All About Freedom: The July 4th Episode

Celebrating the Fourth of July: America's Top 10 Independence Day Destinations

As the calendar turns to July, Americans across the country begin to feel the excitement building for one of the most anticipated holidays of the year – Independence Day. The Fourth of July is more than just a day off work; it's a celebration of American history, culture, and the freedoms we hold dear. From small-town parades to big city spectacles, every corner of the nation comes alive with patriotic fervor.

In this blog, we'll explore the top 10 destinations to celebrate the Fourth of July, as revealed in our latest podcast episode. We'll also share some personal memories, safety tips, and interesting facts about this beloved holiday. So grab your star-spangled banner and let's dive into the best places to experience the red, white, and blue!

1. Keystone, South Dakota

Topping our list is a somewhat surprising location – Keystone, South Dakota. Home to the iconic Mount Rushmore, this destination offers a truly unique Fourth of July experience. Imagine watching fireworks light up the sky behind the carved faces of four of America's greatest presidents. It's a sight that's hard to beat!

But Keystone offers more than just a stunning backdrop. The celebration here pays homage to America's diverse heritage, featuring Lakota Nation cultural demonstrations alongside more traditional Fourth of July fare. From rodeo events to wine tastings, there's something for everyone in this slice of the American frontier.

2. Boyne City, Michigan

Coming in at number two is Boyne City, Michigan, proudly boasting the "Best 4th in the North." This charming town takes Independence Day seriously, with a two-day celebration packed full of activities. Highlights include a rubber ducky river race, multiple parades, and what Reader's Digest calls "the best small town fireworks display in the United States."

For those who love a good competition, Boyne City offers a six-hour cornhole tournament and a cherry pie eating contest – a nod to Michigan's famous fruit. With its community breakfast, decorated bike parade for kids, and Rotary Club chicken sale, Boyne City embodies the spirit of an all-American Fourth of July.

3. Bend, Oregon

Nature lovers and adventure seekers will find their perfect Fourth of July celebration in Bend, Oregon. This Pacific Northwest gem offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and traditional festivities. Start your day with some celestial stargazing at Fort Rock, then hit the Bend Ale Trail (with a designated driver, of course).

One of Bend's most endearing Fourth of July traditions is its pet parade, where even goats are welcome to join in the patriotic procession. The day culminates with a fireworks display launched from Pilot Butte, offering spectacular views across the city.

4. Addison, Texas

Everything's bigger in Texas, and that includes Fourth of July celebrations! This small town in the greater Dallas area pulls out all the stops for Independence Day. The festivities include an air show, skydivers, acrobatics, and a carnival complete with rides and games. The day ends with what's described as an "insane" fireworks show – definitely not one to miss!

5. Bucks County, Pennsylvania

History buffs will love celebrating the Fourth in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. With seven historic streets each hosting their own parade, you'll be hard-pressed to find a more patriotic setting. The county offers several choices for fireworks displays and exudes a quaint New England vibe that's perfect for those seeking a traditional Independence Day experience.

6. Block Island, Rhode Island

For a more upscale Fourth of July, consider Block Island, Rhode Island. Charter a boat, indulge in a lobster roll, and watch the fireworks from the vantage point of a historic lighthouse. It's a perfect blend of luxury and tradition that captures the essence of New England's coastal charm.

7. Flagstaff, Arizona

Combine natural wonder with patriotic celebration in Flagstaff, Arizona. After enjoying the town's parades and festivities, head to a nearby mountain trail for a unique vantage point of the fireworks display. With the Grand Canyon as a backdrop, it's a Fourth of July experience you won't soon forget.

8. Knoxville, Tennessee

Voted the "most patriotic city in America" by USA Today, Knoxville knows how to throw a Fourth of July party. The celebration centers around World's Fair Park, where you can enjoy local barbecue, craft brews, and a famous fireworks display. It's Southern hospitality meets patriotic fervor in the heart of Tennessee.

9. Pleasure Island, North Carolina

For those who prefer a beachside Fourth, Pleasure Island, North Carolina, offers the perfect blend of sun, sand, and celebration. Enjoy fresh seafood and waterfront dining before settling in for a spectacular fireworks show over the Atlantic Ocean.

10. St. Augustine, Florida

Rounding out our list is St. Augustine, Florida, the oldest city in America. Celebrate the nation's birthday in a place with over 450 years of history. Watch fireworks over the Matanzas Bay and the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest fort in the U.S. Don't forget to try the local specialty – blue crab beignets!

Safety First: A Word of Caution

While the Fourth of July is a time for celebration, it's important to remember safety. Our podcast touched on some sobering stories of fireworks accidents. Always follow local laws and safety guidelines when handling fireworks, and consider leaving the big displays to the professionals.

Personal Memories and Traditions

The podcast hosts shared some of their own Fourth of July memories, from small-town parades to big city celebrations. Whether it's a barbecue with family, watching fireworks from a rooftop, or participating in local events, everyone has their own way of making the day special.

In conclusion, the Fourth of July is a time to celebrate what makes America unique. Whether you prefer a small-town celebration or a big city extravaganza, there's a perfect spot for everyone to enjoy the holiday. So this Independence Day, why not try somewhere new? Explore one of these top 10 destinations and create your own unforgettable Fourth of July memories. After all, that's what this holiday is all about – coming together to celebrate our shared heritage and the freedoms we enjoy as Americans.

Happy Fourth of July, everyone!

10 Fun Facts about The 4th of July:

1. The Declaration of Independence was actually signed on July 2, 1776, but wasn't announced until July 4th.

2. Three U.S. presidents have died on July 4th: John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Monroe.

3. The first Fourth of July celebration at the White House occurred in 1801, hosted by Thomas Jefferson.

4. The oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States is the Bristol Fourth of July Parade in Bristol, Rhode Island, which began in 1785.

5. Americans typically eat 150 million hot dogs on July 4th, enough to stretch from D.C. to L.A. more than five times.

6. The melody of the Star-Spangled Banner was originally an English drinking song.

7. The Philippines gained their independence from the United States on July 4, 1946.

8. Calvin Coolidge is the only U.S. President to have been born on July 4th (in 1872).

9. In 1778, George Washington celebrated July 4th by giving his soldiers double rations of rum.

10. The first Fourth of July fireworks were set off in Philadelphia in 1777.

10 Facts about fireworks in the United States:

1. The first fireworks were actually invented in China around 2,000 years ago.

2. The largest firework display ever in the U.S. was in Colorado Springs in 2014, with 33,517 fireworks.

3. The U.S. imports the vast majority of its fireworks from China.

4. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. According to the American Pyrotechnics Association, Americans spend more than $1 billion on fireworks each year.

6. In 2020, despite many cancellations due to COVID-19, the fireworks industry saw record-breaking sales.

7. Massachusetts is the only state that completely bans all consumer fireworks.

8. The color of fireworks is determined by the metal salts used in their production.

9. Walt Disney World in Florida is the largest consumer of fireworks in the United States.

10. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 10,000 fireworks-related injuries are treated in U.S. emergency departments each year.