We wanted something different for the 4th of July. Bob did his research and found festivals all around but we didn't want the usual. Our toes were thirsty to travel so we decided on a long weekend in Bryson City, NC because of the dinner train. The mountains were beautiful, walking through town it felt like a step back in time, we walked down the steps of our room right onto the main part of a street festival with live music, food and crafts were all great but the two hour 4th of July train ride was the reason we came. Complete with Uncle Sam, a pulled pork barbecue dinner in a dining car, a strolling fiddler playing patriotic songs, souvenir photo op, and beautiful scenery on a moving train. What's not to love about that? But none of this was the best part. I asked where the fireworks would be that night and we found that everyone gathers on the bridge with their folding chair. Strolling back to the bridge after our dinner train and sightseeing, we got set up for the fireworks show. The crowd was friendly and a rock band played in the background. The bridge slightly arches and it was draped in red, white and blue bunting that fluttered in the slight breeze. The rain we were supposed to get did not fall. Nice night. The best part happened just before the fireworks started. The band finished their last set and there was quiet while everyone waited for the fireworks. Then it happened. A group of young people in front of us decided to stand up and without music, sang an impromptu God Bless America. I thought, I am so proud of them! It was such a warm and wholesome memory. The first firework exploded and children squealed with delight as a patriotic quilt of shimmering colors burst over head. The fireworks were nice but the warm feeling of the night when the young people sang for their country was worth the whole trip. Back home, we put our souvenir photo on the mantle as a special memory and yes, we would go there again. Hopefully soon.
