Police in towns along the Hudson River prepared Friday for an influx of visitors this holiday weekend, as waterfront residents prepared for their own guests.

Food will only be a small part of the Independence Day festivities, as the view from waterfront porches will be the main attraction. Houses facing the Hudson River will view this year's Macy's 4th of July fireworks display for the first time since 2000. Many residents say they are excited to see the show.

The fireworks show will get under way around 9:20 p.m. Saturday night.