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By Cait Russell Published: June 19 2014

How will you be celebrating Independence Day this year? Check out LongIsland.com's 4th of July Family Fun Guide for all the best ways to enjoy the holiday weekend this year!

Looking for the 2016 4th of July Fun Guide? Click Here!

The Summer is in full swing, and the biggest holiday of the season is right around the corner. Independence Day, the Fourth of July - the day when we celebrate adoption of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, and America’s freedom. Celebrating Independence Day has been an American tradition for hundreds of years, and this year, with the holiday falling on a Friday, Long Islanders are planning on celebrating all weekend long!



This year, Long Islanders will be celebrating with tons of fun across LI - from awe-inspiring firework displays, to festivals & carnivals that are sure to be a ton of fun for the whole family, to picnics, BBQs, and of course fun at the beach - there are great ways to celebrate Independence Day no matter how you’d like to spend the day. From Nassau County all the way out to the East End, there are a multitude of celebrations happening, and plenty of opportunities to get in on the fun.



This year, there’s no reason not to enjoy the holiday and celebrate our great country’s independence - with the 4th falling on a Friday, we’re in for an entire weekend of celebrations and fun! Our great guide has everything you’ve been searching for when it comes to celebrating this 4th of July - check it out!

Due to potentially inclimate weather, some of the firework displays & special events may be cancelled or delayed.



LongIsland.com will be updating the 4th of July Guide throughout the holiday,should events be cancelled or delayed, but we urge you to call ahead before attending any of these events, should there be last minute schedule changes.

Fireworks

For many, it just wouldn't be a true Independence Day celebration without fireworks. Luckily for Long Islanders, there are plenty of beautiful professional firework displays happening across the Island, so that you can enjoy some spectacular explosions safely this holiday.



Bald Hill Fireworks Extravaganza - FREE - CANCELLED

Pennysaver Amphitheater, 55 South Bicycle Path, Farmingville, NY 11738

Friday, July 4th at 5 PM (fireworks begin at 9:15 PM) - EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED, AND WILL BE RESCHEDULED FOR A LATER DATE. SEE EVENT SITE FOR INFO.

Don't miss out on the July 4th Grucci Fireworks event at the Pennysaver Amphitheater! Free admission to this great family event. Also enjoy a performance by Captain Jack & UNcovered. Doors open at 5 PM, concert starts at 5:30 PM and fireworks begin at 9:15 PM.

Stars Over Montauk - FREE

Montauk Beaches, Montauk, NY 11954

Friday, July 4th at 9 PM (rain date is July 5th)

This 4th of July, head out to Montauk and enjoy the Stars Over Montauk fireworks show! Fireworks begin at 9 PM, and there is a rain date is July 5th. Fireworks can be viewed from town beaches - a great way to enjoy the holiday on a budget!



Asharoken Fireworks - FREE

Asharoken Avenue, Asharoken, NY 11768

Friday, July 4th at 9:20 PM - FIREWORKS HAVE BEEN POSTPONED UNTIL 7/5 AT 9:15 PM

The fireworks will be launced from a barge in the Long Island Sound. Event begins at 9:00 PM, fireworks will start at about 9:20 PM. Rain date is Saturday, July 5th at 9:20 PM. Please note and remember: there is no parking on any Village street and there are no public parking facilities in the Village. Due to excessive traffic congestion, for everyone's safety, all traffic and parking laws will be strictly enforced.

Annual Carnival & Fireworks Show - FREE

Greenport Fire Department, 236 3rd St., Greenport, 11954

Tuesday, July 1st-Saturday, July 5th at 6:00 PM

Come on down to the Annual Carnival & Fireworks Show presented by the Greenport Fire Department Phenix Hook & Ladder Co. Carnival begins at 6 PM each night and fireworks will take place on July 4th and 5th at 10 PM.

Fireworks at Morgan Park - FREE - EVENT DELAYED UNTIL JULY 5TH

Morgan Park, Germaine Street & Landing Road, Glen Cove, NY 11542

Friday, July 4th at 9:00 PM - EVENT DELAYED UNTIL JULY 5TH. SEE WEBSITE FOR INFO.

Come on down to Morgan Park to view fireworks! The best viewing spot is within the park. Limited parking within the park, additional parking available at Landing Elementary School on McLoughlin Street. Rain date: July 7th.

Fireworks at Centennial Park - FREE

Centennial Park, Ocean Avenue, Rockville Centre, NY 11570

Friday, July 4th at 9:15 PM

Come on down to Morgan Park to view fireworks! The best viewing spot is within the park. Limited parking within the park, additional parking available at Landing Elementary School on McLoughlin Street. Rain date: July 7th

Cross Sound Ferry, 41270 Main Rd., Orient, NY 11957

Saturday, July 12th at 7:00 PM

Come on down to the Cross Sound Ferry Annual Fireworks Cruise on July 12th at 7 PM. Cruise to New London Harbor for a wonderful fireworks display by Grucci and then return to Orient Point via John H. Ferry Boat.



Long Island Ducks Ballgame & Fireworks

Bethpage Ball Park, 3 Court House Drive, Central Islip 11722

Friday, July 4th at 7:05 PM

Don't miss out on the Long Island Ducks Ballgame & Fireworks as they take on the Camden Riversharks! Game begins at 7:05 PM. Presented by Atlantic Honda.

Fireworks & Fine Dining at The Crescent Beach Club

The Crescent Beach Club, 333 Bayville Avenue, Bayville 11709

Friday, July 4th

Enjoy Fireworks & Fine Dining: The Crescent Beach Club! Reserve your table for dinner and fireworks on the beach from the club's private deck and restaurant.



Southampton 27th Annual American Picnic with Fireworks by Grucci

Southampton Fresh Air Home, 36 Barkers Island Road, Southampton 11968

Friday, July 4th at 7:00 PM - THIS EVENT HAS BEEN MOVED TO SUNDAY JULY 6 AT 6:30 PM. FIREWORKS WILL BEGIN AT 9:15 PM

Festivities will include exciting games for kids of all ages. We will enjoy a delicious American picnic as well as food carts with popcorn, ice cream, hot dogs, and other delights. And, of course, there is nothing quite as special as our spectacular Grucci fireworks display over Shinnecock Bay!



Fireworks Cruises

Freeport Water Taxi & Tours, Richmond Street, Freeport 11520

Friday, July 4th at 9:00 PM

Celebrate Fourth of July this year by cruising on the water while the fireworks go off! Just $30 per person. Sponsored by Freeport Water Taxi & Tours.



New York Lizards vs. Florida Launch - Hero Night

James M. Shuart Stadium, Hofstra University, 900 Fulton Avenue, Hempstead, 11549

Thursday, July 3rd at 7:30 PM

New York Lizards vs Florida Launch - Hero's Night where we will celebrate and honor the men and women who protect and serve our country and community! There will be teams to present from NYPD and FDNY that will face off against one another as well as post game fireworks.



Go 4th On The Bay

Great South Bay 1000’ East of the Snapper Inn, Oakdale 11769

Thursday, July 3rd

Celebrate the Fourth of July on the Bay! Come watch Grucci fireworks! This event is sure to be a ton of fun, and what a great way to watch a wonderful firework display this year!



Peconic Bay Medical Center Family Festival

6164 Route 25A, Wading River, 11792

Wednesday, July 2nd-Saturday, July 5th

Peconic Bay Medical Center Family Festival will take place from July 2nd-July 5th. Festival will feature rides, games, food, and fireworks on July 2nd at 9 PM. Held on Route 25A across from the CVS. Carnival parking lot has best view of fireworks show.

Valley Stream's Annual 4th of July Fireworks Show

Firemen's Memorial Field, E. Fenimore St & Albermarle Ave, Valley Stream, NY 11580

Friday, July 5th at 6 PM (fireworks begin at 9:15 PM)

The park opens at 6 pm for ticket holders only - be sure to get yours in advance! The ground show begins at 8 PM, and the Fireworks Aerial Display will begin at 9:15 PM. There is a rain date of July 5th. Tickets are $7 in advance and $10 at the gate.

Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacle - FREE NYC EVENT

Along the East River in New York City

Friday, July 4th at 8PM

Take an adventure into the city to view more than 40,000 fireworks light up the sky along the East River synchronized to a 25-minute soundtrack. Fireworks will be let off from the Brooklyn Bridge. Get yourself comfortable on the couch since the show will be also be broadcast on NBC at 8 pm. Event to be hosted by Nick Cannon.



Festivals, Fairs, Concerts, Parades & Special Events!

Looking for some more fun this Fourth of July weekend? We've got you covered! Throughout the weekend, there are all sorts of great celebrations in addition to the firework displays happening across the Island. There will be celebratory Parades on the 4th, festivals & fairs, concerts, and so much more!



Southampton 4th of July Parade - FREE

76 Main Street, Southampton, 11968

Friday, July 4th at 10 AM - THIS EVENT IS RAIN OR SHINE!

Don't miss out on the Southampton 4th of July Parade! Parade will take place on Main St. in Southampton Village. Starts at 10 AM.

Port Jefferson 4th of July Parade - FREE

Main Street, Port Jefferson 11777

Friday, July 4th at 10:00 AM - THIS EVENT IS RAIN OR SHINE!

Celebrate the Fourth of July at the Port Jefferson Parade from 10-11 AM! Parade will take place on Main St. and is sponsored by the Port Jefferson Fire Department.

Independence Day Free Family Fishing - FREE

Captree State Park, Off the Robert Moses Causeway, Babylon, NY 11702

Friday, July 4th at 6:00 AM - THIS EVENT IS RAIN OR SHINE!

Come on down to Captree State Park to enjoy Independence Day Free Family Fishing! Free fishing will take place from 6 AM-7 PM, and is sure to be a ton of fun for anyone that enjoys the rod & reel!



Peconic Bay Medical Center Family Festival - FREE

Route 25A, Wading River, NY 11792

July 2nd - 5th from 6 PM - 11 PM (Fireworks on July 2nd)

Peconic Bay Medical Center Family Festival will take place from July 2nd-July 5th. Festival will feature rides, games, food, and fireworks on July 2nd at 9 PM. The Carnival parking lot has best view of fireworks show. Admission is free, and rides are $30 per person with POP Passes!



Oceanside Summer Festival - FREE

Schoolhouse Green, Foxhurst Road & Long Beach Road, Oceanside 11572

Saturday, July 5th and Sunday, July 6th

Come on down to the Oceanside Summer Festival on July 5th & 6th. Festival will feature great food, unique vendors, arts and crafts, antiques and collectibles and gift items. Come rain or shine!



July 4th Concert: Denice Given Band - FREE

West Beach, Port Jefferson, 11777

July 4th at 7:00 PM - FIREWORKS AND SHOW HAVE BEEN POSTPONED UNTIL JULY 5th, FIREWORKS WILL START AROUND 9PM ON THE 5TH.

Enjoy this 4th of July concert with a performance by The Denice Given Band followed by a fireworks show, bring a lawn chair and refreshments. Event will be held outdoors at West Beach, Port Jefferson. Beach parking lot access is for Port Jefferson residents only.

Main Street Independence Day Celebration - FREE

Bay Shore Bandshell, Main Street, Bay Shore, NY 11706

Thursday, July 3rd at 1:15 PM

Come on down to the Bay Shore Bandshell to enjoy the Main Street Independance Day Celebration which will feature performances for children, crafts, balloons, face painting, cookies and ice cream. Bring a blanket or chair for seating.

Fourth of July Holiday Concert: Long Island Brass Band - FREE

Connetquot Public Library, 760 Ocean Avenue, Bohemia, NY 11716

Thursday, July 3rd at 7:00 PM

Join us at the Connetquot Public Library to celebrate the holiday with a traditional brass band!

Southold Village Merchants 17th Annual 4th of July Parade - FREE

Boisseau Ave. to Tuckers Lane, Main Rd., Southold, NY 11971

Friday, July 4th at 12:00 PM - THIS EVENT WILL RUN UNLESS THERE IS EXCEPTIONALLY HEAVY RAIN, IN WHICH CASE IT WILL TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY AT 12 PM

Don't miss out on the Southold Village Merchants 17th Annual 4th of July Parade! Children are invited to participate with organization Floats, or their own decorated bicycles. Volunteers needed to distribute balloons & American Flags. If your group would like to participate in the parade, or help support please contact Carol Scott 765-4100

Massapequa 4th of July Parade - FREE

Walker St. Massapequa, NY 11758

Friday, July 4th at 11:00 AM

Don't miss out on the Massapequa 4th of July Parade, presented by the Massapequa Chamber of Commerce! The parade will begin at 11:00 AM on Walker Street, and will proceed south on Lake Shore Drive to Park Boulevard. The Chamber invites you to wear clothes that display your business name and contact information or festive, patriotic attire!

Douglaston Manor, 63-20 Marathon Parkway, Douglaston, NY 11362

Saturday, July 5th at 7:30 PM

Doc's / Millennium Parties is hosting a 4th of July Singles Celebration that you won't want to miss! Join Doc's at Douglaston Manor on July 5th at 7 pm for dinner, dancing, and a great atmosphere to meet local singles! The venue includes a spacious ballroom & outdoor patio, and there will be a Complete Holiday BBQ, Fabulous DJ, Giveaways, and so much more! Admission $28, with Special Admission discount pricing of $25 from 7:30 to 8 pm.



1864 Independence Day Celebration

Old Bethpage Village Restoration, 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage 11804

Friday, July 4th from 10 AM - 5 PM

Don't miss out on the 1864 Independence Day Celebration which will feature a re-creation of a Long Island July 4th celebration 1861, at the beginning of the Civil War, honoring the soldier recruits of the New York Volunteers. Celebration will also have a National Patriotic Picnic (bring your own picnic lunch), band concerts and fiddle music, children's games, rifled muskets firings and patriotic parade and ceremony. Admission costs from $5 - $7 per person.



Bellmore Striders Independence Day Run

Corner of Petit Ave. and Center Avenue, Bellmore 11710

July 4th at 8:30 AM - THIS EVENT IS RAIN OR SHINE!

Don't miss out on the Bellmore Striders Independence Day Run! Event will feature a 4-mile run and a 1-mile youth run ages 12 and younger at 8:15 a.m. $10 - $20 per person to participate.

Shoreham-Wading River July 4th Run

Miller Avenue School, 3 Miller Avenue, Shoreham 11786

Friday, July 4th at 8:45 AM

Don't miss out on the 29th Annual Shoreham-Wading River July 4th Run which will feature a 1-mile run at 8 a.m. for ages 12 and younger, an 8:15 a.m. run for ages 13 and older, and a 5k run at 8:45 a.m. Admission is $15 in advance, or $20 the day of the race.



Oakdale Firecracker 5K

Dowling College, 150 Idle Hour Boulevard, Oakdale, 11769

Friday, July 4th at 9 AM - THIS EVENT IS RAIN OR SHINE!

Don't miss out on the Oakdale Firecracker 5K held on July 4th! Race begins at 9 AM sharp and will happen rain or shine! Come celebrate your community on Independence Day to help benefit the CHA Fund! Start and finish will happen at the gym at Dowling College and the walk will occur through scenic Idle Hour.

Celebrate 4th of July at Ocean Restaurant

Ocean Restaurant, 333 Bayville Ave., Bayville, NY 11709

Friday, July 4th at 6:30 PM

Celebrate 4th of July at Ocean Restaurant! Seatings begin at 6:30 PM, Sunset takes place at 8:31 PM. Enjoy some tasty starters before your meal and end the dinner with a delicious dessert! $125 per person, plus sushi available a la carte. Please reserve your table ahead of time.

Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute Band 70’s FUNK

The Suffolk Theater, 118 E. Main Street, Riverhead 11901

Saturday, July 5th at 8 PM

Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute Band 70's FUNK at the Suffolk Theater on Fourth of July weekend! Dance the night away to all your favorite songs. Begins at 8 PM. Bar & restaurant open at 6:30 PM. Tickets are $25 per person.



Body English Independence Day Celebration

Chateau Briand, 440 Old Country Road, Carle Place, NY 11514

Thursday, July 3rd at 9:00 PM

Don't miss out on the Body English Independence Day Celebration at Chateau Briand! Event is sponsored by Zing. Table reservations and bottle service is available. Please call 516-389-8777.



24th Annual Southampton Firecracker 8K Run and 3M Walk

Agawam Park, Pond Lane, Southampton 11968

Sunday, July 6th at 8 AM

Come on down to the 24th Annual Southampton Firecracker 8K Run and 3M Walk! Event will benefit the Southampton Rotary Scholarship Fund. The course is flat and fast and will start and finish at Southampton's beautiful Agawam Park. Entrace Fee $25 before July 4th, $30 day of.

Huntington Independence Day - FREE July 20

Huntington Green, Main St. and Park Ave., Huntington, NY 11743

Sunday, July 20th at 12:00 PM

In the middle of July 1776, the Declaration of Independence was read to the public at Huntington's Village Green. The crowd made an effigy of King George III, hung it from a Liberty Pole on the green, and then set fire to the "King" until the gunpowder-filled effigy exploded. The free event will include a reenactment of the events that took place on the Village Green. There will also be children's activities. All ages welcome! Rain date: August 20th, 2014.

Fun You Can Enjoy All Weekend Long!

No matter how you'd like to enjoy the weekend, there will be plenty of fun happening here on Long Island. If you're looking for something a bit more low key, then you're in luck! We've rounded up some great ways to enjoy the 4th of July, and the long weekend! So get ready to kick back, relax, and have some fun!

Enjoy one of LI’s Beautiful Beaches

Nothing says Long Island Summer quite like a trip to one of our beautiful local beaches. This Independance Day, thousands will flock to Long Island's shores for some fun in the sun - and with good reason! Not only can you enjoy the beautiful weather & spend some time swimming, but lots of our local beaches are prime places to watch firework displays from!

Plan the Perfect Patriotic Picnic

Go Swimming at the Local Public Pool

Looking for a way to beat the heat without making a trip down to the beach? No problem! Long Island is home to lots of local public pools in both Nassau & Suffolk - many of which will be open for the holiday, and all summer long!

Enjoy a day of Fishing out on the Sound or the Bay

Throughout the holiday weekend, there will be plenty of fishing excursions setting sail on party boats on both shores. If you're looking for a way to enjoy some summer fun that is a bit more low key, then a fishing excursion is the perfect escape!

No matter how you choose to celebrate this holiday, make sure you stay safe while you're having fun. Protect yourself from excess sun exposure, know your limits, make sure the family is in the know about Swimming Safety, and leave the fireworks to the professionals.

From all of us here at LongIsland.com, have a happy, healthy & safe 4th of July!



How will you be celebrating this Independance Day?

Let us know in the comments below!



Video of 2013 Northport 4th of July Firework Celebration by Johnny Mac, via YouTube.