PLANTATION, Fla – Millions of Americans are celebrating America’s 247th Independence Day Tuesday with barbecues, parades, family gatherings, and, of course, nighttime fireworks.
There are a number of events and fireworks shows happening throughout South Florida to observe the Fourth of July.
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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“I like to see them interacting with the community because you always see that when there’s tragedy and stuff and you don’t get a lot of opportunity to see them,” said Plantation resident Hailey Cooper.
What’s happening in South Florida?
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 is South Florida’s own rapper Flo Rida.
“Excited for Flo Rida. He’s all Florida, all the time,” said South Florida resident Danielle Collins.
With the street closures and crowds, city officials recommend 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 should expect large crowds at Miami-Dade events as well, especially at Bayfront and Tropical Park.
Officials are urging everyone to have a safe and fun time celebrating America.