How to celebrate Americas 250th birthday on July 4 in NYC

Happy birthday, America!The US is turning 250 years old this week — and the Big Apple is celebrating for days to come.Local parties ranging from the largest naval parade ever to a spectacular performance by the Blue Angels are slated for the special occasion, with countless other events scheduled across all five boroughs, too.Here are some of the biggest ways for the public to enjoy the nation’s milestone birthday in New York City.A once-in-a-lifetime flotilla will feature 80 ships and 150 aircraft from international militaries in a blockbuster celebration that will last six days.The Grand Parade of Sail will serve as the centerpiece of the week, making for the largest parade of vessels to ever sail into the Port of New York and New Jersey.The traditional celebration where active-duty maritime soldiers visit the Big Apple is being pushed back six weeks to not only coincide with America’s semiquincentennial but to bring the largest-ever International Naval Review to fruition.Members of the US Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard will dock in New York Harbor on July 3 and stay through July 8.On July 4th morning, the Navy will host the International Naval Review — a solemn ritual that presides over 53 US and foreign warships before they continue on their voyage up the Hudson River.The public will be invited to tour the impressive vessels and can expect military demonstrations such as live search-and-rescue aviation displays and drill team performances.The Navy’s Blue Angels will take to the skies above the Port of New York and New Jersey on July 4.The United States Navy’s elite flight demonstration squadron will lead the International Aerial Review, which will feature more than 100 US and allied aircraft.Typically, the elite team soars their Super Hornets above Jones Beach on Long Island to commemorate Memorial Day but moved back that annual show to honor America’s 250th birthday.The Times Square ball will drop at midnight EDT July 3 into July 4 in New York...