As Americans, we have the right to say what we please. Unfortunately, we exercise that right by griping about people with whom we disagree more often than is healthy, especially when we're griping about fellow Americans. We’re not each other's enemies, we’re co-patriots. Sure, we’ll disagree about important stuff -- that's what this country was made for -- but it's high time we embraced those things we have in common. Fried foods, air shows, cold beer and a three-day weekend are what brings Americans together. So this Independence Day, let's get together at Fair Saint Louis under the Gateway Arch (707 North First Street; www.celebratestlouis.org) and celebrate America’s birthday from Saturday till Monday (July 2 through 4). The 134th VP Parade officially opens the festivities at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, and then you’ll need to direct your eyes skyward for the first of the two-a-day airshows. Featured performers include the Black Daggers U.S. Army Special Operations Command Parachute Demonstration Team, and several civilian precision flying teams, including the Red Eagles, the Aeroshell Acrobatic Team and Greg Poe. Then at 9:15 p.m. all three nights, the sky over downtown erupts in massive fireworks displays. Admission to Fair Saint Louis is free, but you’ll need money for food and drinks.
July 2-4, 2011
