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Fireworks Viewership Soars for 250th Anniversary
6 Jul
Summary
- Annual Macy's fireworks saw a 59% year-to-year increase in viewers.
- NBC's live broadcast attracted 5.1 million viewers, up 42% from 2025.
- Fox News achieved its highest-ever ratings for Independence Day coverage.
This year's Fourth of July celebrations saw a substantial rise in viewership for televised fireworks displays as the United States marked its 250th anniversary. The annual Macy's 4th of July Fireworks special, broadcast across NBC, Telemundo, and Peacock, garnered 11.2 million viewers, a 59% increase from the previous year and the highest viewership since 2018.
The live airing on NBC from 8-10 p.m. ET attracted 5.1 million viewers, a notable 42% increase compared to 2025. Peacock users also significantly increased their viewing time for the event. Jesse Collins Entertainment produced the celebration, which featured music and inspiring moments.
Cable news also saw a surge in viewership. Fox News reported its strongest-ever ratings for Independence Day, drawing 3.3 million viewers in primetime. The network's coverage peaked with 5.5 million viewers between 11:15-11:45 p.m. ET during President Trump's speech. For comparison, CNN averaged 1.2 million viewers in primetime.
