By Dan Wing

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – The city of Philadelphia hosted its annual New Year’s Eve celebrations with the highlight being a pair of fireworks shows over the Delaware River.

Thousands looked on at the brilliant blues, glowing greens and splashes of other amazing colors that illuminated the night sky. Many of them were thankful for the year that passed.

“2012 was actually a good year. We got married in February. I got a promotion in September. So, you know, it was a big year.”

Others were anxious for things to come.

“Getting a permit. Becoming a junior – all that fun stuff.”

All agreed the free fireworks were a great way to ring in the New Year.