Delayed Philadelphia fireworks draw questions after storms push show into early morning

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia's Fourth of July fireworks display was held early July 5 after strong storms forced officials to clear the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, delaying the event for several hours.

Around 9 p.m., the city decided to clear the Parkway because of the weather. The show did not resume until about midnight, with fireworks launching around 2:30 a.m.

The late-night display prompted criticism from some residents.

"Having it in the early evening would have been sensible, and then concerts can go on to whatever hour," said Fairmount resident Eric Wickstrom.

Others offered theories about why city officials chose to continue with the fireworks despite the delay.

"I said, they had to get rid of those fireworks. They couldn't leave them. They couldn't take them away. They had to set them all off," said Fairmount resident Joan Kimball.

"I kind of think the mayor had to do this. This was her legacy and she owned it, and I think she did a good job," said Marsha Krouk, who also lives nearby.

Seeking answers about the decision, city officials said they committed to completing the event once performers agreed to return after the weather delay.

"Look, if those folks were willing to come back and do this, then we were going to make it happen no matter what," Philadelphia Managing Director Adam Thiel said.

Crowds returned following the rain delay to watch performers, including The Roots, Will Smith, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and Meek Mill.

Thiel also said the fireworks had to be launched once they had been prepared, citing safety concerns.

"It's not contracts, it's physics. Once you put those charges in the tubes, the safest way to get them out is to launch them. So the fireworks really do have to go," Thiel said.

The fireworks display ultimately proceeded in the early morning hours despite the unusual timing, following the weather-related interruption and the city's decision to continue the celebration.