American Experience | 体验美国

Fourth of July traditions

July 3, 2014 1:34 am | By Laura

The 4th of July also known, as Independence Day in America is a federal holiday that commemorates the Declaration of Independence. On July 4, 1776 the USA declared independence from Great Britain. This day in America has become associated with parades, barbecues, carnivals, picnics, and most importantly fireworks.

Fireworks not only go off on the 4th of July but the entire week and weekend leading up to the holiday. Many towns promote their firework shows and arrange them on different days. In my town the fireworks are set off at the high school. Families all over town buy tickets to park at the high school and camp out all day long. Families bring grills and blankets and spend the evening with close friends and family. You will find ice cream trucks, light savers, hot dogs, and hamburgers. Once it is dark enough and time for the show, patriotic music is played along with the beautiful firework show.

Not only are there huge firework shows in local towns but also all over the U.S., many of which are televised. The largest and most famous of shows takes place in New York City. This show is put on by Macy’s department store and sets off about 75,000 fireworks in just 26 minutes. This year the display will be on the East river. Fireworks will be set off from the Brooklyn Bridge and from barges in the water below. You can view last year’s spectacular on YouTube and Youku.

Another popular firework spectacular is in Atlantic City, NJ. It is a two-part show, which makes it one of the longest shows in the country. More than 250,000 people take up their favorite viewing positions along the World Famous Boardwalk, at one of the many beach bar parties or viewing events, on the Steel Pier, or at the luxury casino resorts.

The 4th of July is a fun-filled day of barbecues, family, friends, fireworks and a celebration of independence.