Fireworks shine in the darkening skies over Bethlehem on during the city’s Independence Day and America250 celebration dubbed “Thunder Over Bethlehem.”
Photo by Olivia Herrell
America250 celebrations were held across the country during the Independence Day weekend, and Henry County’s Bethlehem was no different, with neighbors coming together to put on a fireworks show for the community.
To kick off the event, attendees were asked to play the National Anthem from their phones and speakers.
Former Bethlehem resident Diana Berry, who now lives in Smithfield, said that she arrives two hours before the fireworks start to claim her viewing spot on the hill of the old Methodist Church.
“Thunder Over Bethlehem 2026 was an awesome event,” Berry said about the celebration. “It was a special night being back in my hometown spending time with friends from the past and enjoying the well-planned event.”
As the fireworks ended, a number of those watching began honking their car horns in appreciation.
Organizers told the Local they would like to thank all who donated money or fireworks to the show, noting that rising costs initially caused concern that this year’s celebration would be Bethlehem’s last.