Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks

For a traditional Independence Day in Gotham, you can't beat this legendary spectacle, now in its 36th year. At around 9:20 p.m., Macy's will start exploding more than 40,000 shells during a 26-minute display over the Hudson River on the west side of Manhattan. This year's theme is "Ignite the Night" and will feature performances by Katy Perry and Kenny Chesney. The best spots are usually on the West Side Highway and 12th Avenue between 20th and 59th streets. Free. www.macy.com/fireworks.