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Americans celebrate the 4th of July and the country's Independence in a number of ways ranging from parades, and concerts to picnics and barbecues. Perhaps nothing is more anticipated as part of these festivities as the fireworks displays. Every year, it seems that cities across the country engage in a sort of unspoken competition to see which city can better the others with a grander, showier and bigger fireworks display.

There are many cities that probably deserve a top billing for their fireworks displays, but here are some that are arguably the best of any in the country.

*CHICAGO -

Chicago's fireworks celebration always coincides with a concert that is held in Grant Park. It takes place during the very popular and very crowded Taste of Chicago celebration. Taste of Chicago draws 6 million visitors. The fireworks are held on July 3rd and are shot off over Monroe Harbor. They are easily visible from Grant Park, Oak Navy Pier and points along the lake-front. Concert starts at 8:30 p.m. CDT and the fireworks display begins at 9:30 p.m. CDT.

The concert features the Grant Park Symphony Orchestra in a concert that features musical selections such as John Phillip Sousa's "Stars and Stripes Forever," and the 1812 overture of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, during which cannons are shot off, heralding the start of the fireworks show. There is something spectacular about watching Chicago's fireworks as they are shot off over Lake Michigan. For people who aren't fond of crowds and don't want to brave the traffic associated with watching the fireworks from Grant Park, there are other places along the lake where the view is equally spectacular.

*NEW YORK CITY -

Because New York is such a large city, fireworks are launched in three locations, all of which together form what is known as Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks over the Manhattan skyline. The fireworks are launched from the East River in spots between 23rd and 42nd Streets. Additionally, they are broadcast on live television on NBC. It's a spectacular display, especially for television viewers who see the huge display that is no doubt, the result of fireworks going up in three locations. Television broadcast begins at 9 p.m. EDT. This no doubt is the biggest display anywhere.

*WASHINGTON D.C.

Since this city is also the nation's capitol, it is fitting that it should make one of the biggest deals out of 4th of July festivities. The fireworks display is no different. The fireworks are shot off over the National Mall while

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