America’s skies were lit up on Monday as the country celebrated its 246th Independence Day. As tradition goes, families gathered in their backyard after their annual barbeque parties and enjoyed the fireworks.

City authorities also sometimes organise mass events and invite people to watch the fireworks together. These shows can go on for more than 20 minutes, like the one in Washington DC. The National Mall hosted one of the biggest fireworks show this year, which was also witnessed by US President Joe Biden and his family.

Celebrations remained dull in some parts of the country, which had called off fireworks celebrations due to concerns related to wildfires and supply chain disruptions.
Phoenix canceled its three major Independence Day displays because it couldn’t obtain professional-grade fireworks. Shows in several other cities around Phoenix are still on.

Other cities around the country also halted their displays because of the threat of wildfire. Flagstaff in northern Arizona carried out its annual Independence Day parade through the city’s historic downtown, but a new laser light show will replace the standard pyrotechnic display.