Spectators flock to Brooklyn’s waterfront for NYC’s July 4th fireworks show

Security tight after warnings from officials

July 5, 2015 By Mary Frost Brooklyn Daily Eagle

Hundreds of thousands of spectators lined Brooklyn’s waterfront for the annual Macy's Fourth of July fireworks display. Photo by Mary Frost

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Hundreds of thousands of spectators poured into Brooklyn’s waterfront neighborhoods on Saturday to watch the annual Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks display.

Security was tight on the ground as police searched backpacks, purses and baby carriages after officials warned that large gatherings could be targeted by terrorists. Governor Andrew Cuomo had urged residents to “remain cautious of their surroundings and learn to recognize and report suspicious activity.”

Bag and backpack checks on Old Fulton Street. Photo by Mary Frost

But the lines were worth it to carefree celebrants who brought picnics and spread blankets on the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, in Brooklyn Bridge Park and in other waterfront areas.

Relaxing on the Brooklyn Heights Promenade before the show. Photo by Mary Frost

Balconies, rooftops and decks belonging to locals with a view of the East River were packed with partiers whose cheers echoed across the neighborhoods.

Matthew, a Binghamton University student seeing the New York City show for the first time, told the Brooklyn Eagle, “It was probably the best display I’ve ever seen.”

A visitor sharing the same balcony burst out, “Watching these fireworks makes me feel like I’m falling in love for the first time!”

Macy’s said the spectacle featured more than 50,000 shells set off from five barges on the river.

Taking selfies on Old Fulton Street. Photo by Mary Frost