2 Special Events Not to Miss on Independence Day

July 04,2022

July 4, known as Independence Day, is the National Day of the United States to commemorate the birth of the Declaration of Independence. The publication of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 ended the British colonial rule of the United States and made the United States a free country, so it was a very important thing for many Americans!

 

From flashy fireworks and parades to backyard barbecues with plenty of burgers and hot dogs, there are plenty of different ways to celebrate this summer holiday. But there are also many regional, quirky traditions, depending on where you are in the country. We've rounded up some of the most unique Independence Day celebrations to help you better understand American culture and prepare for the upcoming overseas exchange.

 

Independence Day

 

Hot Dog Eating Contest: New York City, NY

 

Every July 4th, a restaurant in New York City's Coney Island hosts a hot dog eating contest. It's the largest event the Major League Eating hosts each year, attracting tens of thousands of spectators. Last year's winner was Joey Chestnut who ate 75 hot dogs in 10 minutes!

 

Students visiting nearby NYU (such as Columbia) can easily travel to Brooklyn to watch the Big Eater game live. However, if you happen to be outside the area, you can also tune in on the sports channel ESPN, which broadcasts the event every year.

 

Marshmallow Battle: San Diego, California

 

The picturesque, laid-back Ocean Beach community of San Diego has its own tradition of celebrating Independence Day based on food: a big marshmallow fight! It originated in the 1980s, when some local families jokingly threw pillow-shaped white candies at community barbecues. Gradually, the event grew in popularity, eventually becoming so large that it even became a nuisance, as the crowds and sweet treats ended up messing it all up.

 

The event has dwindled in popularity in recent years (or, according to the Ocean Beach Town Council, has been "calmed" down), but if you're visiting in San Diego (UC has a campus there) , you can still take a look.

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