July 4 Fireworks: Where To Watch LIVE

Culture

America turns 236 this July 4, and what better way to celebrate than with fireworks! Although I encourage everybody to go see his or her local firework display in person, here are a couple of ways you can bring the light show to your own home:

The 36th Annual Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks in New York City

This year's show, titled "Ignite the Night," will take place on the Hudson River. Forty thousand fireworks will be accompanied by a 25-minute score with music chosen by America from artists including Taylor Swift, Whitney Houston, and Madonna. Katy Perry's and Kenny Chesney's live performances will not be too shabby either. Macy's has even created an app for iPhones and iPads where you can listen to the musical score live!

The 39th Annual Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular in Boston

Although CBS does not start broadcasting the event until late tonight, the wait will be worth it as the fireworks show should not disappoint. Eric Tucker, the pyrotechnic show director and designer, has experience at international events such as various Olympic ceremonies as well as several Super Bowls. This year's fireworks show will be accompanied by a musical score featuring the music of Lady Gaga, Lady Antebellum, and Coldplay, among others. 

A Capitol Fourth in Washington D.C.

Located on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building, this year's concert has so much to offer. In addition to a spectacular fireworks show above the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, the concert, hosted by Dancing With The Stars' Tom Bergeron, is stacked with stars (the headliners can be seen above). What's more patriotic than an Independence Day concert in our nation's capital?

If you take my advice and venture outside to go see your local fireworks display in person, kudos to you! Here is some information on where, when, and how to go to see some of the best firework shows in the country:

New York City: Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks

Boston: Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular

Washington D. C.: A Capitol Fourth

Gates open to this public concert at 3:00 p.m. at the southwest corner of the Capitol Grounds. For transit, security, and other information regarding the event, check out the FAQ section of PBS's website for the concert.

Chicago

Due to dry conditions in the Chicago area, many firework displays have been cancelled or postponed. For up-to-date information, check CBS Chicago.

Southern California

Since there are so many firework displays to chose from, let CBS Los Angeles do the work for you! Find the fireworks closest to you.