Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks moves this year to the Hudson River from the East River for the first time in 11 years, making it easier for thousands of New Jerseyans to check out the spectacle in the sky, but less easy for those in Queens.
The shift also makes it easier for Manhattan’s West Siders to get a good view, and less necessary for New Jersey to try to compete with Macy’s with its own fireworks displays; from some of the eastern locations of Jersey, the fireworks launched over the East River have been visible. The fireworks are also broadcast on television. Weehawken, Jersey City, and Hoboken, N.J. should provide prime viewing of the fireworks, while in Manhattan, 14th to 34th Streets on the West Side provide excellent vantage. Like New York, New Jersey is a major market for Macy’s Inc. In both states, the retailer operates several Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s and Bluemercury stores as well as outlets.
Asked why Macy’s shifted the show to the West Side, Will Coss, executive producer of Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks, said in a statement: “For nearly 50 years, the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks has entertained New Yorkers and viewers across the country. Every year, we look to elevate the experience and find new and innovative ways to engage with our audiences. We are excited to move our show to the Hudson River and provide spectators with a new pyrotechnic experience featuring high flying shells, vibrant colors and heart-pounding sound. Many factors contribute to the choice of location including show design, size and scale of the pyrotechnics used, safety requirements and accessible viewing locations and more. While these elements change year to year, what remains consistent is the show-stopping entertainment we create for New Yorkers and the nation on Independence Day.”
“New Jersey is proud to celebrate Independence Day this year with a dazzling display of fireworks planned in collaboration with our neighbors across the Hudson,” New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, said in a statement. “For the first time in recent years, Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks will light up our sky above the Hudson River. We are excited to work with [New York City] Mayor [Eric] Adams and Macy’s to view the country’s largest Independence Day celebration from our backyard as we commemorate 248 years of nationhood.”
To produce the fireworks, artisans and specialists at Macy’s Studios work with Pyro Spectaculars by Souza. The fireworks are shot from barges in the river. Last year, Macy’s used a first-of-its-kind drone display, which recreated the illusion of the Statue of Liberty at one point.
Said Mayor Adams, “Every year, Macy’s illuminates the city’s skyline to commemorate Independence Day driving our city’s economy and supporting local businesses.”
Macy’s other two mega events during the year are the Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Flower Show.
