MIAMI.- Every July 4th, the United States prepares to commemorate Independence Day and the traditional fireworks displays that light up the sky with colors are part of the celebration of this historic date in every corner of the country.
The fireworks display was brought to the U.S. by Italian immigrants as early as the 18th century. In 1777, a year after independence was declared, a celebration in Philadelphia included 13 fireworks displays on the Commons in honor of the 13 original colonies in North America that broke ties with the Kingdom of Great Britain.
The US is now one of the largest consumers of fireworks in honour of the holiday. According to estimates, more than $2.4 billion will be spent on fireworks for the Fourth of July this year.
It all began with the War of Independence, a conflict in which these 13 colonies faced the British Empire between 1775 and 1783, and culminated with the British defeat at the Battle of Yorktown and the signing of the Treaty of Paris.
Then on July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, however it was not until July 4 that the delegates of the thirteen colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historic document that was drafted by Thomas Jefferson.
Since then, this day has been considered a federal holiday. When it falls on a Saturday, it is celebrated on Friday and if it falls on a Sunday, it is moved to the following Monday.
This year, the national holiday of July 4th, one of the most anticipated days of the year for Americans, will be held on a Thursday and thousands of places are celebrating this occasion with outdoor activities, iconic parades, tastings of traditional dishes and fireworks, among other activities.
These are some of the best places in Florida where you can enjoy fireworks shows to celebrate this patriotic holiday in 2024.
Fireworks in Miami
In the city of Miami, you’ll find plenty of things to do during the 4th of July weekend. Fireworks lovers will be able to enjoy the grand fireworks display from Bayfront Park in Bayside, as well as North Shore Park in La Playa, starting at 9:00 p.m. Throughout Thursday, both parks will feature an engaging entertainment program.
Bayfront Park kicks off the celebration at 10:00 a.m. The Kids Zone offers lots of fun activities like inflatables, games, and rides. Meanwhile, the Budweiser Beer Garden offers a concert starting at 2:00 p.m., followed by fireworks that begin at dusk.
Jacksonville
In the River City, viewing locations for fireworks change from year to year. One of the most popular locations in Jacksonville is the 121 Financial Ballpark. The fireworks display there typically begins at 9:45 p.m., right after the baseball game.
Another of the largest and most impressive fireworks displays on the East Coast is the “Fireworks Over the Matanzas,” which takes place from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. in the downtown St. Augustine Historic District.
July 4th in Orlando
Orlando’s fireworks display, held at the Lake Eola Park fountain, has been one of Floridians’ favorite fireworks displays and one of the largest in the Sunshine State since 1980.
Festivities begin as early as 4:00 pm, while fireworks light up the sky after 10:00 pm. A perfect way to celebrate with patriotic music, children’s activities, food and drink.
Spectacular 4th of July in Fort Lauderdale
On Independence Day, thousands of people flock to Fort Lauderdale to enjoy the unique celebration of the “Fourth of July Spectacular,” which takes place for half an hour on the city beach at 8:45 p.m. Visitors can enjoy a day full of fun, live music with amazing performances by local DJs, beach games and contests.
Key West Liman Festival
The Key West Key Lime Festival, held at the Casa Marina Resort for five days of culinary events, is the best way to celebrate America’s Independence in Florida. Locals will have the opportunity to indulge in the local specialty of Key lime pie.
Don’t miss the fireworks display over the seashore, which makes the celebration unforgettable. The biggest events take place in Islamorada, Marathon and Key West, where a significant Fourth of July parade is held.
@Lydr05
Source: With information from Rove and La Nación
