We all grow up with our own Fourth of July traditions, but for me, the holiday meant a long celebration that never seemed to end. My birthday falls right near July 4, so as a kid the two events were so intertwined in my mind, I always expected the fireworks to spell out my name in the sky! That never happened, but spending the Fourth with my family still had to be one of the most special memories of summer.
Each Fourth of July, we’d take a boat trip to Port Jefferson for the weekend of the fireworks display. We’d enjoy local festivals, shopping, restaurants, and, of course, the fireworks. From the boat we could often see the fireworks from a few different towns. Being out on the water at night, rocking with the waves while the sulfurous smell of exploded fireworks mingles with the salty air, is about as perfect a way to watch a fireworks show as I can imagine. They may not have written my name in the sky, but that fireworks show was always the culmination of a fantastic family weekend.
Now that I have my own family, I still love to keep up with the traditions I knew as a kid. Boating to Port Jefferson, enjoying a favorite restaurant like Pasta Pasta, and those spectacular fireworks out on the water. I’m not one for going all out with the Fourth of July decorations around the house, but for a cookout or family party, a thoughtfully dressed table or collection of eclectic images goes a long way toward setting the patriotic mood. Think of adding a Fourth of July flair to your picnic basket for the beach, your table at home, or even your clothing or accessories!
Whatever your traditions or plans, I wish you a happy and safe Fourth of July!