Skyline, Sound, and Summer Heat: Magic Hour Hosts James Kennedy for Fourth of July Blowout

As New York braces for a high-octane summer, one venue is already setting the tempo. On July 4, Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge—perched 18 stories above the bustle of Times Square—will host internationally touring DJ and Vanderpump Rules star James Kennedy for a rooftop celebration that promises fireworks in every sense of the word.

Kicking off at 6 PM, the Independence Day event invites guests to dance into the night against a cinematic backdrop of skyline views, custom cocktails, and high-energy sets from one of reality TV’s most recognizable DJs. With unobstructed Empire State Building vistas and a front-row seat to Manhattan’s fireworks, it’s positioned to be one of the city's most in-demand rooftop experiences this Fourth of July.

Magic Hour is no stranger to spectacle. As New York City’s largest indoor-outdoor rooftop venue, it blends the electricity of Midtown with a year-round playground for curated nightlife. Located atop the Moxy Times Square, the venue features multiple bars, rotating seasonal installations, and one of the most iconic rooftop views in the city.

By day, it draws tourists and locals for brunch and photo ops. By night, it becomes a multi-sensory destination—frequented by celebrities, creatives, and rooftop regulars who know that the real magic happens after dark.

James Kennedy’s appearance marks a major booking for the venue. Known globally for his club-ready remixes, social media flair, and on-screen charisma, Kennedy brings both music and magnetism to the decks. His sets are known for their momentum—building energy with progressive house, pop remixes, and crowd-favorite drops that feel tailored to a rooftop dancefloor.

For fans of Kennedy or those simply looking for a pulse-pounding July 4 plan, this is more than just another fireworks party. It’s nightlife theatre—served up with skyline drama and designer cocktails.

This summer, Magic Hour is also in the midst of its Full Bloom installation—a seasonal takeover that transforms the rooftop into a surreal garden escape. Created by Geo Events, the same team behind the viral “Big Birk” installation, Full Bloom features a towering 12-foot floral bouquet, a reimagined carousel decked out in cascading summer blooms, and oversized botanical displays that give rooftop revelers the sense of partying inside a dream garden.

It’s no coincidence that Kennedy’s set aligns with the summer installation’s peak. With the Fourth of July celebration happening at the height of rooftop season, the combination of music, florals, and fireworks becomes something closer to immersive art than a standard nightlife outing.

Beyond the music and installations, the evening promises all the elements of a luxury rooftop event:

• Seasonal cocktails like Botanical Spritzes
  

• Bar bites including Wagyu Pigs in a Blanket and Lobster Rolls
  

• Firework views visible across the skyline
  

• Experiential photo moments throughout the floral-styled venue

The crowd? Stylish, social, and ready to document. Expect glam-forward outfits, curated group shots, and a steady stream of rooftop content capturing the night from golden hour through the grand finale in the sky.

Centrally located at 485 7th Avenue, Magic Hour sits in close proximity to Madison Square Garden, Penn Station, and Broadway—making it both accessible and aspirational. Unlike exclusive rooftop lounges that require months of planning, Magic Hour balances polish with spontaneity. Walk-ins are welcome, though reservations are strongly recommended for seated service—especially for high-demand events like this one.

For more details, visit Magic Hour Rooftop’s official site or follow along on social for live updates and event drops.