In my hometown of Salem, New York, July 4th has been celebrated the same way for years and years — a parade and then the firemen’s carnival that ends after dark with fireworks.  The small town of under 1000 people swells to twice its size and more as bands, firetrucks, livestock, and floats come down Main Street to enthusiastic applause.  It’s a special tradition that never grows old.

Here are some photos from the parade:

And the day ends with: