Locals hold belated Fourth celebration

LYNN – As fireworks lit up the sky, Lynners celebrated America’s birthday a day late along Shore Drive Tuesday night.Patriotism was in the air at Red Rock Park as people began to claim their spots to enjoy the show.”I go every year,” said Roberta Mertsiotis, who brought along her 16-year-old granddaughter Amber. “I have been bringing her since she was a baby.””I love the fireworks here,” said Amber.For many, the seaside fireworks are a tradition. “We go every year,” said Erin McGovern. McGovern went along with a group of her friends from Lynn Classical. “It’s a tradition for us.””They are beautiful. There is nothing better than this,” said Madlin Altoundji, who has lived in Lynn for 15 years.”It is a family tradition for us,” said Lynn resident Penni Moiouns, who accompanied her daughters Tiffany, 22, and Tara, 14. “It is right in our backyard. I feel like I can go out and touch them.”The annual fireworks brings a sense of community to Lynn. It offers a chance to meet up with old friends and bond with the family. “I get to see a lot of old friends here because we are all here for the same reason,” said Tiffany Moiouns. “It keeps us grounded. It is nice to feel a sense of community.””It is beautiful. It is nice to go to a family-orientated place,” said Mertsiotis. “It is the one time of year you see families together.”With the world always racing to score the hottest technology gadget, it is nice for some to break away from that even for one day. “Sometimes, with technology, you lose touch with people. Here you can make the connections again,” said Moiouns.Even teenagers enjoy the family atmosphere the fireworks bring. “It brings us together like a family,” said Lynn Classical student Lynn Ly, who was there with a group of her friends. “All our friends are here. It’s like (the fireworks) are just for us.”Of course, when talking about fireworks in Massachusetts, it is inevitable to compare them to the legendary fireworks display in Boston.Moiouns has been to the Boston fireworks twice but this year decided to attend the Lynn show over Beantown’s Monday night celebration. “I still like these better,” she said. “I think people go to the ones in Boston for the show aspect. The ones in Lynn are better to see a city’s culture. It brings so many different people together. There is nothing better sharing this day on the beach with friends and family with this amazing view.”While the stunning view of the fireworks over the water is a major perk for most, many enjoy the neighborhood camaraderie that comes with the show. “It is the one day that everyone gets along,” said Moiouns.”I come here and recognize people I haven’t seen in years,” said Mertsiotis. “It is a great way to catch up with people.”Altoundji can normally see the fireworks from her house but this year she wanted to get closer and people-watch. “I wanted to be closer to everyone. It has been great. I enjoy it every year,” she said.Sometimes the mood gets so festive that people burst out into song. “You will have one group start singing The Star Spangled Banner and then everyone will join in. It is awesome,” said Moiouns. “I love this time of year. It doesn’t get better than this.”