US: New York launches 250th independence anniversary festivities with ship parade.

SHOTLIST: NEW YORK, US (JULY 3, 2026) 1. VARIOUS OF HISTORIC VESSEL FLOTILLA PASSING UNDER MANHATTAN AND BROOKLYN BRIDGES, SAILING DOWN EAST RIVER IN NEW YORK CITY AS SPECTATORS GATHER ALONG WATERFRONT PARKS TO WATCH AND PHOTOGRAPH PARADENEW YORK, US - JULY 3: Dozens of small vessels and Class B tall ships sailed down the East River on Friday, July 3, marking the official opening of the historic Sail4th 250 maritime festivities in New York City. The Small Ships Parade began near the Hell Gate Bridge and proceeded south toward Gravesend Bay in Brooklyn, drawing large crowds of spectators to waterfront vantage points including Brooklyn Bridge Park, Domino Park, and the East River Esplanade. The participating flotilla featured traditionally rigged sloops, schooners, and ketches. The maritime procession serves as the opening event for the United States' Semiquincentennial, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the nation's independence. The maritime celebrations will continue on Saturday, July 4, with the centerpiece International Parade of Sail featuring larger Class A tall ships and an International Naval Review on the Hudson River.