Fireworks Light Up Night Sky As Steady Rain Falls From It
By Andrew Kramer and Trang Do
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Fourth of July celebrations in Philadelphia ended in less than ideal weather conditions. But people tried to make the most of the situation.
Joe Rodgers said it was still a pretty fun day on the Parkway.
"I guess despite the weather it was pretty good," Rodgers said.
Rodgers was among the fortunate ones in the rain.
"I had an umbrella I was OK."
Some were like Joe and made sure to prepare for the weather.
"We camped out here because we said, we'll get a little protection from the tree, and I thought this was going to be a good spot to see the fireworks," said Linda Lemieux from Plymouth Meeting.
While others admitted, they didn't prepare at all.
"We didn't even think about it," said Tonia Marriott of Glassboro, NJ. "We didn't bring nothing for the rain. And we knew it but we only had one umbrella, but it was raggedy, so we left it at home.
The tens of thousands of people there using umbrellas, garbage bags, even covering their heads with folding chairs to stay dry.
Angelica Morales thinks the weather actually added to the experience.
"I think everyone is happier with the rain," she said. "everyone stands up with the music, you know."
The crowd was not afraid to sing their hearts out and dance in the rain to a soundtrack of hits from the 70's.
A host of legendary Philadelphia R&B and soul groups filled out the lineup, including The Intruders, Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes and The O'Jays.
"I love the spirit, I love the diversity, and of course, the entertainers!" said Theresa Gonzales of Trenton, NJ.
Regardless, people definitely got what they wanted, a great show to celebrate July 4th, topped off by a dazzling fireworks show over the Philadelphia Art Museum.
"This is our first time here," said Naliani Mercado, 9, of Philadelphia. "This is a good experience for the first time, it's awesome."
