NEW YORK (WABC) -- The Fourth of July marks a major milestone for America as we mark 250 years and New York City and the Tri-State will celebrate all week.
From spectacular fireworks to special exhibits and patriotic parades, we have everything you need to know to mark the momentous occasion.
And Disney is Celebrating America like never before, starting Friday night at 8 and then at 10, David Muir reports live from the Statue of Liberty. After Eyewitness News at 11-- the final countdown is on with "Party Across America," from Bourbon Street to the Vegas Strip to Times Square with Sam Champion as the ball drops to ring in July 4th.
Coverage continues all night and as day breaks on Saturday-- David Muir traces our nation's amazing history. After a special GMA, Hometowns and Heroes goes cross-country on America's westward expansion. Then ESPN covers Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating contest and ABC News and National Geographic present the Seven Natural Wonders of America.
At 5, ESPN's SportsCenter celebrates sports stories that shaped America and after a special edition of World News Tonight-- join Ryan Seacrest for "Nashville's Star Spangled Bash." Music's biggest stars will perform live and one of the largest fireworks celebrations in the nation. Again-- it all starts Friday night on Channel 7.
"World News Tonight" anchor David Muir kicked off ABC News' celebration of America's 250th birthday by climbing up through Lady Liberty's right arm to reach the torch, standing over 300 feet in the air.
Fleet Week is an iconic part of summer in New York City, and this year, it coincides with Sail4th 250 celebrations.
Sandra Bookman has a look at this year's festivities.
The NYPD announced Friday that the upper level of the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge will be closed to traffic Saturday from 9:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Police say it is in an effort to ensure public and traffic safety during the Sail4th 250 parade.
The lower level will remain open.
A special preview took place at Jones Beach on Friday as we count down to America's 250th birthday.
Eyewitness News reporter Krista McNally got a sneak peek at preparations for the FourLeaf Air Show, which is set to include performances from flight teams like the Blue Angels and the Golden Knights.
