The nation’s largest 4th of July fireworks display returns to the Hudson River to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s voyage

Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® pyrotechnic splendor returns to the Hudson River for the first time since 2000 to celebrate America’s birthday with the nation’s largest 4th of July fireworks display. On Saturday, July 4, at 9:00 PM, Macy’s will create a showstopper like no other to honor the country’s independence and to kick off the 400th anniversary of the exploration of the Hudson River by Henry Hudson. American River, the theme of the 33rd annual Macy’s Fireworks will give more than two million spectators and millions of viewers nationwide America’s most spectacular showcase of brilliant colors, jawdropping effects and thunderous sound. It will feature approximately 40,000 shells exploding in a kaleidoscope of color at a rate of more than 1,500 per minute. The 26-minute display, designed in collaboration with SOUSA Fireworks, will be set off from six barges positioned between 24th and 50th Streets on the Hudson River giving New York City residents a stunning front row seat to America’s biggest Independence Day party.

"The Hudson River is where Macy's 4th of July Fireworks was born," says Robin Hall, executive producer, Macy's Fireworks, "and we're excited to return this year to be part of New York City's larger celebration of the 400th Anniversary of Henry Hudson's voyage of discovery aboard the Dutch vessel, The Half Moon."

The firework will be expertly synchronized to a rousing score featuring patriotic standards, classic river-themed works and original music. The legendary New York Pops, under the direction of Steve Reineke, will perform the musical score that features classics from Proud Mary to God Bless America, as well as the original composition American River Suite written by Broadway composer Stephen Flaherty and Macy’s creative director William Schermerhorn.

How to See the Fireworks

Spectators can catch the action coast-to-coast from the comforts of home by tuning in to Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular broadcast nationally on NBC-TV. The telecast begins at 9:00 PM (check local listings) and will feature a star-studded line-up of celebrities and performances by America’s most popular recording artists.

For best live views head towards 12th Avenue below 59th street. Access points along 11th Avenue include 24th Street, 26th through 30th Streets, 34th Street, 40th through 44th Streets 47th through 52nd Streets, and 54th through 57th Streets.

Note: The East River, Battery Park, Battery Park City and more are NOT viewing site.

Find complete viewing information at Macy's Fireworks Viewing

---

2009