PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Thousands in Philadelphia celebrated the new year outdoors watching fireworks along Penn's Landing. Many of them reflected their desires, prayers and resolutions to make 2022 a better year than 2021.
Kyle and Nichole Smith of Cinnaminson brought their son Kellan, 5, while KYW Newsradio carried the soundtrack for the Rivers Casino NYE Fireworks on the Waterfront.
"I like the colors, because they make red, yellow, green, purple and pink," an impressed Kellan said. "I like red and green."
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"We feel that we already missed a lot of experiences with COVID-19, so we wanted to make sure that we got something in," Kyle said about getting in a New Year's celebration outdoors.
"Being outdoors definitely helps. There aren't a lot of people down here, so we feel OK."
The Doctor family from Abington Township brought their beach chairs, snacks, and festive lighted hats with them to watch the fireworks at Penn’s Landing.
Sharice Doctor said it was a fun and safe way to ring in the new year.
"We figured outside, not a lot of people, cool to watch the fireworks," she said in the little nook she and her family created for gazing at the explosions in the night sky.
"Let me tell you, it's awesome."
Her son Jayden, 13, made a New Year's resolution.
"Being more consistent with my basketball training, not just being lazy instead of working out every day," he said.
"That will be good, but I prefer cleaning the room," Mom retorted.
"My room is already clean, so I don't know what she is talking about," Jayden responded.
Mom didn't totally agree.
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While Timothy Fritsch and his family from Lancaster also enjoyed the fireworks, they were a little disappointed to hear the Mummers Parade was postponed until Sunday. They can't extend their hotel stay.
"This is my kids' first time, and we are bringing them down to see the Mummers Parade," he said. "We'll just go home and will have to come back early on Sunday."
Many people said they are glad to see 2021 go, just like 2020, and they wish and pray for COVID-19 to go away.
