For The Fourth of July, my side of the family always gets together at my Grandparent's house, which is situated along Lake Erie. For years, this has been the usual thing to do. We bring food, invite a bunch of lovely friends, and enjoy bonfires and personal fireworks displays. The Fourth will always be my favorite summer event.
My grandparent's house is situated on one end of a little bay. So, the way that their backyard is set up allows for a perfect view of everything that is going on. You can see all of the bonfires along the beach (each person tries to build the biggest and best), witness multiple fireworks displays as each family tries their hand at a show, and its also fun to see the many groups of people gathering together for one purpose: to celebrate our freedom!
I love watching the fireworks come off the beach. We used to go to our local fireworks display after spending the early evening with my grandparents, but this is just such a unique tradition, I wouldn't trade it for anything. I love the feeling of community that exists along the lake. Everyone wants to be part of the festivities.
So, my little brother, husband, and I sat along the concrete breakwall and enjoyed the show. The whole time I sat there, I thought about all of the past years and reflected on the joy that such a simple gathering brings.
Do you have any family traditions for the Fourth?
I don't really remember having a tradition growing up, but Doug did. They always went to Old Forge and watched fire works after spending the day in the water park. Although we didn't go to the water park, we did go up and walk through the shops and watch the fire works.
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