The iconic Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks show is making a return to the Hudson River after nearly a decade, sparking mixed reactions from residents on both the East River and Hudson River sides of Manhattan. The show was originally moved to the East River as officials believed it would be more accessible to a larger number of New Yorkers. However, some residents are relieved to see the fireworks moving back to the Hudson River, as they are tired of dealing with crowds and traffic associated with the event.
Residents of Long Island City and Roosevelt Island, in particular, are looking forward to a quieter Independence Day without the influx of tourists that typically accompanies the fireworks show. Some residents have even expressed frustration with having to prove their residency to get around roadblocks set up by the NYPD on the day of the event. Despite the inconveniences, the decision to move the fireworks back to the Hudson River has not been met with universal approval, with some East River residents disappointed to see the show go.
The exact reasons for the change in location for this year’s fireworks show are unclear, with Macy’s citing factors such as show design, safety requirements, and public viewing locations as contributing to the decision. Mayor Eric Adams has stated that the decision was entirely up to Macy’s as they are the ones organizing and funding the event. The fireworks show has moved between the East River and Hudson River multiple times since its inception in 1976, with various factors influencing the location choice.
Residents on the Hudson River side are eagerly anticipating the return of the fireworks show, with many nostalgic for the days when they could view the spectacle from their own rooftops. Some have expressed excitement at the prospect of hosting viewing parties and enjoying unobstructed views of the fireworks display. The wide-open expanse of the Hudson River is seen as an ideal location for the fireworks show, with some residents looking forward to welcoming neighbors from across the river in New Jersey.
Overall, the decision to move the Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks show back to the Hudson River has stirred up a range of emotions among Manhattan residents. While some are relieved to see the show return to their side of the city, others are disappointed to lose the iconic display from their own neighborhoods. Whether on Team East or Team Hudson, residents are preparing to celebrate Independence Day in their own unique ways, with some planning viewing parties, while others are looking forward to enjoying a quieter holiday in their secluded neighborhoods.
