Excitement filled the air Saturday as spectators entered the Esplanade to see the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular.
As thousands of people filled the Esplanade, grey skies rolled in and so did some raindrops. Umbrellas were out, tents were up and spectators tried anything they could to stay warm and dry.
But despite the bumpy start, nothing was taking away from the spectacular tradition.
In the sky, six members of the Navy SEALs Leap Frog team entertained the spectators, parachuting to the ground below.
Picking the right spot was the only thing on the minds of those who entered the Hatch Shell as soon as the gates were opened at 9:30 a.m. Michael Gardner traveled from New Jersey to make sure he got a good seat.
"The Pops and the fireworks - the fireworks are back that way, so this seems like the bet spot for both," he said. "This is best you can do."
Pops conductor Lockhart was ready to amaze the crowd. After having a successful dress rehearsal, he said spectators would be in for a treat Saturday.
Massachusetts
The latest news from around the state
"Even the Third crowd was up on its feet, and believe me, the Fourth crowd is much more pumped up," said Lockhart. "So I'm excited about tonight."
On guard, there were hundreds of Massachusetts State Police officers, joined by plain clothed officers, Secret Service and FBI agents. Housed in the Unified Command Center, more officers are keeping a close eye from the air and the ground.
"All of this is grated off, so if there's any situation that arises, it comes in here to the UCC, they can tell our folks on the ground precisely where to go and what the problem is," said Massachusetts State Police Col. Timothy Alben.
But people weren't worried about a security threat - they were there to enjoy their Independence Day.
As for the weather, the clouds rolled away and the sun moved in just in time to make it a picture-perfect evening.
