Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks Light Up Sky Over East River
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Millions of people lined both sides of the East River Saturday night for the Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular -- and it was certainly a spectacular sight to see.
"It was a celebration of America," said one spectator. "Fantastic. I loved it."
For 25 minutes, the new effects and bright colors wowed the crowds. Some are already planning to come back next year.
As WCBS 880's Jim Smith reported, some took in the sights and time to reflect on what the holiday means to them.
"I just started thinking how far we've come," said one onlooker.
With heightened concerns over possible terror threats, security was ramped up, but the show went off without a hitch, CBS2's Alex Denis reported.
New York City was on high alert this holiday weekend and the NYPD deployed up to 7,000 additional police officers to keep a close eye on the public.
Even though there were no specific threats toward��NYC, Police Commissioner Bill Bratton said this year's activities received greater security, 1010 WINS Gary Baumgarten reported.
"We have not any specific information at this time about any threat directed specifically at New York, but we have become increasingly aware over the last number of months," Bratton said Saturday as he briefed law enforcement officers prior to the fireworks display.
The big concern is a so-called lone wolf inspired by ISIS social outreach acting on his or her own with a knife, a gun or even as car as a weapon, Baumgarten reported.
"This is one of our larger operations during the course of the year and we're doing everything to ensure public safety but also public pleasure," Bratton said.
In Long Island City, Queens, the NYPD set up barricades along the promenade by the East River ahead of the fireworks.
"It's good to know in the back of your mind they're gonna be there to protect you," said resident Luis Okendo.
Tighter surveillance comes amid recent terror attacks overseas and threats from ISIS. The group has called on its followers to strike during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, ending on July 17.
"ISIS is very well outspoken about how much they hate our freedom, who we are as Americans. And July the fourth is one of those natural dates, while we're celebrating freedom, for them to try and poke us in the eye," said Sen. James Lankford.
Officials say there were no credible threats, but the FBI is warning authorities across the country to be aware.
"The intelligence community can't fight this by themselves. This is going to take a bigger participating in awareness," said Ron Hosko, former assistant director of the FBI.