By Jennifer Bradley, Staff Writer
People scrambled to find a patch of grass for their lawn chairs or picnic blankets for a night of fireworks at the sports fields next to Princeton University’s stadium on Monday, July 2.
”I like the fireworks because they are reflective of our own country being free and how far we have come as a nation,” said Princeton resident Louise Lisansky.
Ms. Lisansky was sitting with her father, Leonard Lisansky, a 90-year-old World War II veteran.
”The town does a great job with the fireworks and we are very excited,” said Franklin resident Rahul Gautam.
Mr. Gautam said it has been a tradition for his family and friends to get together to see the fireworks in Princeton for six years.
”The fireworks are awesome and they last a really long time,” said Princeton Borough resident Chloe Andac. “They put on a really good show.”
”I like the boom the fireworks make,” said 5-year-old Lawrenceville resident, Dylan Powers.
”It’s a social event and I like that everyone gathers together to celebrate America,” said Miranda Waggoner from Princeton.
Ms. Waggoner was sitting with her friend Sven Kranz who was celebrating his first Fourth of July. Mr. Kranz is from Germany, and said he was very excited to see the fireworks and participate in the holiday.
As everyone eagerly awaited the fireworks, music played and families tossed around footballs and Frisbees. Some people kicked around a soccer ball while others kicked back and soaked up the remaining sun before dusk.
”We came earlier than usual this year so we could have a picnic before the fireworks start,” said Princeton resident Joslen Beslity, 12.
Joslen was sitting in a circle with her friends Anne Irving, 12, and Kate Rogers, 12, talking about the upcoming fireworks.
”I love when the fireworks go off because you can actually feel it,” said Kate.
”I like the fireworks because of their colorfulness and the noise they make,” added Joslen.
The girls were also looking forward to the Fourth of July.
”I love all of the Fourth of July parties,” said Anne.
Other participants were similarly excited to not only celebrate the fireworks, but they were also excited to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday.
”I like the patriotism of the Fourth of July and it’s fun,” said Ms. Waggoner.
The night went out with a bang as fireworks lit up the night sky and brought residents together to celebrate America’s birthday.

