Less than a week before America’s 250th birthday, thousands gathered at the Fresno Fairgrounds for the fifth annual Celebrate America Event.
The City of Fresno joined Cornerstone Church to host the celebration as a part of the city’s ‘One America, One Fresno’ initiative.
Organizers estimate over 5,000 people turned out to the free event that included live music and remarks from state and local leaders.
“It’s truly what I love about the Central Valley.” said Assemblyman David Tangipa, who represents California State Assembly District 8. “When we come together come together, and we come together as a community — whether you’re county, city, a state representative — you should be able to celebrate that we’re all in this together.”
But of course, the real stars of the show came at the end.
“It is the absolute best fireworks show in the valley,” said Fresno resident Cheryl Torosian.
With flags waving and gleaming eyes under dazzling explosions, families also reflected on 250 years of America’s experiment in self-governance.
“There is no other country like the United States of America. We’ve been under this constitution now for 250 years. The average time that a country stays under a constitution is 17 years,” said Senior Pastor at Cornerstone Church Jim Franklin.
“We are living in the most blessed country. And thank God we are here,” said Fresno resident Harry Torosian. “We are Americans, and Americans first.”
The City of Fresno will host more free events on July 4th.
