This Fourth of July weekend, about 80% of Americans are expected to dish out quite a few dollars to celebrate the country’s independence from Great Britain in 1776.
According to several industry leaders, including Lending Tree, Americans are expected to spend over $9 billion on fireworks, clothing, flags, decorations, trinkets, drinks and food.
Of the 150 million hot dogs expected to be consumed on the patriotic holiday, Apple Valley resident Karen Murphy plans to purchase at least 100 links along with potato salad, burgers, chips, salsa, watermelon, soda and beer.
“We usually get together with family and friends for a big picnic and swim party before heading to the fairgrounds in Victorville to watch fireworks,” said Murphy, whose family lives in Apple Valley.
Murphy said each year her family spends about $500 to $700 to feed guests and decorate their backyard with patriotic decorations on 4th of July weekend.
A recent survey by WalletHub revealed that about $2.8 billion will be spent on fireworks, with 66% of fireworks injuries occurring in June or July.
About $4.7 million worth of American flags will also be imported this year.
The Automobile Club of Southern California projects over 61.6 million Americans will hit the road for the July 4 weekend, that’s 1.3 million more than last year and the highest number on record.
Several High Desert residents said they’re planning one and two-day trips to places like San Diego, an Orange County beach, a Southern California amusement park or the San Bernardino Mountains.
Alex Webb said his family’s trip to see relatives in Oceanside includes a trip to the beach and possibly LEGOLAND California Resort in Carlsbad.
“During school vacation, we usually take a big trip to a national park, but we’re downscaling this year and taking shorter trips,” Webb told the Daily Press. “We might do Disneyland later.”
“The 4th of July is one of the most beloved holidays in America, allowing many of us to not only celebrate our independence but also get a day off of work and gather together with family and friends,” according to WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo. “The best cities for the holiday help you make the most of your day, with affordable food options, good weather, fun recreation choices and long, spectacular fireworks shows.”
A WalletHub report ranked the top 10 places in the U.S. to celebrate July 4 in order. They included:
Ryan and Kelly Jenkins of Hesperia said they plan to visit Las Vegas to view what they describe as “the best fireworks show on this planet.”
“We usually stand outside on Las Vegas Boulevard and watch the Caesars Palace fireworks show,” Ryan said. “One year, we watched from our hotel room, but it’s better outside with people.”
History records that on July 2, 1776, the Second Continental Congress made its decree for freedom, and two days later on July 4, they formally adopted the Declaration of Independence.
This declaration was used throughout the American Revolution to inspire troops to carry on fighting against the British.
On July 9, 1776, General George Washington ordered the Declaration to be read aloud to his men to help them find new meaning in the war for independence, according to Britannica.
Note to readers: If you appreciate the work we do here at The Daily Press,please consider subscribing yourself or giving the gift of a subscription to someone you know.
Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at RDeLaCruz@aVVDailyPress.com. Follow him on X @DP_ReneDeLaCruz
