The Fourth of July is one of the most eagerly awaited and joyfully celebrated days at Camp Highlander. We dress up in gaudy outfits from Walmart or Amazon, blast American-themed music in the dining hall, and kick off the festivities with a spirited freedom 5K.

Fireworks spectacularly bookend our Fourth of July celebration. The day begins with a thrilling bottle rocket launch, perfectly timed with the wake-up bell, as patriotic music echoes from the dining hall, setting an exhilarating tone for the festivities ahead. The excitement ignites from the very start, promising a day filled with joy and fun. We end the day with a classic American square dance and a spectacular fireworks show. This is hands down my favorite day of the session, and it lived up to every expectation, delivering an unforgettable experience for all!

TO CELEBRATE THE 4TH TODAY WE:

• Reflected on the American Flag as Bryan read the Old Glory poem by by Howard Schnauber this morning at Reflect at the Rock
• Dressed up in patriotic colors and costumes ALL DAY
• Had the best surprise waiting for us on the table at breakfast…a festive July 4th t-shirt to commemorate our day
• Ran or walked the Freedom 5k, which is 3 laps around Old Forge Mountain (Fastest Boy: Kingston L. Cabin 33, Fastest Girl: Millie S. Cabin 10)
• Played American-themed music all day EVERYWHERE! (Music makes everything more fun!)
• Enjoyed a Color Bomb on our athletic field after the 5K
• Participated in fun competitions around camp in the afternoon
• Danced a good old fashioned square dance in the gym
• And enjoyed the Camp Highlander Freedom Fireworks Show before falling fast asleep

Other Details of the Day

• Weather: We woke up this morning to bluebird skies and sunshine! It was a beautiful morning for the run and the color bomb. Right in the middle of rest hour, the rain started to fall but only lasted about 45 minutes. We it lifted, we all dispersed around camp to participate in our 4th of July competitions.
• Meals: We enjoyed a day of classic American favorites. For breakfast we had bagels and cream cheese, scrambled eggs, sausage patties, a fruit bar with yogurt and granola. For lunch we were SO HAPPY to enjoy chicken tenders and french fries, a salad bar and a sandwich bar. For dinner, Mac’s pulled pork and chicken barbeque was a huge hit! We had baked beans, macaroni and cheese, coleslaw and a salad bar too! During announcements, they announced “we have a birthday tonight…it’s America’s birthday!” The disco ball was flipped and everyone started to scream. Tonight’s dessert, banana pudding with whipped cream and Nilla wafers.