Which city hosts the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks?

The Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks are held in New York City. The display is usually launched from barges on the East River or Hudson River, creating a skyline backdrop across Manhattan and nearby boroughs.

Macy’s has sponsored the Independence Day fireworks annually since 1976, apart from 1986, when the city’s celebration formed part of Liberty Weekend marking the restoration and centenary of the Statue of Liberty. The first Macy’s fireworks show in New York City was held in 1958 for the department store’s 100th anniversary.

The televised special began on WPIX in 1983 and was nationally syndicated from 1991. In 2000, it moved to NBC, where it has continued as the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular.

A common mix-up is Philadelphia’s nearby Wawa Welcome America celebration, another major Independence Day event. Macy’s display is specifically identified with New York City, even though its launch location within the city can change from year to year.