From fireworks soaring above the Washington Monument to hot dogs being downed in New York City’s famed frank-eating contest, Americans aren’t shy about celebrating their nation’s birthday.

Many places are rolling out long-established Independence Day traditions on Monday.

In Philadelphia, where the founding fathers approved the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, the national birthday party runs all day.

In Washington, military families are joining President Barack Obama for his family’s last July Fourth at the White House.

In New York City, the fireworks are over the East River — and possibly also at the annual Nathan’s Famous hot dog eating contest.

But Connecticut’s capital city, Hartford, canceled its July Fourth festival and fireworks display, citing spending cuts.

(AP)