Fourth of July - Celebrating Independence Day in Queens

• IMPORTANT - The fireworks in 2011 will not be over the East River this year, but over the Hudson. Queens, we are out of luck. Not Long Island City, but Jersey City will be the best place to see fireworks July 4, 2011. Rats!

Fourth of July fireworks are an American tradition and a New York hallmark. Every year the Macy's fireworks show over the East River attracts thousands of spectators to crowded Manhattan streets. But it turns out the best place to see the fireworks is across the river in Long Island City, Queens.

Here's a guide to 4th of July fireworks and all Independence Day celebrations in Queens, New York.

Get an early start to July 4th weekend with live music and fireworks in Astoria Park on Monday, June 30. The Central Astoria Development Corporation sponsors this early Independence Day celebration. There will be live music from the Astoria Symphony Orchestra.

• When: Thursday, June 30, 2011, music starting at 7:30 p.m.
• Where: Astoria Park, on the waterfront in Astoria, between Hoyt Avenue and 22nd Road.

Afterwards, stop by the Bohemian Beer Garden or go out for a late dinner in Astoria.

• Forest Park Foraging - Gather your own food with "Wildman" Steve Brill to celebrate Independence Day.

• Skyline Princess - Dinner and fireworks cruise out of the Flushing Meadows Park marina.