by Christa Visperas

Created on: July 11, 2009

John Adams, one of the most influential figures in American history who helped usher the birth of the American nation, could not hide his elation over the Declaration of Independence when he wrote to his wife Abigail:

It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.

Since then, fireworks have been a staple in commemorating the nation's birth, a reminder of America's valiant men and women who fought with guns and cannons and purchased its freedom with their very lives, and in glorious celebration of the triumphant dawn of a nation that went on to become one of the most powerful country in the world.

American cities outdo each other with their spectacular fireworks displays every Fourth of July. However, five cities are really a cut above the rest.

Washington, D.C.

Steeped in tradition, Washington, D.C. wins hands down. Years of celebration has made the city a fireworks playground. Every Fourth of July, its large grassy fields receive millions of revelers who have come to view the dazzling display of fireworks. And with the Washington Monument standing proudly and serenely against the backdrop of the night sky, the Fourth of July fireworks is a moving and heart-lifting experience.

New York City

The city of New York provides one of the grandest displays of fireworks in the nation every Fourth of July. New Yorkers either spread a picnic blanket in De Witt Clinton Park, or find a spot along the West Side Highway to watch the show. The Hudson River dramatically reflects the myriad colors of the night sky, and is a great place to view the fireworks extravaganza either aboard a cruising boat or by the riverbanks. Up in hotel rooftops or at the top of the Empire State Building, limited slots are available to view the fireworks at a vantage point.

Mount Rushmore in South Dakota

What better way to celebrate the Fourth of July than with four of the nation's beloved Presidents staring at you with their larger-than-life rock-carved faces? Mount Rushmore is a fireworks haven during Independence Day celebrations. The huge stone carvings of the faces of the four Presidents in the Black Hills of South Dakota really come to life every Fourth of July with a dazzling fireworks festival. When the fireworks illuminate their faces, they seem to be enjoining Americans to embody the spirit that made this nation and its people great.

Boston

The historic city of Boston celebrates Fourth of July with patriotic fervor, evident in its famous Harborfest and Chowderfest festivals. But the most anticipated part of the Fourth of July celebration in Boston is its Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular. The Esplanade is the best place to view the fireworks, which gets grander and more complex every year.

San Diego Bay in San Diego

San Diego is one of the few places in the United States where Fourth of July revelers view the fireworks while sitting on beautiful sandy beaches. Choreographed pyrotechnic displays light up the skyline from many directions, with PETCO Park and even SeaWorld San Diego launching their own displays. One of the most-watched firework displays, however, is the Big Bay fireworks celebration, with thousand of firework shells launched from Harbor and Shell islands, beautifully illuminating the Pacific Ocean.

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