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Thousands Gather to Experience Sail4th 250 in Hudson River Park

On Saturday, July 4, the Park welcomed thousands to our waterfront to enjoy a front row view of Sail4th 250, a once-in-a-generation event on land, sea and air. Tall ships, naval vessels and aircraft from around the world sailed on and soared over the Hudson River as part of America’s 250th Anniversary celebration. 

Crowds wave at tall ship with red and white sails sailing along Hudson River waterfront
Tall ship sails past Pier 25 and Pier 26 in Hudson River Park, photographed from above
Crowds wave at tall ship sailing along Hudson River waterfront
Crowds gather at tall ship sailing along Hudson River waterfront
Tall ships arrive in New York Harbor
Crowds gather at Pier 46 in Hudson River Park, greenery and the city behind
Tall ships sail into New York Harbor with red white and blue aerial display overhead
Tall ships sail into New York Harbor with aerial display overhead and Statue of Liberty in background

As we gathered to mark this milestone, the Hudson River waterfront — where New York City’s maritime history has unfolded for centuries — provided a fitting backdrop for a celebration on the water. Throughout the day, guests witnessed more than 30 tall ships sail north along the Hudson as well as an International Aerial Review overhead. 

Tall ship sails by crowd at Hudson River Park
Red planes in v formation fly overhead against blue skies leaving white trails
Tall ship sails by pier with people in Hudson River Park
Crowds hold phones up to capture view of planes trailing red white and blue overhead
Tall ship with red and white sails sails by crowd at Hudson River Park
Crowds gather at edge of pier in Hudson River Park to view tall ship sailing by
People hold phones up to capture view of planes trailing red white and blue overhead
Woman stands by railings by the water in white hat waves an America's 250th flag as a tall ship sails the Hudson River
Tall ships arrive in New York Harbor

In the evening, fireworks launched from barges near Jersey City as part of the 50th annual Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks display were visible from the southern portion of the Park, capping off a memorable day on the waterfront. 

Crowds gather at edge of Pier 26 to watch fireworks display over Hudson River
Crowds gather at edge of Pier 26 to watch fireworks display over Hudson River
young women stand at the edge of Pier 26 at night for fireworks; Lower Manhattan lit up in background
Crowds gather at edge of Pier 26 to watch fireworks display over Hudson River

As one of the city’s key public viewing locations for Saturday’s historic maritime display, Hudson River Park was proud to help connect people to this spectacular day on the river. Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebration, as well as to our staff and agency partners who worked together to create a safe, welcoming experience for all.

This is just the start of a season of celebrations in Hudson River Park. Our popular Broadway by the Boardwalk season kicks off on Monday, July 13, and be sure to mark your calendars for our annual Blues BBQ Festival on Saturday, August 15. Check our full events lineup for other ways to make the most of summer in Hudson River Park.