July 5, 2008 Boston celebrates July 4th in style Play video

(NECN) - The city of Boston celebrated the nation's birthday in style this year, led by the Boston pops.

More than a half-million people gathered in the heart of the city to watch the colorful display of fireworks light up the Charles River.

Late Show host Craig Ferguson emceed this year's 35th free outdoor show, which also featured a flyover by two F-15 jets, singer Rascal Flatts and of course, the Boston Pops along with conductor Keith Lockhart.

Rain was in the forecast for Friday night's events, but the skies held to allow one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in Boston's history to go off without a problem.