Whether Independence Day is a yearly tradition they are excited to celebrate again, or it’s their first time celebrating, BYU-Idaho students from all over the country- and world- are ready for this weekend.
Rexburg, Idaho
Since July 4, 1776, people all over the United States of America have come together to celebrate the country’s independence. For BYU-Idaho students born and raised in the USA or from another country and attending school, the Fourth of July, or Independence Day, brings people together as a day to celebrate freedom. BYU-Idaho Radio asked students around campus what they are doing to celebrate the 4th and why they celebrate.
One group of six BYU-Idaho students, sitting together at the Crossroads in the Manwaring Center, all had similar plans to spend their Independence Day the traditional way, with friends, family and fireworks.
“I’m going to Oregon with my family, play a yearly wiffle ball game and then we’ll watch fireworks,” one of the three group members to share their plans said.
The second group member has plans to celebrate locally by attending the Menan parade and afterward seeing the Melaleuca firework show in Idaho Falls, while the third group member will be traveling to Salt Lake City, Utah to see her siblings.
When asked why they celebrate the Fourth of July, students Kayley and Samuel said they celebrate because they love their country.
“I love the Fourth of July because I’m a born patriot and I want to serve my country in the future, and I think it’s the greatest country on earth,” said Samuel, who is spending the day at a friend’s cabin.
While many students have experienced the Fourth of July all their lives and have long-held traditions, many students are also experiencing the holiday for the first time. Three students from Peru are excited to celebrate their first Fourth of July this year.
Diego plans to celebrate with his brother and friends in Utah.
“I am more excited for the fireworks and for all the parties for Fourth of July, and to meet more people and know more about this culture. I love the USA, so I am probably going to love Fourth of July!”
“I am feeling very excited for that. I am excited to hang out with my friends, to be with them, and see the fireworks,” said Josué.
Christina isn’t sure how she will celebrate yet, but she plans to spend time with her friends.
“I’m excited to watch what people do on this holiday and the fireworks,” she said.