Despite worries about their wallets, many Americans embraced the spirit of Independence Day, enjoying parades, cookouts, and vibrant fireworks displays across the nation. With travel records projected to be shattered, airports and highways overflowed with eager travelers heading to their destinations ahead of the Fourth of July celebrations. The American Pyrotechnics Association anticipated an all-time high in fireworks displays, with countless backyard shows complementing the 16,000 professional events illuminating the skies from coast to coast. “This is how we celebrate. It’s the bombs bursting in air. It’s the rockets’ red glare. That’s how people show their pride and patriotism,” explained Julie Heckman of the association.
The Transportation Security Administration reported a record-breaking nearly 3 million travelers passing through airports in a single day last week, a number expected to be surpassed this week. AAA projected that a staggering 60.6 million individuals would be traveling by car during the holiday period. The surge in travel was partly attributed to easing inflation, even though economic concerns remain prominent for many Americans.
While the traditional barbecue feasts, desserts, and refreshing beverages were abundant, Americans also celebrated in unique ways specific to their communities. Off the rocky coast of Down East, Maine, residents planned to enjoy thrilling lobster boat races. Descendants of the signers of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia were set to ring the Liberty Bell 13 times – one for each of the original colonies. North of San Francisco, the California communities of Bolinas and Stinson Beach engaged in their annual tug-of-war contest, with the losing team facing a dip in the lagoon. And of course, the iconic hot dog eating contest on New York’s Coney Island was a major attraction.
However, amidst the widespread festivities, one community faced a muted observance. The Northern California city of Oroville cancelled its annual fireworks display due to the ongoing Thompson Fire, which displaced an estimated 26,000 residents. Hundreds of firefighters battled the blaze under extreme heat, striving to prevent further damage to homes.
The July Fourth holiday typically brings Americans together in their shared love for their nation, but the 2024 celebration unfolded against a backdrop of deep political polarization and a divisive presidential race. In Boston, where tens of thousands were anticipated to gather for the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, maestro Keith Lockhart acknowledged the inspiring sight of people from diverse political backgrounds coming together on the Charles River Esplanade. However, he also recognized the undeniable divisions plaguing the country. “One would have to have one’s head pretty deeply stuck in the sand to not notice the deep divisions in our country,” he wrote in an email before the show. “It is, indeed, a dangerous time,” he added. “If, even for one day, we can set aside our differences and embrace our commonalities, this has to be a positive thing.
