DETROIT – Thousands of people are heading to the water and beaches to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday.
Belle Isle has been busy all day as families rush to find the perfect spot to spend the day.
The key to enjoying the holiday is arriving early, whether you plan to swim or host an elaborate family barbecue.
For family, that’s what the holiday is all about.
Celebrating Independence Day on Belle Isle is a tradition for the Williams family, who brought all the fixings for their cookout.
Keith Williams prepared chicken, string beans, and ribs for the day.
After scouting the perfect spot the previous week, the family began setting up at 5:30 a.m.
“We had scouted the spot because the bathrooms are right there, and then all this shade, we need the shade,” said Keith.
Their cousin, a DJ, traveled from Ohio to be with them.
“I’m originally from Detroit and moved to Dayton, Ohio. We traveled 200 miles to be here just to have a good time,” said DJ.
Meanwhile, on the beach, families cooled off with dips in the water.
Gloria shared her holiday wishes: “Happy Fourth of July, everyone. Be safe, enjoy, have fun.”
When asked what it’s like bringing her little one to the island, she said, “Oh, he’s excited.”
Her child said he was going to play and have fun all day.
As the day unfolds, families continue to celebrate the Fourth, with one special celebration coming up: Michael’s sixth birthday on Sunday.