Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Show Returns With 80,000 Shells and Viewing Zones

Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Show returns to New York City for its 49th year, featuring 80,000 shells, new pyrotechnic effects, and star performances over the East River.

Riya Singh
Written By Riya Singh
News Writer
Annesha
Edited By Annesha
Managing Editor
The 49th Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks are ready to light up the NYC skyline (Source: Facebook @Macy’s)

Every year, New York City lights up the sky with an unforgettable Fourth of July fireworks show. Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks fill the night sky with vibrant colors in a must-see celebration.

Highlights

  • The 49th Macy’s Annual Fourth of July Fireworks is ready to take over NYC.
  • This year’s show promises new pyrotechnic effects, soaring firepower, and a high-energy performance lineup.
  • Hosted by Ariana DeBose, the performers are ready to pump up the energy.

49th Annual Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks

Macy's 4th of July Fireworks details
Visuals from Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks 2024 (Source: Facebook @Macy’s)

Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks is one of the city’s most anticipated annual events. The fireworks light up the night sky, attracting people from around the world. For almost five decades, these fireworks have been a highlight of this holiday. Now, it is ready to leave everyone’s jaws dropping with additions that will leave the audience stunned.

Time: The show begins at 8 p.m., and the fireworks at 9:45 p.m.

New Additions to the Fireworks

This year, the fireworks show brings 11 new effects. The fireworks will also be arranged in various hues and patterns, as 30 different colors have been added.

The lights are surely reaching new heights this year. The pyrotechnic firepower will reach an astounding 1,000 feet above the East River. Finally, a total of 80,000 shells will shine in the beautiful night sky at the event this year.

Star Performances Before the Vibrant Spectacle

Before the fireworks begin, a lineup of major artists will take the stage for a televised concert. Taking over NYC’s iconic Brooklyn Bridge, the event will welcome artists’ performances. Performers ready to light up the atmosphere include:

  • Ava Max
  • Eric Church
  • Jonas Brothers
  • Keke Palmer
  • Lenny Kravitz
  • Trisha Yearwood

Get the Best Live View

While the event is free to attend, prime viewing areas require tickets. This includes the Brooklyn Plaza and designated areas at Pier 16 and Pier 17 in The Seaport. But it might just be too late to get hold of the tickets now. So here are some of the best viewing spots that are free of cost:

  • The elevated areas of FDR Drive in Manhattan.
  • Montgomery Street at Madison Street along the FDR.
  • Murray Bergtraum Softball Field
  • Robert F. Wagner Place
  • Broad Street, Financial District

Several observation decks in the city will also host viewing events. One World Observatory and Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center are among the options. Meanwhile, the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt brings a more premium deal.

Avoid These Places for a Smooth Experience

Macy's 4th of July Fireworks details
Colorful fireworks taking over the NYC night sky (Source: Facebook @Macy’s)

Like every year, certain places need to be avoided by the public. These include:

  • Areas of the FDR in Midtown
  • The Battery
  • Battery Park City
  • East River Park
  • Hunter’s Point South Waterfront Park
  • Roosevelt Island
  • Governors Island
  • Gantry Plaza State Park

Apart from these off-limits areas, locals and visitors can expect a lot of street closures in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Public parking spaces will not be available near the access points.

Taking the train or the subway will be a better option during this time. Subway services will be increased before and after the event. Bus services will be rerouted, and extra trips will be available after the event.

Watch the Fireworks From Home

For those who wish to view the spectacle from the comfort of their homes, the live broadcast is available. The event will be aired live on July 4 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC. Apart from this, viewers can also watch the show on Peacock with the purchase of a subscription.

Tips for Attendees

Macy's 4th of July Fireworks details
Macy’s 4th of July fireworks attract people from around the world (Source: Facebook @Macy’s)

The show draws one of the largest crowds of the year, with thousands gathering across the city. The high temperatures and humidity in NYC are not to be taken lightly. Attendees are encouraged to stay hydrated at all times and carry a refillable water bottle to the public viewing locations.

There is also a list of items that one needs to avoid carrying to the viewing locations. The list is available on the website and mostly consists of items, including alcohol, drones, lawn chairs, etc.

The crowd this event brings together is no joke. Thus, attendees need to ensure their safety while enjoying the event. The Fourth of July brings a spirit of celebration and patriotism to communities across New York. Macy’s annual display promises another memorable night in the city that never sleeps.

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Riya Singh is a writer, editor, and poet with a background in literature and journalism. She has the passion and knowledge to create content tailored to this niche, with a strong interest in the intersections of psychology, storytelling, and human behavior.
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