Photos: Tradition Bursts Back With July 4th Fireworks Across America

This July 4th, freedom rang a little louder than last Independence Day. Well, the fireworks did at least.Blasts of flashy pyrotechnics across the country marked something of a return to normal, a year after the coronavirus pandemic dampened most Fourth festivities.But on America's 245th birthday, there was perhaps even more reason to celebrate in the name of freedom. About half of Americans are fully vaccinated against the virus, lockdowns have been lifted and infections remain relatively low in the U.S.With masks largely shed at Sunday's fireworks displays, the awe spread across spectators' faces was that much more visible.At the nation's capital, Washington, D.C., officials welcomed back crowds to the National Mall for a viewing of the annual fireworks show. Nearby, President Biden hosted 1,000 medical workers, first responders, essential workers and military members on the South Lawn of the White House to enjoy the same light show.From sea to shining sea, here's a peek at some of the fireworks shows that dazzled. Copyright 2021 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.