Esplanade fills with spectators waiting for the Boston Pops

BOSTON, Mass. (WHDH) -- A damp start to the Fourth of July did not dampen the spirits or energy of the crowd that always gets to the Boston esplanade first for the Boston Pops show. By dawn’s early light, the mad dash was on for the best seat on the esplanade.

Dion Breede said, “Get here early; that’s the strategy. Plan ahead, months ahead.”

For many, it’s a yearly tradition; Harriet Sesen has been going for 36 years. “Our first year was the bicentennial year,” said Sesen.

Bombs didn't burst in the air - but the U.S. army did do practice runs of their howitzers. They are set to perform in conjunction with the Boston Pop’s 1812 overture.

“In the 1812 overture there are certain points that you have to have the cannon fire or the tempo will be off. So we practice all day long. We’ll have three people on the piece,” said Lt. Mark Gauthier, Commander Cannon Firing, “One person will hand the round over. The other person will load the weapon. And then one person will fire it.”

The barges, full of fireworks, are set.

The security sweeps are done.

The folks who've been coming for decades know the drill.

“Years of practice, because at the end of the day if there is any grass showing someone wants to claim you’re real estate and if you’ve been hear all day you don’t want someone hanging half their south end when you’re heading north, on your area,” said TC Jones.

For America's birthday, it took the very brave to prepare for heat, possible thunder showers, and of course, a good time.

“This is my 25th year,” said Lance Horton who nabbed a spot front and center. “Rain or shine, have to be here after all these years. The concert happens and it's all worth it.”

Out on the water, 10,000 fireworks ready to go. Keith Lockhart said even though he does this concert every year, it's always different. This year Michael Chiklis will be there, and Jennifer Hudson will perform.

The folks behind the fireworks promised a great time. They said it will be extravaganza that starts with patriotic stuff, then some summer fun and a finale that has never been seen before.