How To Watch Macy's July 4 Fireworks Live From NYC

NEW YORK CITY – This year's Fourth of July fireworks display will look a little different. The throngs of spectators that usually line the riverbanks seeking out the best views will be absent and, instead, the annual Macy's Spectacular will be best seen on a live television broadcast.

The special, which will be broadcast on NBC, will begin at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday and will follow a series of weeklong surprise displays fireworks that have been popping up across all five of the city's boroughs.

The televised display is designed to allow all New Yorkers to enjoy the fireworks without creating crowds – and a risk of spreading the coronavirus.

The special will be hosted by TODAY anchor Craig Melvin and will feature performances by National Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman, the Black Eyed Peas, The Killers, Lady A, John Legend, Time McGraw and Brad Paisley.

An encore presentation will follow at 10 p.m.

New Yorkers who do not have cable or satellite TV can watch the fireworks display through live streaming services such as Sling, Hulu Plus, YouTube TV and AT&T TV. Be sure to check that you can access the local NBC station from your streaming service.

Residents who live in an area with good reception can watch NBC for free just by attaching an indoor antenna to nearly any TV.