In the weeks leading up to the holiday, Gary Souza and around 60 fellow pyrotechnicans are focused entirely on finalizing the 49th annual Macy’s show. But they are not strolling along the Brooklyn Bridge where it will take place, nor are they balancing aboard one of the four barges in the East River that will supply additional launch points.

Hosted by the Academy Award-winning Ariana DeBose, the 2025 Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks special is set to air live from New York City, where this year’s festivities will launch from four barges along the Lower East River. The event will feature performances by country singers, rockers, and Broadway stars alike.