Large crowds take in Fourth of July fireworks on the Hudson River

More than 75 food trucks and vendors lined the streets as vendors look to come out and celebrate the Fourth of July. Mayor Steven Fulop says while many are having fun, the city's priority is making sure the event is safe for all.

Amanda Eustice

Jul 4, 2024, 4:51 PM

Updated 174 days ago

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At the intersection of Montgomery and Washington streets, no matter where you look, every street was blocked off in downtown Jersey City. More than 75 food trucks and vendors lined the streets as vendors look to come out and celebrate the Fourth of July.
"We came last year, and it was so much fun, and this year's seems bigger and better because the fireworks are kind over here this year," said Stephanie Norris, of Jersey City.
For others, it's their first time seeing the Macy's Fourth of July fireworks in person.
"We came from D.C. I drove Last night, four hours with these three because we knew that the streets were going to be blocked off. We came in and we got here at like midnight last night or so, and they all did awesome. Now we're ready to celebrate and have a good time," said Stacy Diamonds.
With the fireworks once again over the Hudson River, for the first time in more than a decade, the city is anticipating about 100,000 visitors to come out.
Mayor Steven Fulop says while many are having fun, the city's priority is making sure the event was safe for all.
"There are more than 500 police officers. We probably have a couple hundred firefighters on here and then traffic guards and whatnot. So, there are a lot of people out here from the cities side, both in uniform and plain clothes making sure that it's a safe and fun day," Fulop said.
Several artists also took the stage.
"Opportunity for people to come down here and just have a good time and eat just a lot of different food. There is a lot of things for the kids and then later in the day becomes a free concert with Fat Joe, Wyclef and Funkmaster Flex," Fulop said.
Carmen Padila, of Jersey City, and her family arrived early to make sure they were not stuck in traffic.
"We got here early because this opens at 12 and it's going to be super packed, and we wanted to be upfront to see it," Padila said.
"It's really great to have them over here. I mean even the fact that they were over on the other side, you still could kind of see them here, but nothing beats the New York City fireworks and the New Jersey fireworks, all on the Hudson, it is awesome. I can't wait and this will probably be the first time she'll be up cause last year she fell asleep," Norris said.
While the day was all about fireworks, food and fun, many people told News 12 it's also about spending tons of time with family.