But Chicago used to sparkle on July 3, too. Ever wonder why Chicago traditionally held its big Fourth of July fireworks display a day early? The answer is simple. Back when the city started its Independence Day fireworks show 35 years ago, the 4th was already taken.\
Queens didn't just lose a great view of the Macy's Fourth of July fireworks display when the department store moved the annual show from the East River.
The borough's booming businesses also took a hit.
"We're hoping Macy's will move it back," said Joseph Conley, chairman of Community Board 2 in Long Island City. "This is a great gift that Macy's gives the city, and we want to share in the upside of it."
For more than a decade, local merchants in the neighborhood got a boost from the crowds that flooded its streets to catch a glimpse of the fireworks.
Tony Mazzarella, owner of The Waterfront Crabhouse, said his eatery had used its prime fireworks viewing spot to host a fund-raiser for children's cancer charities.
"It was amazing, the crowds that used to come," said Mazzarella.
In 2009, the fireworks were moved from the East River to the Hudson River in honor of the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's historic voyage. The 2010 display was based there as well.
Macy's officials said the fireworks has changed locations over the years to accommodate different themes and maximize public viewing.
"This year's show design along the Hudson River celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty would not be possible on another waterway," said Macy's spokesman Orlando Veras.
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