July 4th Festivities Begin

Millions of Americans got a jump-start on their July Fourth holiday.

In Washington, D.C., Barry Manilow was warming up for a red-hot Fourth of July.

It’s our nation’s 233rd birthday.

Reason to celebrate - especially if you have a three-day weekend

Whether you’re a boater around Boston, a beachgoer in Myrtle Beach, a NASCAR fan in Daytona, or a thousand people fulfilling an American dream at Disney World, this is a day to enjoy.

Of course, when it’s as hot as a firecracker, you stay cool however you can - at a pool in Birmingham, Alabama or a fishing hole in Pahokee, Florida.

Still, tough financial times bring tough choices.

Gwinnett County, Georgia, is one of many places that decided to forego the fireworks this year.

The city of Charlotte found ways to cut some corners but save the show because some feel it’s just not the Fourth without the fireworks

And that’s why the city of Waterbury, Connecticut, decided to spend an extra $10,000 on a uniquely American declaration on Independence Day.

President Barack Obama will watch fireworks at the White House after a cookout with American troops.