Millions of Americans enjoyed a well-deserved break on the fourth of July, participating in parades, fireworks displays, and barbecues to briefly escape the constant stream of troubling news both domestically and internationally.
Independence Day, commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, is a time for Americans to proudly showcase their patriotism.
Despite the current political climate and the ongoing election campaign between President Joe Biden and challenger Donald Trump, this holiday provided an opportunity for unity and a temporary reprieve from divisive issues.
Dwight Kinsey, a 69-year-old resident of New York City, expressed his observation of the country’s increased division, but also highlighted the importance of enjoying the simple pleasures of life. From coast to coast, homes and businesses were adorned with red, white, and blue decorations, emphasizing the spirit of family, good food, and summer enjoyment.
In New York, the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest kicked off a day of indulgence, culminating in the spectacular Macy’s fireworks show over the Hudson River, illuminating the iconic Manhattan skyline.
Despite the fact that 16-time champion Joey Chestnut did not participate in Nathan’s contest this year, the renowned eater known as Jaws still cast a significant shadow over the annual feeding frenzy at Coney Island. Barrett, last July 4 secured the top position by consuming a staggering 62 hot dogs and buns within a span of just 10 minutes. However, he was not invited this year due to a recent deal he signed with a competitor that specializes in vegetarian hot dogs. Instead, Chestnut intends to live-stream his own hot dog eating event on July 4 from a military base in Texas.
While Chestnut won’t be present, a field of 15 relatively unknown competitors will vie for the coveted “Mustard Belt” that is awarded to the winner.
Later in the day, the 48th annual Fourth of July fireworks show organized by Macy’s will take place along the Hudson River this year after a decade of being staged along the East River. The fireworks, launched from anchored barges in the river, will explode into a plethora of colors and special effects at a height of about 1,000 feet (300 meters), providing a thrilling spectacle for the thousands of spectators lining both sides of the Hudson.
All around the country, various cities are hosting fireworks displays, races, baseball games, and an array of other events aimed at providing people with the opportunity to unwind and enjoy themselves.
Tabulated as the largest Independence Day celebration west of the Mississippi, Huntington Beach in Southern California is bracing for the festive occasion. The city, a host of 4th of July festivities since 1904, now attracts over 500,000 attendees as per the organizers. The day begins with a morning 5K run, followed by a parade and an evening fireworks display above the Pacific Ocean. The festivities spill into the following day with a lively block party and rodeo.
In Alaska, where sunlight almost never fades during summertime, the holiday commenced early with a midnight fireworks show in Seward, a port city. This marked the beginning of the three-day Fourth of July Festival that also incorporates a taxing 5K road race on Mount Marathon and a boat parade.
