Actor Will Smith picked up the bill for July 4 fireworks in New Orleans after learning city officials had no plans for a 2021 show, according to reports.
The Covid-19 pandemic put a stop to celebrations across the US last year, with some people staying home or having small gatherings to prevent the spread of the virus.
But the country has now fully vaccinated more than 150 million American adults and lockdown restrictions in several states have been lifted meaning families were able to find ways to get together.
This Fourth of July, America is back.
— President Biden (@POTUS) July 4, 2021
We’re headed into a summer of joy – of freedom – thanks to the millions of Americans who stepped up to get vaccinated. To the frontline and essential workers who have made this day possible: thank you. pic.twitter.com/g6cztrJDT8
It is believed Smith paid around $100,000 (72,175.00) for the fireworks showcase over the Mississippi River.
The actor is in New Orleans working on his latest film Emancipation which will tell the story of a slave named Peter.
New Orleans cancelled last year’s firework display because of the coronavirus pandemic.
But thanks to the father of three, locals had the opportunity to celebrate this year.
LaToya Cantrell, the Mayor of New Orleans, revealed the Hollywood star had splashed out for the occasion.
A fireworks display produced by "Go 4th on the River" will take place in New Orleans along the Mississippi Riverfront at 9pm Sunday, July 4, 2021🎆🎉
— Mayor LaToya Cantrell (@mayorcantrell) July 2, 2021
The gift of city fireworks was made possible by actor and producer Will Smith, along with his company Westbrook👏⚜️ pic.twitter.com/oWI8b8YOap
She wrote: “A fireworks display produced by “Go 4th on the River” will take place in New Orleans along the Mississippi Riverfront at 9pm Sunday, July 4, 2021.
“The gift of city fireworks was made possible by actor and producer Will Smith, along with his company Westbrook.”
Panama City Beach in Florida also celebrated with fireworks all along the 27-mile stretch of sand on Sunday night.
Spectators watched the annual Independence Day fireworks display outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art in Philadelphia.
The White House welcomed a party of around 1,000 people, including military families and workers involved in responding to Covid-19, who all watched a stunning 17-minute fireworks display.
President Joe Biden was also seen posing for a selfie with granddaughter Finnegan Biden, first lady Jill Biden, granddaughter Naomi Biden and daughter Ashley Biden.
They viewed the fireworks during an Independence Day celebration on the South Lawn of the White House.
