Largest Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Ever Light Up NYC & NBC Screens
The 49th annual Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular will fire more than 80,000 shells over the Brooklyn Bridge and East River—around 1,000 feet high—starting at 9:45 p.m. ET (broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET) on July 4, 2025. Expect dazzling new effects like “crackling crown jellyfish,” “atomic rings,” and “lemon cascades” alongside vivid color bursts.
How to Watch from Home
Tune in live from 8–10 p.m. ET on NBC or stream via Peacock. A Spanish-language version airs on Telemundo at 9 p.m. ET, and NBC will offer an encore at 10 p.m. ET for those tuning in later.
Star-Studded Lineup & Hosting
Academy Award–winner Ariana DeBose returns as host, backed by performances from big names like Jonas Brothers, Lenny Kravitz, Eric Church, Ava Max, Keke Palmer, and Trisha Yearwood. A 25-minute musical score produced by Questlove and James Poyser will synchronize with the fireworks, adding emotional momentum to the spectacle.
Where to View in NYC
New York City is giving away 100,000 free tickets for prime viewing spots at Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 16, and Pier 17. Locations along the FDR Drive, including ADA-accessible areas like Murry Bergtraum Field, also provide spectacular sightlines.
Safety & Security Measures
The event is classified as a SEAR Level 2 security occasion (national importance), with coordination between the NYPD, FBI, and other federal agencies. Authorities are on alert for potential threats such as vehicle-based attacks and unauthorized drone activity—though no specific plots have been identified.
Why It Matters
- A record-breaking show: With the highest-ever shell count and fresh pyrotechnic visuals, this is Macy’s most spectacular fireworks yet.
- Widened access: Free-ticket distribution lets more New Yorkers witness the show firsthand.
- Patriotic entertainment: A major network broadcast combined with high-profile performers and expert staging united into a shared national moment.
