Fans of the US men’s national soccer team might still be licking their wounds after its defeat to Ghana in the World Cup on Saturday, but that doesn’t mean this July 4th has to be a glum one.
The America Day Celebration, organized by the Taichung American Chamber of Commerce, will take place on Sunday, rain or shine, from noon to 9:30pm along the Jingguo Parkway (經國園道) opposite the People’s Park (市民廣場).
Founded in 1993, the America Day Celebration gives revelers a chance to eat, drink and listen
to live music at a traditional American-style
outdoor festival.
“The 4th of July is the highlight of the summer when it comes to all American celebrations,” says Doug Habecker, the Taichung American Chamber of Commerce’s event committee chairman.
Food includes all-American barbeque favorites like hot dogs and hamburgers and cold beer. Other vendors will offer an international parade of treats from Taichung-based dining establishments, including ice cream, desserts, tropical cocktails, Indian wraps and German sausages. A booth operated by the Taichung American Chamber of Commerce will raise funds for its KIDZ charity, which supports Taichung orphans.
Live bands playing throughout the day represent country and western, jazz and other genres associated with the US. They include Nick Fothergill at 4pm, ’Round Midnight at 5pm, Three Day Bender at 6pm, Way Soon at 7pm, Wailin’ Soul at 8pm, and hip-hop group Dr Reniculous Lipz and The Skallyunz at 9pm.
For the first time, this year’s America Day Celebration includes activities geared towards children, including games and contests, face painting, a play-dough sculpting station and horse rides.
“July 4th this year happens to be the first day of summer vacation in Taiwan, so we hope kids and their families will come and make a day of it,” says Habecker.
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