An All American JULY

With my open love affair with France it may surprise you to hear me say this: skip Bastille Day in Paris and enjoy 4th of July celebrations here in the States.  Bastille Day in Paris is sort of like St. Patrick's Day in Ireland - it sounds like loads of fun but in reality there isn't much celebration going on and pretty much everything is closed.  So instead of battling large crowds in the heat in Europe, pack a picnic dinner and get on the road and find your own slice of Americana.

For a historical Independence Day celebration check out the Bristol, Rhode Island 4th of July Parade which has been held since 1785 and is the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States.  It may only date back to 1973, but the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular held every year on the banks of the Charles is just as memorable.  This is the one time each year that you don't have to be a blue blood to see the fabulous Boston Pops.  Make sure you've got a seat by 9:30pm when the 1819 Overture is performed and you'll be all set for when the fireworks start at 10:30pm.

If you're not so much of a gourmet that you can enjoy good ol' American hot dog then be sure to check out Nathan's Annual 4th of July Hot Dog Eating Contest at Coney Island. 

If your pallet calls for more spice and you can brave the heat, check out the Annual Go 4th on the River in New Orleans to watch a fireworks display from dueling barges on the river while enjoying an oyster po'boy.  For those who dig fireworks with a drawl, here's a list of fun 4th celebrations in the South.

And if your 4th of July celebration will take you no further than your own backyard, you can always be a part of the patriotic celebration in our nation's capitol,  A Capitol Fourth, via radio or TV.