Flags flew and fireworks boomed as San Antonians celebrated the Fourth of July on Tuesday.
On the nation’s 247th birthday, people celebrated much as Founding Father John Adams had hoped when he wrote on July 3, 1776, that the commemoration of the United States’ independence “ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations for one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”
Hundreds gathered at Woodlawn Lake Park to witness the city’s official fireworks display, hosted by the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department, the San Antonio Parks Foundation and H-E-B, among others. Families and groups of friends gathered early to secure good vantage points.
Elsewhere, 9-year-old Faith celebrated at Pickrell Park pool in Schertz with her friends Rowan and Emmalyn. While Faith said her favorite thing about July Fourth was “everything,” Rowan and Emmalyn agreed their favorite part was the fireworks.
For decades, fireworks have been a beloved July Fourth tradition. Justin, an active duty military member celebrating with his wife and daughter on the lawn at Pickrell Park, said his favorite part of the day was seeing the fireworks while his daughter Annabelle loved that she gets to spend that time with her family.
From swimming pools to barbecues and picnics, San Antonians painted the town red, white and blue.
