This Year July 4, 2026, was a very special day. America was celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of The Declaration of Independence, as well as the revolution of the 13 colonies.
To help celebrate this anniversary, I was watched the movie “Independence Day.” This great movie was also celebrating its 30th anniversary. During the week I also watched a different Rocky film each day. This included the Creed Trilogy which involves Apollo’s Son. Since Rocky is from Philadelphia, where the Declaration was signed, it was a great coincidence that this November, the Rocky film itself is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Also, during the Independence Day week, there were other celebration events around the country involving the 250th anniversary of America and Independence Day, such as a parade in Park Slope on June 28.
On Independence Day, Nathan’s restaurant reviewed their own top moments of New York as part of America's history. This included Joey Chestnut’s moment on July 4, 2007, when he defeated 6-time Champion Takeru Kobayashi to return the championship belt back to America and usher the era of Joey Chestnut.
As for this year’s women’s hot dog eating contest Miki Sudo won and retained her title for the 12th time. She ate 38 hot dogs. By the way, Joey defended his own title by eating approximately 68 hot dogs.
There was of course music. There were also news reporters and VIP guests. There was a special boat parade with tall boats and navy vessels from 50 states. And finally, at the Brooklyn Bridge, Macy’s held its fireworks show with music performances of great singers. It was the 50th anniversary of this great display. I just hope that next year’s Independence Day will be as great. I especially want to wish luck to Miki and Joey at next year’s Nathan’s hot dog eating contest. Hope you both continue your spectacular winning streak.