On Thursday, July 4, crowds will flock to Manhattan's West Side to watch Macy's 4th of July Fireworks light up the night sky in honor of Independence Day. More than 40,000 fireworks will burst forth from four barges floating on the Hudson River, synchronized to an eclectic soundtrack of patriotic standards, and classic and current pop songs that were all handpicked by Grammy Award winner Usher. In fact, he even helped influence the design of the fireworks!

While it may seem like the holiday is a long way off, it's actually just three weeks away. Tickets for paid viewing options, like 4th of July fireworks cruises and watching from the deck of the Intrepid, are already on sale and going fast. Of course you don't need to spend a penny see the sparklers, but there are some important things to know before you go. We've got the scoop on how to find the best places to watch Macy's 4th of July Fireworks with your family.

It seems like every business in NYC offers birthday parties where little boys and girls can choose from a mind-boggling variety of themes and activities, from princesses to pools to pottery and a whole bunch of other options that don't even begin with the letter "p." There's certainly no shortage of great birthday party ideas, especially for preschoolers or young school-age kids. And, let's face it, most little kids will be happy just playing with their friends and some toys at the park or at home. But if you're the type who likes to go big, there are some super over-the-top party ideas that will certainly make your child's birthday a magical, memorable, only-in-NYC experience for kids (and parents).

We've come up with five over-the-top party packages in Manhattan where young kids can enjoy unique activities that are worth the splurge. You can find even more party inspiration to suit every budget in our Party Guide.

Enjoying a free alfresco film is a rite of summer in New York City. Even if you go to see a flick you've watched a million times at home, it's a totally different experience viewing it in the open air alongside a couple hundred other movie lovers. It ends up being a pretty thrilling communal event.

A few outdoor movie series, like RiverFlicks for Kids in the West Village, are aimed specifically at children. But even the big grown-up ones like Bryant Park and Brooklyn Bridge Park's Syfy Movies With A View include a family-friendly screening or two. Plus this year, the Central Park Conservancy is asking New Yorkers to pick which movies they want to see for the park's annual August outdoor film festival!

Movies usually begin at dusk between 8-8:30pm but make sure you arrive early: The well known series fill up fast. Plus, sometimes there is cool, pre-movie entertainment. So pack a picnic, bring your blanket, sit back, relax and enjoy the show at one of these outdoor summer movie series in NYC.