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NEW YORK. – Once again, New York City is preparing to host one of the most impressive Independence Day celebrations in the entire United States.
Macy's traditional fireworks show returns this Thursday, July 4th, to the East River, in its 49th edition, with an unprecedented display: 80,000 multicolored explosions will illuminate the sky for 25 minutes.
After taking place in 2024 off the coast of New Jersey, the event returns to its iconic stage between Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, with strict security measures reinforced by the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), due to recent alerts about potential internal threats and international conflicts.
The show, which will start around 9:25 p.m., promises an unparalleled visual experience: 50,000 fireworks will be launched from barges located along a mile on the East River, while another 30,000 will emerge directly from the legendary Brooklyn Bridge, creating the effect of a "luminous waterfall", as detailed by Gary Souza, show designer, to ABC News.
In addition to the aerial detonations, this year will include animations projected onto the bridge towers, in sync with music and light shows. "It will be like seeing a moving work of art, a concept never before shown," said executive producer Will Coss.
Technological innovations will allow for new pyrotechnic choreographies. "We will be launching completely new shells that change color and shape in mid-flight. Our goal is to surprise and excite," added Souza.
The show will be broadcast nationwide on NBC and Peacock, within a two-hour television special (from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m.), which will feature musical performances by the Jonas Brothers, Lenny Kravitz, Eric Church, Ava Max, Trisha Yearwood, and Keke Palmer. The show will be hosted by actress and singer Ariana DeBose.
Although Macy’s has not disclosed the total budget, it is estimated that the cost of the fireworks alone exceeds $6 million.
The New York City Hall has enabled free viewing spaces at key points such as Brooklyn Bridge Park and piers 16 and 17 in Manhattan. The spectacle can also be appreciated from sections of the FDR Drive and the banks of Brooklyn and Queens. It is recommended to arrive well in advance, as many streets will be closed hours beforehand, and crowds are expected.
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, tickets are offered on cruises, bars, and terraces with a direct view of the spectacle.
