Macy's NYC July 4 Fireworks: 2018 Guide

NEW YORK, NEW YORK — At least 75,000 fireworks will ignite the night sky over the East River July 4 for the biggest celebration of our nation’s 242nd birthday.

About 3 million viewers will gather at the East River shores in Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn, tilting their heads upward in awe as the colorful explosions blast skyward from seven barges — two more than last year. Millions more will be watching on TV from their homes.

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This year’s 25-minute extravaganza starts at approximately 9:25 p.m. and will be the largest display in 18 years since the Macy’s Millennial celebration in 2000, according to a statement from organizer Macy’s. The display will shoot off about 3,000 fireworks per minute.

Can't make it to watch the fireworks in person? Tune in to see them live on TV.

New this year are 25 colors and effects that include neon pinwheels, swirling water fountains, brocade horse tails, ghosting fans, blooming ring chases and pulsing hearts.

“Macy’s Fireworks continue to grow in artistry as we ignite the night for the nation’s premiere Independence Day celebration,” said Macy’s spokeswoman Susan Tercero. “This year’s showcase will be one for the record books.”

The 42nd annual Macy’s event is back for its fifth straight year on the East River since its five-year move to the Hudson River from 2009-2013.

Official viewing locations have now been announced, and the fireworks will be launched from barges lined up in Midtown between 23rd and 42nd streets. Those who can get close to the shore from any of those 20 Manhattan streets should get a prime view if the official viewing locations are a bit too overcrowded.

The official viewing locations are:

• 42nd Street and FDR Drive
• 34th Street and FDR Drive
• 23rd Street and FDR Drive
• 18th Street and Avenue C
• Houston Street and FDR Drive

The display can be seen by those across the river from the western shores Long Island City, Queens between 50th and 54th avenues, and on the shore of the river at Greenpoint, Brooklyn between Green and Ash streets or from the Greenpoint Playground at 243 Franklin St.

Kelly Clarkson will make a special appearance to sing “God Bless America” with support from 146 singers and musicians that make up the West Point Band Orchestra and Glee Club as tribute to the Irving Berlin song’s 100 birthday.

“The awe-inspiring tribute by Ms. Clarkson will be the show’s emotional and pyrotechnic centerpiece serving as the backdrop for Macy’s famed Golden Mile,” the Macy’s statement read.

Be sure to arrive as early as possible if you want to secure a stellar spot. As areas may quickly become crowded— particularly in Manhattan — streets will be closed off and spectators will be redirected to other viewing points along FDR Drive.

More information on this year’s fireworks display can be found here. If you'd prefer to attend a more local display, check out this list of legal, FDNY-approved fireworks displays across the five boroughs.

Photo courtesy of Dmytro Balkhovitin/Shutterstock.com