BISMARCK, ND ( KXNET ) — For some, this holiday is spent grilling, lighting off fireworks, and spending time with family.

“I’m going to spend some time with my family. We don’t have plans yet. We usually like to spend some time together,” said Christi Carpenter, from Moffit.

“We are spending time with family, friends, fireworks, and rodeo. Americana!” exclaimed one Bismarck resident.

“Before the parade, we’re going to go to that, but first we’re going to run a 5K and then we’ll get a medal or something after. We’re going camping, too,” said Caroline and her sister, Malia, from Bismarck.

Richard Fleckenstein, with the Sertoma Amusement Park, said that they’ll be open to the public for families to come and attend until 6 p.m. and the weather won’t deter them.

“It would take quite a bit of rain and all-day rain for us not to be here,” said Fleckenstein.

And for those with the Bismarck Mandan Symphony Orchestra, they will be honoring Independence Day by playing at the North Dakota State Capitol.

“It’s very meaningful for me and for the musicians and especially the opportunity to honor our veterans and those who are currently or who have served in the armed services. We have a few in our orchestra, in fact, so that’s a very special part of this evening,” said Beverly Everett, the director of the Bismarck Mandan Symphony Orchestra.

The Braveheart Band will begin with some music. Then, around 9 a.m., the Armed Colors will be presented and then they will play patriotic songs. After their concert, fireworks will be displayed on the capitol grounds.

Everett said that playing, for what they plan to be thousands of citizens, means a lot to her, especially on Independence Day.

“If you had a camera on me during the concert, you’d probably see me get a little misty-eyed sometimes, so it’s very meaningful to be able to do that,” said Everett.

One Bismarck resident said, “It goes back historically to the beginning of our country and today’s age, we’re kind of losing track of what that means. So, it’s very important every year we pause and take note of who has come before us. And make sure we continue along that path.”

“The fourth of July is very special to me. One, because I love my country. Two, my family has roots in law enforcement and the military,” said Christi Carpenter from Moffit.

“The Fourth of July is a great day for our country and celebrating our freedom,” said Fleckenstein.

Caroline, from Bismarck, said, “It’s like the birthday of the U.S.A.”

No matter what you’re doing this Independence Day weekend; whether you’re out boating on the lake with your family, lighting off fireworks, or you’re here at the North Dakota state capital enjoying the Bismarck Symphony and their orchestra, it’s important to take time to pause and remember why we have this Independence Day holiday, and who sacrificed their lives in order for us to have freedom.

“Go U.S.A!” exclaimed one Bismarck resident.

“Go U.S.A!” said Caroline and Malia from Bismarck.

From all of us here at KX News, we would like to wish everyone a safe and happy 4th of July weekend.

If you want to head out to the Bismarck State Capitol and see the symphony, festivities begin around 7:30 p.m. and end around 10:30 with fireworks.

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