Savannah pulled out all the stops this Fourth of July weekend to mark a truly historic milestone — the 250th anniversary of American independence — and thousands of residents and visitors showed up to celebrate in style.

Fireworks lit up the Savannah skyline as crowds gathered along the waterfront for the city’s Waterfront Independence Day Celebration, according to the Savannah Morning News and WTOC. The dazzling display capped off a festive day that drew thousands to River Street and the surrounding area.

Earlier in the day, Savannah’s Midtown neighborhood hosted its beloved Fourth of July parade at Hull Park, with the Savannah Morning News capturing photos of the community coming together for the annual tradition. The parade offered families a classic, hometown way to kick off the holiday.

Adding a deeper historical dimension to the festivities, the Savannah History Museum debuted a display of Revolutionary War cannons in honor of America 250, according to Fox News. The exhibit gave residents and visitors a tangible connection to the nation’s founding era — a fitting tribute in a city that played its own storied role in the American Revolution.

Downtown Savannah also marked the occasion with bells ringing across the historic district in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary, WTOC reported — a nod to the tradition of bell-ringing that has marked American independence since 1776.

All told, it was a weekend that reminded Savannah why it remains one of the South’s most spirited and historically rich communities. Happy 250th, America!

Sources: Savannah Morning News, Fox News