Each year Macy's kicks off the world's largest fireworks display at approximately 9pm on July 4th. Four barges stationed between 23rd and 42nd Streets in the East River set off 20,000 aerial shells and special effects. There are electric set pieces on the barges, and the New York Fire Department gets in on the act with fire boats shooting red, clear, and blue water 300 feet over the river.
Where to catch the action

• TV and Radio: The fireworks will be televised nationally on NBC, and live spectators can tune in to 1010 WINS AM radio during the show for Macy's specially recorded musical accompaniment.

• Manhattan: Southbound lanes of the FDR drive from 14th to 42nd Street will be open for the public from 7:30pm to 10:00pm. On-ramp entrances for pedestrians (including the disabled) are located at 23rd, 38th, and 42nd streets. The FDR Drive will be closed to vehicular traffic between Houston St. and 63rd St. from 7:00pm until 1:00am.

• Brooklyn/Queens: Great views from Hunter's Point, Queens, Greenpoint, Brooklyn, and anywhere with an unobstructed view of the East River between 23rd & 42nd Sts.

• Watercraft: All spectator vessels in the East River must stay south of the Williamsburg Bridge or north of the Southernmost tip of Roosevelt Island. Vessels in Newton Creek should stay east of the Pulaski Bascule Bridge. For additional information, mariners should contact Macy's Marine Hotline at (212) 494-5247.
  
  For more information, call Macy's Hotline at (212) 494-4495.