Celebrating July 4th at Home with iBestTravel

This Fourth of July holiday weekend is a unique and innovative celebration. As Americans continue to practice social distancing and stay at home to combat COVID-19, friends, neighbors, and families are finding creative ways to embrace the patriotic spirit.

Fireworks at Home

Firework sellers across the USA are witnessing record sales this year, with increases reported at 200-300%. With many large organized firework displays canceled, the demand for consumer fireworks has skyrocketed. According to Julie Heckman, president of the American Pyrotechnics Association, 2020 is expected to be an all-time high in sales.

Steve Houser, National Fireworks Association president, mentioned that the industry plans to obtain 80% to 90% of its revenue in one to two weeks leading up to the Fourth of July. However, the cancellation of larger firework displays has led many to opt for home fireworks, with significant sales observed in cities across the USA since May.

The Boston Police Department reported a 2300% increase in calls regarding fireworks, which are illegal in Massachusetts, compared to last year. Additionally, New York City’s 311 service received 1737 complaints related to fireworks in the first half of June—80 times higher than last year. Fireworks are also illegal in NYC.

For those planning a home fireworks event, experts advise keeping a fire extinguisher or water hose available. Common injuries from fireworks typically affect the face, eyes, hands, and fingers. It is crucial to never allow children to light fireworks, maintain a safe distance of at least 200 feet, and ensure pets are kept safe indoors during the celebrations.

Stream Celebrations Online

Being at home does not mean missing out on the celebrations. Numerous cities in the USA will host firework displays that can be streamed live.

Macy’s famed Fourth of July Fireworks will be live on July 4 at 8/7c on NBC. Although there won’t be live performances on the main stage this year, artists such as John Legend, The Black-Eyed Peas, and Tim McGraw will participate in the livestream celebration. Smaller firework displays have also been scheduled across the five boroughs of NYC.

In Washington DC, the A Capitol Fourth celebration will be held at 8/7c on PBS and on Facebook and YouTube. Virtual hosts Vanessa Williams and John Stamos will feature performances by artists such as Patti LaBelle and The Temptations.

Nashville’s Music City, like other cities, has had to cancel its Independence Day celebrations. However, the annual event will transform into a televised concert called ‘Let Freedom Sing’, honoring healthcare heroes, first responders, and frontline workers with performances by known artists. This will stream live on NewsChannel 5 at 9pm CT.

Additionally, Willie Nelson’s annual 4th of July Picnic will be a day-long streaming event featuring various stars at Nelson’s Luck, Texas ranch.

Backyard BBQ

Nothing embodies American life quite like a backyard BBQ to celebrate Independence Day. With more families gathering at home this year, the CDC has issued guidelines for a safe celebration. It is advised to stay outdoors whenever possible, and if indoors, ensure good ventilation. Limit the number of guests invited, wear cloth masks, and socially distance with seating arrangements of six feet apart.

It is essential to wash and sanitize hands before and after eating, while regularly disinfecting commonly touched surfaces. Guests should be encouraged to bring their own plates, cups, napkins, and utensils, and only one person should handle grilling to minimize the sharing of utensils. Avoiding buffet-style serving is also recommended, and it is wise to keep records of guests for potential contact tracing.

Stay safe and have a happy Fourth of July!