Hundreds Of Thousands Show Up For Boston Pops July 4th Spectacular
BOSTON (CBS/AP) -- Hundreds of thousands of revelers with American flags and picnic coolers descended on the Esplanade in Boston for the annual fireworks show and Boston Pops concert.
About a half-million people attend the yearly event, which includes a traditional concert by the Boston Pops and a rendition of the "1812 Overture" during the start of the fireworks display over the Charles River.
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People started staking out spots on the Esplanade early Monday, and spent the day. Fans from all over the country showed up.
WBZ-TV's Alana Gomez reports on this year's rush to get a seat
This year's event featured actor Michael Chiklis and singer Martina McBride.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Lana Jones reports
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McBride put on a fantastic performance for fans despite short notice. She was a last-minute fill-in when Lionel Richie backed out due to a reported illness.
Chiklis became the first host with Massachusetts roots.
He was also the first host to perform with the Pops.
Chiklis co-wrote a song dedicated to US troops called "Til I Come Home."
