People in the United States celebrate the Fourth of July with parades, fireworks, and family gatherings. Some honor fallen soldiers by visiting military cemeteries or memorials. Fireworks displays can be crowded, so some people choose to have their own private displays. Celebrations can also include barbecues, picnics, and trips to state or national parks. Those living outside the US can organize their own celebrations or check with the US embassy or consulate for events.
While many cities, towns, or counties in the United States offer entertainment such as parades or fireworks, many people also plan special events to celebrate the Fourth of July. Some people even have their own private fireworks displays on Fourth, in areas where fireworks are legal for individual use. Others plan get-togethers for family and friends or head to state or national parks to while away the day.
Civic celebrations
It is common for cities and towns of all sizes to hold parades and carnivals to celebrate July XNUMXth. School marching bands, members of community organizations and businesses, police and fire officers, local politicians, and others often walk or ride in the parades, and it can be great fun for children. Many towns also hold fairs and festivals on the weekend closest to the Quarter, with fairground rides, games, and food. Some communities also hold a public reading of the Declaration of Independence.
Independence Day is also a good time to remember the people who fought and died to defend the country and protect its citizens. You can honor these men and women by visiting a nearby military cemetery, museum, or other memorial. These locations often hold special events on July 4th, Memorial Day, and Veteran’s Day, so it’s a good idea to check with the site ahead of time to find out when any commemorations are taking place.
Fireworks
Going to see a fireworks display is one of the most common ways people celebrate the Fourth of July. Larger cities and towns can offer the longest and most impressive shows, but they can also be crowded; attending a smaller show may give you an opportunity to get a better viewing position. However, some fireworks make loud noises that can startle young children, so it may be best to watch from afar if you have young children you’re worried about upsetting.
If you choose to light the fireworks yourself, be careful. In some places it is illegal to buy or possess firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices, so find out what the local laws are before buying anything. Grass and scrub can get very dry in the summer, so make sure there is nothing flammable in the area where you are setting up your fireworks and keep a fire extinguisher, water bucket and/or water hose nearby. Because all pyrotechnic items can be dangerous, they should not be handled by children or anyone who has drunk alcohol.
Family kitchens and parties
Some people like to stay close to home and have a barbecue for July XNUMXth. Having a barbecue is a great way to spend the day enjoying good food and having fun with friends and family. Independence Day can also be a great time to host a family reunion.
If you’re celebrating at home, look for red, white, and blue tableware and patriotic decorations to add a festive touch. You might want to make a patriotic appetizer on Red and White Striped Cocktail Bread made with mozzarella strips and red peppers. Red, white, and blue foods like berries, juice, cake, and other fun, colorful snacks can also add to the holiday spirit.
Celebrating inside
Many people choose to stay indoors for the holidays and avoid the heat and crowds. The same July Fourth themed foods and snacks can be served both indoors and out, and with less risk of the potato salad spoiling from sitting in the sun. For entertainment, put on some patriotic music on the stereo or see if a baseball game or other sporting event is on the TV. Fireworks from the nation’s capital are almost always broadcast, as are many local shows and parades
Travel to celebrate
July XNUMXth, with its generally warm temperatures, is a very popular time of year for camping. Make sure you book your campsite in advance or there may not be a place for you. If you think you have waited too long, call and ask if there are any cancellations. Also ask about any special Independence Day activities the park or campgrounds may have planned, as well as how much these activities cost and whether tickets are required in advance.
If you enjoy hanging out at the park or lake but don’t really care for camping, you can always spend July 4th at the beach, go on a hike, or plan a nice picnic and then go home. Pack all your favorites and bring along some outdoor fun items like a Frisbee®, horseshoes or volleyball. Even a trip to the pool can be fun and ease the heat of a summer day. Make sure you bring plenty of water or other drinks with you, and don’t forget your sunscreen.
Many cities host large celebrations, so if you live in a smaller city, July XNUMXth can be a good opportunity to take a trip and see the sights. One of the biggest celebrations is in Washington DC, where a wide variety of events are held, from parades to concerts to the Smithsonian Folklife Festival on the National Mall. If you’re new to the city, it’s a good idea to do some research beforehand to find out when and where the different events take place, the best way to get there, and where to park.
Celebrations outside the United States
Living outside the US doesn’t mean you have to skip the July Fourth celebrations. You can organize your own barbecue or party and invite other expats and local friends. Check with the U.S. embassy or consulate to see if they host any events or if there are any parties in your area. If you’re near a US military base, you might be able to join in the celebrations there.
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