Its an interesting thread even being a couple years old. In the current times we live in, celebrating independence regardless of your country's origin is a bit ironic.

4th of July in the States is usually a rather overblown, boisterous and glamorous affair. When it comes to restricting fireworks, that's left up to the states. That said, I don't know of any state's residents that don't like to shoot off fireworks, legal or not, on the 4th.

Where I live, we can sit on our front steps or back deck and see some pretty good fireworks (from locals... illegally ). This year was different. A lot less fireworks and a general feeling (my perception) of negativity and sadness. People weren't outside and it just was unusually quiet.

A reflection of the times IMO.

Positive thoughts