Eyewitness News was in several locations across the Tri-State as people took a break to celebrate Independence Day and relax in the summer sun.
People on Long Island made their way to Jones Beach to soak in the sun and get a prime spot for the annual Jones Beach fireworks show.
Over 175,000 people were expected to attend the event.
"It's going to be a spectacular program," said New York State Parks Regional Director George Gorman. "There's a mix of traditional and modern music and it's going to be a great time."
Sunken Meadow Beach and Robert Moses State Park were also packed on Thursday, according to New York State Parks officials.
Ridgefield Park community celebrates oldest July 4th parade
Over in New Jersey, a spectacular parade got the holiday festivities going in Ridgefield Park.
That parade has been wowing residents for 130 years and is the oldest in the state.
"It gets better every year," said spectator Elizabeth Vangeldren. "It's a family affair."
Down at the Jersey Shore, people flooded the boardwalks for the great food and fun.
"I think we've been here a lot of years," said Long Branch's Shannon Feiter. "We come here a lot of years."
The festivities included the first annual WindMill Hot Dog eating contest -- but the contestants weren't quite as ambitious as those at the annual Nathan's Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating contest on Coney Island.
Hundreds trek to Jersey Shore for July 4th festivities
The first place winner put down six and a half dogs, albeit, extra large hot dogs.
But the main event will be a fireworks show on the beach Thursday night.
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