Macy’s Fireworks Live Stream 2024: How to Watch NYC’s Fourth of July Event Online

Summer is in full swing, and it’s time to celebrate America. The Fourth of July commemorates the Continental Congress’ ratification of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Fireworks are associated with the holiday. Since 1976, Macy’s has been putting on a show for the country in New York City. Here’s some history and how to see it for yourself.

Why do we celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks?

Natural firecrackers Pave the way According to the American Pyrotechnics Association, people used bamboo stalks that exploded with force due to hollow air pockets to ward off evil spirits in Liuyang, China in the 2nd century B.C.

According to the American Psychological Association, it is believed that between 600 and 900 AD, a Chinese alchemist took things a step further. He combined potassium nitrate, sulfur, and charcoal to make the first gunpowder, put the mixture in bamboo, and made the first fireworks.

The invention spread to Europe in the 13th century. By the 15th century, nightly entertainment shows had become a popular pastime. Early settlers brought them to the United States. From the beginning, loud noises were part of the Fourth of July celebrations.

How did Macy’s get into the fireworks business?

According to Untapped New York, Macy’s is the first store used fireworks To celebrate its 100th anniversary on July 1, 1958. It is estimated that one million people came to watch the parade over the Hudson River. In 1976, Macy’s teamed up with the Walt Disney Company to celebrate America’s bicentennial. The event was so popular that an annual tradition was born and began airing on television in 1991.

It’s hard to believe now, but when the annual event began, one person lit all the fireworks using a metal rod. These days, computers ignite the fireworks shells—a record 60,000, according to this year’s count—with the help of more than 50 miles of cable.

Where to Watch the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks in Person

this is the first time Since 2013 The fireworks will be displayed over the Hudson River. For the past 11 years, the display has been held over the East River at the request of former Mayor Bill de Blasio. In 2024, they will be launched from barges on the Hudson River between West 14th and West 34th Streets.

The best place to watch the parade in person is in Manhattan near the West Side Expressway on the strip between West 14th and 34th Streets. You can also watch the parade on the New Jersey side of the Hudson River from Hoboken, Weehawken and Jersey City.

Where to watch if you’re not in New York or New Jersey

For those of us who can’t be there in person, NBC has you covered, starting at 8 p.m. ET. Traditional cable subscribers and those with a wireless antenna can tune in. Watch the show live On the NBC broadcast network.

Rope cutters can broadcast the event on peacock.

If Peacock isn’t in your streaming arsenal, you can also access NBC through a live TV streaming service like Hulu with Live TVwhich offers a three-day free trial for new subscribers. NBC is also available on sling, YouTube TVand other services.

This year’s event will be hosted by Grammy-nominated country singer Mickey Jetton and entry to hollywoodIn addition to the fireworks, the two-hour special will include performances by Lenny Wilson, Luis Fonsi, Tanner Adell and The War and Treaty Band.