Fireworks light up West Palm Beach

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — Fireworks lit up the West Palm Beach skyline at the annual Fourth on Flagler holiday event, Tuesday.

As America celebrates its 241st birthday as a nation, thousands of people packed the West Palm Beach Waterfront to enjoy the patriotic sights and sounds.

It’s an event Ratile Matloporo came all the way from South Africa to see.

"I'm enjoying it, It's totally different from my country. And I love it right here,” said Matloporo.

Teresita Strout noticed the stepped-up security.

Large trucks barricaded streets to prevent people from driving through the crowd is something new this year, according to West Palm Beach police.

It’s typically seen in larger cities like New York and Boston.

“Safety is always a priority of us, as a family with little kids, I encourage the safety and I appreciate them doing that,” said Teresita Stout.

Organizers said this is the best year yet.

“It's really cool because it has a lot of food and for the kids to come play here. And the fireworks are awesome,” said Luisa Paredes.

The city of West Palm Beach takes pride on hosting an event that has become a must-see on this holiday.

“It's Americas birthday but I'm okay to share Americas birthday with my birthday,” said Derek Schwartz.

After the big event comes the beginning of cleaning up the aftermath of 4th of July.

Crews will be picking up trash and packing away tents through the night.

Roads on Flagler Drive, between Banyan Boulevard and Fern Street are expected to open at 8:00 a.m.