I am a Canadian who will be in NYC on the 4th of July and it occured to me that July 4th is a BIG holiday in the USA! I am very excited about celebrating the 4th of July in your fine country. Will most shops/resturants/tourist sites etc. still be open? I have also heard that there is a massive fireworks display on the east river but can't seem to find any other information. Any advice on where to go to see the fireworks, and other suggestions on how to celebrate this holiday in New York would be greatly appreciated!

I haven't heard anything yet, but Macy's usually sponsors the fireworks and you are right, they are on the east river-usually between 14th-31st sts. or thereabouts. Try going onto Macy's website for more accurate info. Almost everything is open. It is a great display-three barges on the East River all fire off together. Enjoy!

I am sure that this year, the celebration is going to be something very special and very BIG!
We had an invitation to go to visit friends in California, but decided to stay home this year and enjoy New York

http://www.newyorkled.com/moreNYseasonal_4th_July.htm

Sam, I found this, hope it is helpful!K

Thanks everyone for the quick responses so far. KC, I 'll check out the website. Cheers!

Actually, except for the evening fireworks, you'll find things very quiet in New York City on July 4th. It's almost eerie!

I noticed that some theatres are dark on July 4. I'm assuming though that most tourist sites and eating establishments will be open and maybe a few shops too. It also looks like there are a few celebrations throughout Manhatten which will be neat to see...