Happy July 4th! Nothing makes me feel more American than having a band play “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “American the Beautiful” while I’m watching fireworks on Independence Day. I love a good display of fireworks anywhere anytime, but there’s something really special about watching it on July 4th.

This year, I went to a friend’s BBQ in Cold Spring, NY, and then afterward we took a short walk and watched the town’s fireworks (pictured left) right over the Hudson River. It was an impressive display, but then again Cold Spring is an impressive town that has a lot to offer considering its fairly small size. Located a one-hour train ride from NYC, Cold Spring has several restaurants and pubs, plus antique shops, galleries, boutiques and kayak rentals. This makes it a favorite for day-trippers, over-nighters — there several bed-and-breakfasts — and second-home owners.

This was my first July 4th in the US since 2007. Last year, I was in Istanbul and the year before that I was in Santorini. As much as I love traveling, it was so nice to spend the holiday at home this year.

For those who didn’t get to see Fourth of July Fireworks, whether because you were out of the US or your town cancelled them (I’ve heard that some places had to eliminate fireworks this year because of budget constraints), then enjoy these photos of Cold Spring’s celebration. If possible, hum some patriotic music while you look at them.