The biggest celebration in the area was the Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks show. The 25-minute display lit up the sky over the East River, and with the Brooklyn Bridge as the backdrop, it was truly a spectacular sight witnessed by hundreds of thousands of spectators.

The final preparations are underway for the 49th annual Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks special for a night of dazzling pyrotechnics across New York City’s skyline, with a star-studded lineup of live performances by country artists,

Over the years, people always say, ‘Oh you work in the fireworks business! You must have all kinds of fireworks in your backyard.’ It’s kind of the last thing we want to do,” he tells Popular Science.

While watching fireworks is always the best thing about the holiday, there are some choice movies that go right along with this celebratory day. More news: Remembering Michael Madsen: Top 5 Movies of Beloved Actor's Career Here is a look at the top five movies to watch on the Fourth of July.

EW picks the 30 films that define the United States of America, from classics like 'Patton' to newer favorites like 'Hamilton.'

As Americans celebrate 249 years of independence with fireworks and barbecues, many businesses will be closed for the day.