This Land Is Your Land, This Land Is My Land: Celebrate July 4th on America’s Public LandsWashington, D.C. – This Independence Day, public lands across the country will serve as the locations for countless family barbecues and firework displays, re-enactments and celebrations of the country’s rich history. Public lands are the property of the American people, and the perfect place to celebrate the nation’s birthday.From tiny parks in the city to vast mountain ranges in Alaska, public lands are something to take pride in. They are held in trust for the American people, and many are managed by federal agencies, such as the Bureau of Land Management or the National Park Service.“We all have ownership of our public lands, and many people don’t realize how often they use them,” said Robb Hampton, program director for National Public Lands Day, a program of the National Environmental Education Foundation. “Celebrating Independence Day on public lands is an excellent way to honor our beautiful country.”Here are a few examples of some popular Fourth of July celebrations that take place on public lands:
- The National Mall in Washington, D.C.- There’s no better place to celebrate the country than in the nation’s capital. A Capitol Fourth, the nationally televised concert, takes place on the west grounds of the Capitol building. Watch the amazing fireworks with the monuments in background.
- Mount Rushmore in South Dakota- There is an epic celebration each year at this man-made wonder. The two-day celebration features local talent and fun educational programs.
- Walla Walla, Washington- There is plenty of fun all day long in Pioneer Park, with local vendors, arts and crafts, and live music. At night thousands of people come to watch the best fireworks display in the area.
- On the public school or community grounds in your own community- Public schools are built on public land, and many fairs and carnivals, as well as parades, farmers’ markets and concerts will take place over the 4th.
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