Where To Watch The Fireworks On The South Fork

Negotiating the Hamptons’ fireworks schedule can feel daunting. Who will be lighting up the sky this year, and when? With a little planning, you can see the best lightshows the East End has to offer — and if you’re really lucky, you may just make more than one. 

In Sag Harbor, the fireworks take place the Saturday before the holiday each year. Bring a blanket so that you can sit out on the grass, and bring food for the show — Sag Pizza, the Hamptons’ answer to Neapolitan-style pies, offers boxes if you want to take your food to go. If you’re lucky enough to score a seat, you can also eat outside at Dockside Bar & Grill, which will give you an unobstructed view of the fireworks — but you should definitely arrive early if you’re hoping to snag outdoor seating. 

On July 3 every year, the North Sea Fire Department hosts a spectacular display, which you can watch overhead from the North Sea Fire Department’s Carnival. The show begins at 10 p.m., an hour before the carnival closes. Before you head over to watch the lights, stop over at The Coast Grill for dinner on the water, where the sunset will blow you away. 

Montauk hosts one of the most incredible 4th of July fireworks displays on the East End, with the show taking place directly on the beach. Park in town and walk to the public beach access (there are several), where you will encounter bonfires for as far as the eye can see. Stop at Tacombi on your way over for some tacos and a margarita or two. It is within walking distance from the public beach, and provides a perfectly festive pre-fireworks atmosphere. 

The day after the holiday, fireworks lovers can enjoy the American Picnic with Fireworks by Grucci on Southampton’s Meadow Lane, with the display taking place over the Shinnecock Bay. Although the event is ticketed (entrance price includes a full carnival, dinner, and an open bar), you can see the fireworks from plenty of other places in Southampton. Drive down to the beach with sandwiches from Southampton’s Paul’s Italian Restaurant — one massive meatball sub is plenty of food for at least two people — and enjoy the show. 

For those who missed the holiday weekend but still feel like celebrating, The Clam Shell Foundation’s Great Bonac Fireworks, visible from Maidstone Beach, take place the Saturday after the holiday (this year, they fall on July 13). Drive directly onto the beach, if you car allows it, and bring along fresh seafood from Wainscott’s Seafood Shop (scallops and clams are an absolute must). If you don’t have your own portable charcoal grill, the locals will be happy to share. This fireworks display is more like a giant evening picnic, with plenty of fun for all. 

No matter what hamlet you’re in, there are fireworks for you. So choose one, or choose them all. The Hamptons is a spectacular place to celebrate this holiday.