BOSTON (WHDH) -- Crews did last minute preparations on the Esplanade before Wednesday’s fiery Fourth of July celebration. More than 800,000 people packed the Esplanade last year and organizers are hoping for an even bigger turn out this year.

People were lined up all day Tuesday dressed in their patriotic best.

“I come every year I got out here at 6:30 this morning, I was the only one,” said Gina Lagle.

It was all for the chance to watch the rehearsal of the Boston Pops fireworks spectacular on the Esplanade.

“It’s fun to see how they figure out and set up and everything like that,” said Lauren Tompkins.

This year music superstar Jennifer Hudson will join the Boston Pops on stage for a night to honor America.

It will also be a red, white, and blue fashion show.

“I have to celebrate. This is going to light up later all these little things light up it’s going to be a lot of fun,” Lagle said.

“We have a dollar store hats, little wig, pom poms, specs from CVS,” said Mary Ann Rowlings.