FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (WSVN) – As millions of Americans journeyed across the nation, South Florida marked the celebration of the Fourth of July with vibrant festivities and fireworks lighting up the night sky.
Residents in Fort Lauderdale gathered at the city’s Fourth of July Spectacular, where a nostalgic performance by Vanilla Ice thrilled the crowd.
Verlisa Fuller, visiting from Michigan, shared her enthusiasm, stating, “I love the ’90s, everybody loves the ’90s. It’s the best era of music.”
Tony Pope added, “It’s our music and I love it ‘cause there’s no violence, no nothing. Everybody’s chilling, having a good time. God bless America!”
Just before performing, Vanilla Ice spoke with 7News, expressing his excitement: “I’m feeling awesome, I’m the oldest teenager in town. It’s the greatest ever, we’re doing the ‘I Love the ’90s: The Last of the Great Decades,’ it’s going to be epic, put your dancing shoes on.”
David, inspired by Vanilla Ice’s words, danced energetically in the crowd and shared his secrets to staying active. “A lot of work, baby. A lot of stretching, a lot of exercising, you know. Beautiful evening out here seeing all these wonderful people. Happy Fourth of July to everybody.”
Meanwhile, crowds at Bayfront Park in downtown Miami were treated to dazzling firework displays as the Miami night sky lit up.
Roman Ivanova, attending for the first time, remarked, “It’s a great show, it’s a wonderful celebration, it unites people from all of Miami-Dade County.”
The event featured several street performers and live music from the U.S. Navy Band, creating an atmosphere of patriotism as attendees donned red, white, and blue attire, including their pets.
“We’re proud to be American citizens with my family here,” shared one proud attendee.
On Fort Lauderdale Beach, residents started their celebrations early, with one woman joyfully exclaiming, “Happy Fourth of July!”
A young boy expressed his excitement, stating, “I want to celebrate the independence of America.”
Despite wet weather earlier in the day, many took to the outdoors to enjoy the holiday festivities.
Alannah Rowe noted, “It was raining, like, two hours ago, so thank God it’s sunny now.”
For her, the Fourth of July was even more special, coming just days after her 21st birthday.
“Her 21st birthday was two days ago, so we’ve been celebrating all week, from Ocean Reef to Fort Lauderdale to Miami,” said Lisa King.
Rowe added, “I love the fireworks, so it’s like a second celebration after my birthday, so I love it.”
In Plantation, proud Americans waved U.S. flags as a parade made its way through the community, while Key Biscayne featured a marching band that set a patriotic tone with renditions of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “America the Beautiful.”
This volunteer-run parade has been a cherished tradition in Key Biscayne for 66 years.
Jenny expressed her gratitude, saying, “Thank you so much for our government and the Fourth of July parade.”
Beatrice shared her joy of the day, stating, “I love the planes going by and just the spirit of being an American citizen and living in this country. It’s very exciting.”
While parades and bands delighted attendees early in the day, the celebrations continued with fireworks lighting up the sky later on.
Authorities in South Beach reminded revelers to celebrate responsibly during the evening fireworks display.
“If you’re drinking, don’t drive. Utilize the rideshare application service or our free trolley services that we offer,” encouraged an official.
At Bayfront Park, hundreds joined in the centennial celebration, despite a rainy start to the afternoon.
One woman smilingly stated, “We are very happy, even if it’s raining.”
A group of Americans showcased their pride with a display featuring classic American cars they had meticulously restored.
Vinni shared, “He wanted to see the military cars because he loves those things. This is our first time celebrating the holiday. We’ve learned to love this country because it’s given us so much.”
Charles Dragone added, “I’m very patriotic. My father was a veteran, and I enjoy it. It’s America all the way.”
As for Johan Amy, he noted, “It’s special. What better way to celebrate America than driving the quintessential time when everybody was out driving in the U.S. and having cool cars?”
While the celebrations were joyous, officials warned about safety during the festivities.
The City of Miami Police Department shared tips on social media for revelers to stay safe, while Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue conducted safety demonstrations.
An official advised, “You need to wait until it’s fully done with its performance, and even wait a little after that to handle that firework. Once you get it, you need to put it in a bucket of water to cool it off even more. Use them as they’re intended, and everything will play out safely.”
In the spirit of celebration, residents echoed the need for caution, urging everyone to enjoy the festivities.
Rowe concluded, “Just for everyone to be safe and be happy and celebrate all the good things about our country.”
Fireworks can be deceptive; some types, including sparklers, can heat up to a dangerous 200 degrees.
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