BOSTON (AP) — Visitors were staking out their spots for the annual Boston Pops Fourth of July outdoor concert and fireworks show Thursday, one of the city's signature events, which was moved up a day because of potential heavy rain ahead of Hurricane Arthur.
Many had their umbrellas out, but they were more concerned with heat and strong sun. There were few clouds in sight, with temperatures in the 90s in the early evening.
Some early arrivals said they were visiting Boston for the first time and had planned their trip to catch the concert, one of the city's biggest events.
Many lined up as early as noon. Security officials began letting people on the park grounds about 4:30 p.m.
The performance takes place in the Hatch Shell along the Charles River Esplanade, with fireworks set off from barges on the river. Hundreds of thousands of people usually attend.
"It's not optimal. We wish it were, but we've got to deal with this," state police Col. Timothy Alben said.
He said security arrangements are ready, because the public final rehearsal would have been held Thursday night anyway.
The fireworks display will be streamed live for the first time starting at 8 p.m. on www.BOSTONPOPSJULY4.org and www.CBSBOSTON.com. The webcast also will be available for 24 days on demand at www.BOSTONPOPSJULY4.org.
The concert has been delayed in the past because of threatening weather during a performance, and the fireworks have been rescheduled.
Arthur is forecast to pass well east of New England beginning Friday night. Moisture bands ahead of the storm are expected to bring rain and thunderstorms.
Other Massachusetts communities also have rescheduled fireworks shows because of the weather.