PLANTATION, Fla – Millions of Americans celebrated America’s 247th Independence Day Tuesday with barbecues, parades, family gatherings, and, of course, nighttime fireworks.
There were a number of events and fireworks shows happening throughout South Florida to observe the Fourth of July.
A Local 10 News crew was in Miami Beach Tuesday as crews were seen making a few adjustments before the city’s “Fire on the Fourth” event at the Miami Beach Bandshell, located at 7275 Collins Ave.
In Plantation, the town kicked off its celebration Tuesday morning with its annual Independence Day parade, led by Grand Marshall and long-time city employee, 101-year-old Norma Fink.
Local 10 News spoke with Plantation residents who said the special tradition has continued for over 70 years.
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“This is a family tradition,” said Patrick Fitzgibbon. “We’ve been living in Plantation for 22 years and we come here every year and the kids just love it. They’ve moved out and started their own families, but they come back for this.”
The parade featured community leaders and first responders riding in motorcycles and firetrucks, and smiling and waving to attendees.
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Beyond Plantation, Fourth of July celebrations are happening all across South Florida.
A Local 10 News crew was at the scene of Fort Lauderdale Beach Tuesday as this year’s holiday headliner was South Florida’s own rapper Flo Rida.
“Excited for Flo Rida. He’s all Florida, all the time,” said South Florida resident Danielle Collins.
Local 10 News spoke with Bayfront Park Artistic Director Miguel Ferro, who said he was expecting more attendees this year after more than 25,000 showed up at the park in 2022.
“We’re very excited. That’s why we made the show a little bit bigger,” he said.
Local 10 also spoke with Miami-Dade residents who said they were proud to represent America on its Independence Day.
“When I saw the flag raised up, I cried. It was beautiful,” said Paula Jimenez.
Jimenez said that even though she can watch the show from her balcony, she wanted to get closer to the crowd to smell the hot dog and burger stand because it just feels different.
CLICK HERE for information about where to view fireworks in South Florida.
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What’s happening in South Florida?
Beyond Plantation, Fourth of July celebrations were happening all across South Florida.
In Fort Lauderdale, with the street closures and crowds, city officials recommended taking other forms of transportation instead of driving.
“We have our micro mover with Circuit, just download the Ride Circuit app. They can pick you up anywhere in the city as long as it’s in the coverage area. We also have the Water Taxi and of course, any rideshare will help,” said City of Fort Lauderdale employee Arlene Bornstein.
Attendees were told to expect large crowds at Miami-Dade events as well, especially at Bayfront and Tropical Park.
Officials urged everyone to have a safe and fun time celebrating America.