WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)— The city of Wilkes-Barre hosted its Old-Fashioned Fourth of July celebration and thousands were there to enjoy the day and watch fireworks.
28/22's Avery Nape was there for much of the afternoon.
It was an absolutely perfect day at Kirby Park in Wilkes-Barre. The sun was out and so were hundreds of people enjoying the beautiful weather and celebrating America's independence.
Family, food, and of course fireworks.
The annual Old-Fashioned Fourth of July celebration kicked off Friday afternoon at Kirby Park in Wilkes-Barre, all to celebrate America's independence.
"The 249th birthday of our country. And when you reflect back on it, you want to go home tonight and watch old movies that talk about when the people started our country and what they went through. It just gets you into that mood, the flavor for history, the history of our country," stated Mayor George Brown, (D), Wilkes-Barre.
The smell of fried food, the sound of music from four different bands, and an overwhelming sense of patriotism filled the park as thousands of people gathered to celebrate the holiday.
""This is a good area for families to get together, and it's nice to meet new people. Everyone's just so friendly, lovely, it's a beautiful event," expressed Ambria Stewart, Luzerne.
Some were here for the show in the sky, others say this day is more about patriotism and paying tribute to our nation.
"Patriotism is having respect for your country and having respect for the people who live in it and everyone who is here in this country and being proud of where you're from," voiced Kylah Flores, New Jersey.
"Supporting the country, supporting the cause, just being a pillar in the community trying to get everyone to come together," added Stewart.
And while everyone has their own reason to celebrate and their own definition of patriotism, one thing that helps make this celebration a success is the people.
"There are people from all walks of life, all different backgrounds, and we just come together to enjoy the fireworks, enjoy good food, good company, good music and you know, that's all you can ask for," noted Flores.
While the celebration at Kirby Park has wrapped up for this year, there's still plenty of time left in the holiday weekend.
On behalf of everyone at 28/22 News, we wish you all a safe, healthy, and Happy Fourth of July.
