Live updates on NYC's America 250 celebrations

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Last updated: Saturday, July 4, 2026 7:36PM GMT
ABC7 New York 24/7 Eyewitness News Stream

NEW YORK (WABC) -- The Fourth of July marks a major milestone for America as we mark 250 years.

From spectacular fireworks to special exhibits and patriotic parades, we have everything you need to know to mark the momentous occasion.

ABC is marking America's 250th anniversary with 24 hours of unparalleled programming called "Disney Celebrates America."

The multi-platform broadcast, led by ABC News "World News Tonight" anchor David Muir, features coverage across all 50 states, continues all day on the Fourth of July.

Key Headlines

Here's how the news is developing.
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8 minutes ago

PHOTOS: Tall ships in New York Harbor

Check out photos of some of the more than 40 tall ships representing at least 20 nations as part of Sail4th 250, celebrating America's 250th birthday in New York City.

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A New York Fire Department vessel sprays its water cannons in the New York harbor during ahead of Sail4th 250 Saturday, July 4, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
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8 minutes ago

Miki Sudo repeats as women's hot dog eating champ in Nathan's Famous contest

Miki Sudo captured her 12th title at the Nathan's Famous hot dog eating contest at New York's Coney Island on Saturday.

Sudo downed 38.75 dogs to win the annual event again. She also holds the women's record of 51 dogs.

Miki Sudo consume hot dogs during the 2026 Nathan's Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating contest at Coney Island in New York, Saturday, July 4, 2026. (AP Photo/Anna Connors)
Miki Sudo consume hot dogs during the 2026 Nathan's Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating contest at Coney Island in New York, Saturday, July 4, 2026. (AP Photo/Anna Connors)

Competitors consume as many hot dogs and buns as possible in 10 minutes, usually dunking the wieners in water first to make them easier to swallow.

Coverage of the men's competition airs at 12 p.m. ET on ESPN2, and will re-air on the same channel at 4 p.m. ET. ABC will simulcast coverage beginning at 12:30 p.m. ET for 30 minutes.

3:59 PM GMT

Lee Goldberg and John Del Giorno report from the water and high above the parade of ships

John Del Giorno joins Lee to report from high above the parade of tall ships.
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3:22 PM GMT

Vice President JD Vance participates in the International Naval Review

Vice President JD Vance participates in the International Naval Review aboard the USS Kearsarge in New York Harbor during celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Vice President JD Vance participates in the International Naval Review aboard the USS Kearsarge.
Vice President JD Vance participates in the International Naval Review aboard the USS Kearsarge.