Fourth of July in Brooklyn

This year marks the 92nd annual Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest (in 2007, current hot dog champion and "Mustard Yellow Belt" holder Joey Chestnut scarfed down 66 hotdogs in 12 minutes). Want to watch the eaters in action? The competition is world-famous, so expect to fight the crowds to get a good view. Festivities start at noon in Coney Island, at the intersection of Surf Avenue and Stillwell Avenue.

Expect to see plenty of red, white, and blue at this year's annual Brooklyn Independence Day Parade, which boasts marching bands, drummers, the Knights of Columbus, a ceremonial flag presentation, and more. The parade will last from 12pm to 1:30pm and will start at 76th Street and 3rd Avenue (ending at 101st Street and 4th Avenue). Call (718) 680-9216 for more information.

If the Nathan's hot dog eating showdown gets your appetite going, then head to Cafe on Clinton, where drinks will be half-price (with beers only $1 post-fireworks), and pork specials will abound. Call (718) 625-5908 for more information.

There might not be a better place to watch the city's fireworks than from the Bargemusic boat that's perched on the East River in DUMBO. Head to Brooklyn's very own floating chamber-music hall for a Fourth of July line-up that includes music by Mozart, Dvorak, and more, and then take in the fireworks from the boat's rooftop. Tickets are $50 ($25 for students), and Bargemusic is located at Fulton Ferry Landing, near the Brooklyn Bridge.

The Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks Show is a New York tradition that you won't want to miss. While the fireworks can be seen throughout New York City, some of the best vantage points are located in Brooklyn. Head to the Brooklyn Heights promenade, or pack an evening picnic and hit either the Louis Valentino, Jr. Park and Pier in Red Hook or the Empire Fulton Ferry State/Brooklyn Bridge Park in DUMBO. The display will begin at approximately 9:20pm.