Boston: 4th of July

Michigan, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. have offered some of the most memorable 4th of July celebrations I've had. So to try and top the list, I knew this year I'd have to try celebrating in the city of this nation's founding fathers: Boston!

As I was trying to decide what to do for the 4th, I was shocked by how few tips there were online. So, to anyone looking to spice up future festivities (or just interested in how I embraced my ridiculous - and free - props), here are my suggestions for how to spend the holiday.

Step 1: Dress in Red, White, and Blue 

(Please note: white sweater, red-ish shirt, blue eye shadow...and pinstriped white and blue pants!)

Step 2: Got to the Boston Esplanade (also known as the Pops and Fireworks Display)
I may have had to google "esplanade" (which, by the way, is an open space by water for walking) but I could easily have told you that it means a good time! Despite what you may read about camping out by on the Charles River at 9 am, my friend and I arrived around 4:15 pm and staked out grass in the Oval Section, where we had a great view of the concert. We packed very little - an umbrella, towel to sit on, jacket, and sunglasses - and kept these in clear plastic bags and our small purses. We also found the staff handing out clear trash bags (which, for me, was perfect for sitting on to keep my bum somewhat dry). And though it may sound like we packed for every season, we used every single item - and I wished I had a hat - so be prepared!

Step 3: Amuse Yo-Self...
For a show that starts at 8 pm, I was slightly concerned about what to do for the four hour lead-in. But between the quality, old school music played over the speakers, people-watching, and great company, we made the most of our time. We were interviewed by a Boston Globe correspondent, I gave some quotes for a WBZ radio show, and I'm convinced my friend's perfectly coordinated red, white, and blue dress made her picture perfect for a local newspaper. You can bring cards and other activities (my friend brought her class reading...) but if you're with someone like me, you won't even need it!

Step 4: Eat Unhealthily (and kind of enjoy it for a moment...)
For food, we packed a few snacks rather than follow the trend and have a proper picnic. I'm not a burger or hot dog kind of gal, and though I attempted to make fried dough (or what Midwesterners call an "elephant ear") dinner, I severely regretted that lapse in judgement. I also learned that even if you don't read it online, you are unlikely to pass security with an open container. Bring a sealed water bottle (that's clear) or an empty bottle to fill once you're inside.

Step 5: Listen Repeatedly to the Cannons, and if Lucky, Watch our Troops
To kill time waiting, we got to hear the practice cannon firings (truly delightful) and had great seats to watch the Leap Frogs, a U.S. military sky diving special operations team, jump out a plane from really high up, make patterns in the sky, carry a U.S. flag, and descend really fast!

That squiggly line was made by a person...

There are three of them!

And two carrying down the flag...

And then there was one...

Step 6: Enjoy the Boston Pops and Sing your Heart Out
I wasn't sure what to expect for the show itself, but I really enjoyed it! I am a fan of several genres of music so the classical orchestra, gospel singer, jazz singer, quartet, and rock and roll Broadway belter featuring a range of reality singing TV stars and the famous Boston Pops was a blast! I'm a fan of the songs I could sing and dance to (think: Bill Joel and audience sing-a-long to Sweet Caroline).

Step 7: Watch the Fireworks 

My online search said that it would be impossible to watch both the concert and the fireworks, and I actually disagree. Towards the end of the concert, if you start walking along Memorial towards Mass Ave, you can position yourself among the crowd to see the beautiful display.

(Sorry, missed pics on this one, but you'll just have to take my word that it was nice).

Step 8: Make a Break for It...(or wish you would have done it sooner)
There's no harm in looking cute and festive but wear your tennis shoes or Sperry's, as you'll be stuck in the crowd for ages when you try to leave. I spent nearly two hours trying to get home but am happy to report that I made it in one piece.

All in all, a great way to spend the 4th! This nation's founding fathers would have been proud.