Poetopia awaits The New York City Poetry Festival is back on Governors Island July 12 and 13, 2025! With powerful performances, open mics, and literary joy in a stunning outdoor space, join us in Nolan Park to celebrate the art of every voice. Free and open to all. This year’s theme, Poetopia: Reimagining Poetic Futures, invites festival-goers to co-create a world where poetry is a communal When it comes to celebrating the Fourth of July in New York City, the options for fireworks viewing are nothing short of spectacular. Picture yourself at Brooklyn Bridge Park, watching vibrant bursts light up the skyline, or enjoying a serene evening on Governors Island. • Last boat leaves Governors Island towards Wall St/Pier 11 at 2:49 p.m. The Staten Island Ferry is also running on an alternate schedule for the Fourth of July. See schedule changes here. Nothing says “freedom” like fireworks, live music, and maybe even a reenactment of a historic drag invasion. Whether you're a beachgoer, history buff, or just here for the hotdogs, there’s a perfect way to celebrate America’s birthday across the Island. Governors Island is a 172-acre island in Upper New York Bay, approximately 800 yards from the southern tip of Manhattan. Due to a planned New York Harbor closure and planned street closures surrounding the Battery Maritime Building, Governors Island will close early on Friday, July 4, 2025. Rock, Mosquito and Hummingbird, a Pre-History of Governors Island will be on view in Fort Jay. The Island will be open all day from 10AM-7PM. Ferries will run on a weekend schedule from Manhattan and Brooklyn, until the island closes at 7PM. The NYC Runs Firecracker 5K & 10K is taking place from 9AM – 10: 45AM. INTERVENTIONS: delicate people Governors Island Arts x L'Alliance New York Oct 4, 2025 Past Events Highlights See below for past programs and events on Governors Island. Governors Island is the place to celebrate this Fourth of July! Bring a picnic, go for a scenic bike ride, wave to the Statue of Liberty from the top of Outlook Hill or just take a peaceful nap in a hammock. Governors Island: Open with extended ferry service and holiday events. NYC Botanical Gardens & Bronx Zoo: Open with seasonal programming. Outdoor Events: Expect concerts, food festivals, and pop-up markets across the boroughs—especially in Brooklyn and Queens. Full July 4 events guide here. America will celebrate its Independence tomorrow, but the real fun is happening here in the tri-state area. From the fireworks, BBQs and music, we got you covered! Please check out these cool two events below and whatever you decide to do, please be safe and have fun! Governors Island is a 172-acre island in Upper New York Bay, approximately 800 yards from the southern tip of Manhattan. 📣 Important Fourth of July Visitor Update 📣 Due to a planned New York Harbor closure and planned street closures in Lower Manhattan surrounding the Battery Maritime Building, Governors Island will close early on Friday, July 4, 2025. ️ Governors Island will be open from 7AM-3PM on Friday, July 4, 2025. ️ The final ferry from Manhattan to Governors Island will be 1PM. ️ The final Enjoy the Fourth of July in NYC, by running a 5K or 10K on Governors Island. NYCRuns holds races throughout the city and is known for putting together The Queens Half Marathon, Brooklyn Marathon, and the popular Empire State Building Run-Up. Macy's has announced its official free viewing areas for its 49th annual 4th of July fireworks show above the East River and the Brooklyn Bridge. Where to Watch NYC’s Fourth of July Fireworks: A Magical Night at Collective Retreats Governors Island For nearly half a century, the Fourth of July fireworks have been one of New York City’s most beloved summer traditions. Each year, thousands gather along the waterfront for a glimpse of the dazzling display, but few know the secret to experiencing them in comfort, style, and total Due to a planned New York Harbor closure and planned street closures surrounding the Battery Maritime Building, Governors Island will close early on Friday, July 4, 2025. Due to a planned New York Harbor closure and planned street closures in Lower Manhattan, Governors Island will close at 3PM on Friday, July 4, 2025. More info. Just a quick 5 minute boat ride from Manhattan, you’ll feel miles away on this July 4th holiday as you drink in the spectacular views. Indulge your playful side in the meadow playing lawn games including oversized jenga and cornhole as our live entertainment carries you wistfully through the afternoon. Plan the ultimate July 4 in NYC! Discover fireworks, classic attractions, rooftop parties, festivals, and Independence Day events for the perfect summer weekend in New York.
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