concludes at 10:00pm. Guests in the Red Viewing Zone will be able to move back and forth between the Red, White, and Blue Viewing Zones as they wish throughout the evening. Guests in the White Viewing Zone will be able to move back and forth between the White, and Blue Viewing Zones as they wish throughout the evening. Guests on board Wavertree will be able to move back and forth between the ship and Blue Viewing Zones as they wish throughout the evening to access the restrooms.
Independence Day Pioneer Charter
Celebrate the Fourth of July in unforgettable style with a private rental aboard the 1885 schooner Pioneer! Together with up to 35 of your friends and family, the deck of this historic ship will become your exclusive front-row seat to New York City’s legendary fireworks display. With the skyline as your backdrop and fireworks lighting up the night, this experience promises an evening of magic. Don’t miss this opportunity—inquire now to reserve your exclusive Independence Day charter!
This rental fee starts at $30,000.
Ready for more?
Head over to our Programs and Events page to see what else is happening at the Museum. Sign up for an upcoming talk, learn more about visiting Wavertree, or explore our virtual offerings.