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• drew_s - Jul 03 2009 | holidays, news, international

  No mention of the "Fourth of July in February" celebrations I remember from childhood. I think those were put on by the Embassy.

  Quoted: Often the official event won't take place on the Fourth at all. The big ceremony will be that week, but the embassy will close on July 4 itself to allow for more casual gatherings, which generally involve less speech-making and more beer.

  Quoted: Overseas parties are heavy on pomp and circumstance. Marine security guards present the colors, and someone sings "The Star-Spangled Banner." Embassies near military bases may enlist the services of military bands for even more elaborate performances. In some cities, the July Fourth party is the hot ticket of the summer, and invitees (including local leaders, journalists, and other ambassadors) turn out in elaborate religious regalia or full military dress.

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• Tim