READING, Pa. — A lot can happen in 250 years, and as it has since 1776, Americans know how to adapt, endure, and carry on.
“We persevere… no matter what… when everything goes completely downhill we know how to come together in the best and worst of times to celebrate life and this wonderful country,” said Michael Phoenix of Allentown.
That spirit was on display at the footsteps of where the nation was born, even after the long-awaited Salute to Independence Parade in Philadelphia to celebrate America 250 was canceled because of the extreme heat.
The Reading Buccaneers were among those who planned to perform.
“We obviously were very much looking forward to the event. It’s kind of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Louis Tierno of the Reading Buccaneers.
Some traveled from afar just to be here. Michelle Garcia arrived with 70 students, parents, and teachers from Puerto Rico.
“It was disappointing, we were devastated because we’ve been planning for this for two years,” said Michelle Garcia of the Guayanilla Marching Band.
But for some, the celebration didn’t stop.
“We were handed some lemons, so we’re making lemonade. We’re going to move ourselves this afternoon over to the Rocky statue, so we’re gonna do a little show there,” Garcia explained.
So while the official parade was off, horns and drums sounded anyway as performers made the most of the day.
“The spirit is here even if the parade isn’t. So, that’s great. That’s what America is all about,” said Lisa Sandler of New Orleans.
“The band is good, the music is good, the vibes are good,” said Sophia Pennicchil of Bucks County.
Proving that the milestone celebration carries on through music, community, and resilience.
“It shows that regardless of who we are, skin color or nationality, we’re all Americans,” said Phoenix.