Events Will Include Largest Fleet of Tall Ships Sailing Into New York Harbor, Massive Aerial Show and Fireworks
Weekend Will Also Include Family Friendly Sightseeing Cruises and Ship Tours
20,000 Sailors Expected in New York City
Governor Kathy Hochul today helped announce major events in New York for the upcoming celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
Governor Hochul appeared at the South Street Seaport Museum with Sail4th 250, which organized the upcoming events, as well as New York City, Navy and Coast Guard officials to detail the July 3-8 plans.
“New York played a pivotal role in America’s fight for independence so there’s no better place to mark the 250th birthday of our nation,”Governor Hochul said.“We remain a beacon of hope and freedom for those around the world, which is why we are excited to welcome the tens of thousands of people who will be visiting our state to celebrate this momentous occasion with us.”
The highlight of the weekend will be the largest parade of tall ships ever assembled. Vessels from 40 nations, including places like Italy, Peru and India, will take part in the parade, which will be led by America’s tall ship, the US Coast Guard cutter, Eagle.
The ships will arrive on July 4 and, led by Eagle, will sail under the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge one after the other, with each ship about six minutes apart.
They will then travel to the George Washington Bridge, turn and proceed down the river to their respective piers throughout New York City.
The amazing spectacle is expected to last 2.5 hours.
Starting July 5 through July 7, there will be sightseeing cruises andfree toursoffered of the tall ships around the city.
Tour locations include Brooklyn Bridge Park, Sail City, South Street Seaport and Stapleton Park.
To avoid long lines, reservationsare highly recommended.
In addition to the tall ship parade and tours, there will be an international aerial review on the morning of July 4 that will feature U.S. and international fixed and rotary wing aircraft that will fly in formation over the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, above the Hudson River, and over the tall ship parade.
The famed Blue Angels will lead the review.
Prior to the tall ship parade on the morning of July 4, the Acting Secretary of the Navy will board the USS FARRAGUT, and proceed slowly past about 30 U.S. and allied military vessels all at anchor on the west side of the Hudson River.
An aircraft carrier, the USS NIMITZ, will also participate in The International Naval Review.
The International Naval Review has only occurred six times previously in U.S. history.
All told, there will be more than 40 tall sailing ships from around the world, more than 30 naval vessels, nearly 200 aircraft, and 20,000 sailors coming to New York.
On the night of July 4, Macy’s will produce its 50th annual fireworks display from four barges in the East River and two near Jersey City.
Governor Hochul announced that there will be enhanced security measures throughout New York, with the State, New York City, the Navy and Coast Guard doubling down on counter-drone operations and security across land and water.
The U.S. Coast Guard Sector New York has issued five Marine Safety Information Bulletins covering waterway restrictions, safety zones and operational guidance for mariners that will be in place July 1 through July 9.
The bulletins can be found at the Northeast Coast Guard District’s Local Notice to Marinerswebsiteunder the special notices section.
In preparation for the historic festivities, New York State in the FY26 budget allocated $2 million to Sail4th 250 plus an additional $350,000 Market NY grant.
Sail4th 250 anticipates there will be six million spectators on 15 miles of waterfront for a total projected economic impact of $2.85 billion, including $730 million net new economic impact for New York City.
Sail4th 250 President Chris O’Brien said, “It is an honor to welcome Governor Hochul as we begin one of the most exciting weeks in New York History
The international fleets have formed — and they will be in our waters before we know it.
Everyone on team Hochul has been instrumental in helping Sail4th 250 prepare for this tremendous American milestone as we mark our Semiquincentennial.
This is going to be one heck of a 250th birthday party”
New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin said, “New York City helped shape the story of America’s founding, and 250 years later, it remains the place where the world comes together.
As we welcome millions of visitors for this historic celebration, we’re proud to showcase the history, diversity, and energy that define our city.
I thank Governor Hochul, Sail4th 250, and our many public safety and government partners for bringing this extraordinary celebration to life and ensuring New Yorkers and visitors alike can experience this once-in-a-generation moment.”
U.S. Coast Guard Sector New York, Sector Commander | Captain of the Port, Captain Jonathan A.
Andrechik said, “The Coast Guard is honored to be part of this momentous celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary.
We have worked tirelessly alongside our local, state and federal partners and the port community over the past two years to prepare for this historic event.
Our highest priority is the safety and security of participants and the public, while keeping the port operating safely.“
State Director of Major Event Operations Justin Brannan said, “Do it big or don’t even bother.
That’s New York.
What we are working to execute over a single 24-hour period for this year’s Fourth of July celebration will be absolutely colossal by any standard — the kind of event only New York could dream up — and one worthy of America’s 250th birthday.
Through it all, Governor Hochul’s first and foremost priority is public safety and every aspect of our planning has been driven by that commitment.
It’s going to be an awesome celebration.”