Visitors from across America celebrate the Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular at Boston Esplanade

BOSTON — A sea of red, white, and blue on the Charles River Esplanade represented America’s 247th birthday in true Boston fashion.

“I heard it was the best in the country so that’s why we flew in,” said Alicia Helwig from Orange County, CA.

Visitors from across the country and around the world came to celebrate the Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular.

“As an out of towner I feel like it’s kind of magical to be celebrating the fourth of July in Boston what a treasure of American history here,” said John Jakubowski from Grand Rapids, MI.

Hundreds of thousands of people descended on the Esplanade for the beloved tradition, despite the steady rainfall earlier in the afternoon that caused the temporary closure of security checkpoints for several hours, and prompted a recommendation for those who had set up to voluntarily evacuate until the weather cleared.

“We were here since 2 p.m. in the afternoon and then suddenly police say everybody out,” said Boston resident Mayra Perez.

Less than three hours later the all-clear was given for everyone to come back in and the show went off without a hitch.

“This weather is great I know everyone can complain about it back home it’s 101 and 100 percent humidity this is like air conditioning for us,” said Myron Kilgore from Cincinnati, OH.

Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart described the energy on stage and in the crowd saying he doesn’t know any other way to spend the holiday.

“This is my 28th of them and I have to tell you this is one of the things of my job that never gets old,” said Lockhart.

Performances from Broadway Performer Mandy Gonzalez and country duo LOCASH were among those that captivated the crowd and headliner En Vogue really got everyone excited.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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