SouthernWorldwide.com – As America approaches its 250th anniversary, a significant milestone in the nation’s history, celebrations in Washington D.C. have historically been marked by grand displays such as thunderous fireworks, impressive flyovers, and festive fairs on the National Mall.
However, on a more personal level, families across the United States have upheld their own unique July 4th traditions for generations. These cherished customs, revisited year after year, often include excursions to the lake, the sizzle of hot dogs on the grill, the playful pop of bottle rockets, leisurely picnics in the park, and the classic American burger – all iconic elements of the nation’s Independence Day festivities.
Away from the partisan debates and the hushed tones of floor speeches, when Congress takes a break from Washington for the weekend each year, lawmakers also partake in traditions that mirror those of the everyday American.
Representative Derrick Van Orden, a Republican from Wisconsin, shared that his most cherished tradition is “loving America.”
He explained, “So, all of our children, we raise them to love this country because we tell them the truth about this country, and they understand that America is the most awesome place that has ever existed in the history of the planet.” He added, “So, we get together, we barbecue some hot dogs and then we watch some fireworks. It’s great.”
And, of course, no American celebration is complete without beer.
“I’m from Wisconsin,” he stated. “Of course. Miller Lites and Hebrew National hot dogs are great. They’re all beef and wonderful. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind a mix of, you know, pork and beef for a hot dog, but I like the Hebrew Nationals myself.”
Regional influences also shape the traditions of some lawmakers. For instance, Representative Troy Downing, a Republican from Montana, and his family make their way to the small town of Harlowton, Montana. There, they gather at a friend’s ranch, where a nearby lake and the routines of ranch life take center stage.
“We all camp there. The kids play in the water. And, you know, usually that’s right around branding [season],” Downing elaborated. “So branding is usually when you castrate. And, so, I’m usually in charge of doing all the calf fries after the castrations.”
The tradition of barbecue, a culinary cornerstone in Representative Ralph Norman’s home state of South Carolina, is also a significant part of the celebration.
“Eatin’ barbecue and relaxin,” Norman stated simply.
When asked if beer was part of the equation, Norman humorously replied, “I’m not old enough to drink beer.”
He then clarified, “I have to get a — I’ve got a fake ID I’ve gotta show. No, drinking beer, barbecue and having a good time with family.”
Some lawmakers use the occasion to honor President Donald Trump alongside their annual festivities.
Representative Troy Nehls, a Republican from Texas, shared his plans: “My neighbor, nice guy, great guy, my twin brother Trevor, are going to come over. We’ve got flags flying in our backyard. We’re going to have some lobster tail, maybe some nice, fat ribeyes, a lot of fat on the ribeyes.”
“We like the marbling on the ribeyes and just celebrate the Fourth and just look at the birds and the flowers and just be thankful that we were born in the greatest country on earth, right,” he continued.
“And celebrate the greatest president in the lifetime of this great country, Donald J. Trump. That’s what I’m thankful for, and that’s what I’ll be celebrating.”
