[Archive 2007-07-04] 231st Independence Day celebrated in United States

Historical archive — originally published 2007-07-04. This report records what was known on that date. It is not current news; subsequent events may have changed the situation. Wikinews closed in May 2026.

Many of the 302 million people living in the United States celebrated Independence Day today.

Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi promised to make the day "Energy Independence Day".

There were many public events, including parades and public festivals with various entertainment and food attractions.

The day is traditionally celebrated with fireworks, often with large performances by social and government organizations.

Cancellation of Mount Rushmore's July 3 fireworks show was considered due to dry conditions, but it was decided at 9 p.m. to proceed. 5,200 shells and pyrotechnics were used in the 27 minute show. The fireworks were preceded by a day filled with music and dance for visitors at the park.

The finale for events in the nation's capitol was musical events, with cannon fire by the U.S. Presidential Salute Battery, and a fireworks display.

The Boston Pops 2007 event was on the Esplanade in Boston, with a concert preceding a fireworks display.

Occurring well into summer, this federal holiday was celebrated by many during family events and activities. It was expected that many would take vacation time from work during the week, particularly as the holiday being in mid-week allows five days of vacation by only taking two days off from work. Among the activities of July 4th, the most common activities are picnics in the daytime, barbeques at evening, and fireworks at night.

In recent years, more and more Americans have gained interests in setting off their own fireworks. Consumer fireworks are banned in many places due to their perceived dangers, but fireworks enthusiasts cite that fireworks are safe when used properly. According to the CPSC, the amount of imported fireworks have roughly tripled during the last ten years, while the rate of injuries has gone down.

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