Thousands of people showed up for the 44th annual July 4th festivities at the Empire State Plaza – one of the biggest Independence Day celebrations in the Capital Region.

The day kicked off with 29 people from 20 different countries becoming U.S. citizens. There was food and drink and live music, and crowds of folks who danced and enjoyed themselves in spite of the blistering heat.

The whole thing culminated with a fireworks display presented by Price Chopper and Market 32.

Photo credit: George Fazio.

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