“It’s About Damn Time!” Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks to Return to Hudson River After 11 Years

This summer, the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks are coming back to the Hudson River for the first time since 2013. Announced in a press release today, the 48th annual spectacular will feature thousands of shells and an array of effects that are sure to delight Hell’s Kitchen residents who have missed seeing the display from local rooftops and riverside. 

Will Coss, Executive Producer of Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, said: “Each year the talented artisans and specialists at Macy’s Studios work alongside our partners at Pyro Spectaculars by Souza to find creative and innovative ways to paint the night sky.” The barges will be located off Piers 62/63 (W22/23rd Steet) in Chelsea, but viewing spots can be found up and down the Hudson. 

“I am so excited about this, I’m starting to plan my party now! This is awesome, and it’s about damn time!” said Hell’s Kitchen entrepreneur Peter Shankman, who added, “We’re talking Bloomberg days since the last time fireworks were on the West Side!”

Piers 76 and 84 are sure to draw crowds of spectators for the display. On April 1, locals flocked to Pier 84 for another light show, sponsored by General Electric, using drones to create various images illustrating GE’s business ventures. The Equinox Hotel at Hudson Yards hosted an exclusive viewing party.

Started in 1976 for the United States Bicentennial celebration, the Macy’s 4th of July display has historically taken place on the East River. In 2009, for the 400th anniversary of explorer Henry Hudson’s arrival in the area, the fireworks were moved west to the Hudson River where they stayed for the next four years. 

During Mayor Bill de Blasio’s administration, after much outcry from Queens and Brooklyn residents, the fireworks once again moved back to the East River and Jersey City’s display became the main feature on the Hudson, though much further south and out of range for many Hell’s Kitchen viewers.