There’s nothing more American than going all out, and the 4th of July is as American as it gets! What better excuse to eat inordinate amounts of fried food, enjoy flashing fireworks displays, or kick back and relax with friends and family. With the actual holiday falling smack middle of the week this year, there’s more to this day than America’s favorite pastime: the classic red, white, and booze. In the name of freedom, the 4th of July is the perfect excuse to let loose and celebrate the freedom the day stands for in a variety of “American” ways. So, read below to find out which cities we think know how to put together a proper Independence Day celebration!
Is there anything more quintessentially American than a Bud Light? San Antonio clearly thinks so. Adding to the already beautiful ambiance of San Antonio’s River Walk, the city annually places thousands of Bud Light decorated luminarias along the river in an event called Bud Light, Stars, Stripes, and Lights. Don’t know what a lumanaria is? Don’t worry, because neither did I! Nonetheless, seeing the countless lanterns (a luminaria) along the river radiate patriotism is a great way to celebrate your day.
The only thing that can surpass the awesomeness of a good 4th of July fireworks show is a fireworks show complemented by lasers! Yes, that’s right, every year, the city of Hialeah, Florida, puts on a fabulous light show that includes both sparklers and tech-heavy lasers. You can watch a video of last year’s celebration here and revel in delight like we did!
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, Uncle Sam, Luke Skywalker, and ET competed for ruler of the galaxy. And by a galaxy far, far away, we mean at the Colorado Springs annual 4th of July celebration! On Wednesday night, sit back and marvel as the Colorado Springs Philharmonic plays a song from each of these monumental films before fireworks light the night.
Only 30 minutes away from Chicago, the folks over in Crestwood have an annual lawnmower parade! Just like it sounds, the city gathers to watch people ride ATVs, mini-bikes, SUV leveraged speedboats, and of course, lawnmowers. Dating back to Crestwood’s agricultural roots, have no fear, town locals will not, in fact, make you mow their lawns afterward! Check out this video to see last year’s shenanigans.
Have you really celebrated the 4th if you haven’t witnessed a pyrotechnic display illuminating the great American sky? Did you really commemorate America’s birthday if you didn’t post firework pictures on your Instagram? The answer to the second question is obviously a big fat no. Thus, what better way to simultaneously up your social media game and enjoy America’s Independence than at San Diego’s Big Bay Boom celebration! This firework display is said to be one of the largest in the country, whereby people can watch fireworks explode from four different barges throughout San Diego. The cream on the cake is who you’ll be watching the show with. With thousands of service members living in San Diego, Patriotism shatters the night sky’s darkness.