With the Fourth of July just one day away, people across the country are gearing up to watch the night sky dazzle with brilliant firework extravaganzas. One firework show, however, is arguably the best annual exhibition of all and it takes place in the heart of New York City.
Macy's is at it again, hosting the department store's 37th annual fireworks display, which might just be considered the largest in the nation. Millions of people are expected to gather on the West Side of Manhattan along the Hudson River to watch the festivities live.
This year's Macy's fireworks show will feature over 40,000 fireworks and the creative and pyrotechnic teams behind the grand display are collaborating with eight-time Grammy award winning music artist Usher. According to NBC, Usher is curating the overall design of the show, which this year is entitled, "It Begins With A Spark."
"From the rousing musical selections to the spectacular fireworks in the sky, Usher is putting his visionary stamp in the nation's biggest Independence Day party," NBC says on its official Fourth of July website.
Christian Today reports that the fireworks soundtrack will include songs such as "America The Beautiful," "God Bless America," and "The Star Spangled Banner." Hits from Rihanna, Kelly Clarkson, Jimi Hendrix, Frank Sinatra and others will also be played.
"I'm really excited to add my flavor to the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks...As an artist it's important that I expand creatively into new areas," Usher said. "Working on the score and fireworks design has been a great experience that's allowed me to share my voice in a new way. The 4th of July is a collective celebration of freedom and I hope that through the music and visuals, I've helped express the energy and passion of our nation."
NYC.gov reports that the Macy's show is scheduled to begin at approximately 9:00 p.m. It will reportedly last for about 20 to 25 minutes. The fireworks can be viewed from any area with an unobstructed view of the sky above the Hudson River. For the best view it's advised that revelers head to 12th Avenue below W. 59th Street. There will be access points along 11th Avenue at the following locations: W. 24th Street; W. 26th, 27th, 29th Streets; W. 33rd and 34th Streets; West 40th, 42nd, 44th Streets; W. 50th through 52nd Streets; and W. 54th, 56th and 57th Streets.
For those that can't make it to New York, NBC will also be airing the "Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular" at 8:00 p.m. Hosted by Nick Cannon of "America's Got Talent," the broadcast will feature performances by Mariah Carey, Tim McGraw, Taylor Swift, Cher, Pitbull and Selena Gomez. The two-hour show will be streamed live, and you can watch it here: