Local 4th of July Festivities a Blast at Home

Nearly 41 million Americans will be traveling 50 or more miles from home during the 4^th of July holiday, according to AAA Travel. That leaves about 275 million who will be celebrating at or near their hometowns.  While the 4^th of July is a peak of the vacation season, it also presents an opportunity for individuals and families to celebrate locally, according to Bill Norman, a professor in Clemson University’s parks, recreation and tourism management department in the College of Health, Education and Human Development. “Cookouts and in-home celebrations will certainly be part of the day, but cities and towns are increasingly getting in on the action, sponsoring festivals, fireworks shows and other activities for those who celebrate close to home. Cities and small towns have increased their efforts in creating and bolstering 4^th of July activities.  And local citizens are responding very positively to them.  People are responding because it costs little money to participate in and travel to them and it gives communities the chance to come together. Not only do you celebrate a wonderful holiday, but you have the chance to celebrate your own community, and that is a great thing.”  The economic benefits to communities who invest in 4^th of July activities are obvious, but the availability of those local holiday activities also helps spread out the impact of tourism activity across locations and throughout the summer.  This fits in with the trend of families taking shorter vacations, but having opportunities to engage in leisure or travel activities several times a year.