As only Lewes can, the First Town in the First State celebrated the independence of the United States of America in a variety of unique ways leading up to the extravagant fireworks finale hosted by Go Fourth Lewes.
Residents and visitors started searching for the optimal fireworks spot shortly after the Doo-Dah Parade wrapped up about 5:45 p.m. Canalfront Park slowly filled with families enjoying a picnic on the spacious lawn, opting to view the fireworks from a calmer location than the busy beach. Rooftops and decks featuring red, white and blue banners played host to a wide-range of guests, choosing to view the show from a higher elevation. The most action, as always, came on Savannah Beach, where families and guests filled nearly every inch of sand.
Lifeguards patrolled until 8:30 p.m., at which time their stands were utilized by adventurous viewers clamoring for a better spot, or story to tell their friends. Brave swimmers even ventured out into the Delaware Bay to experience the colorful blasts within reach of the tides.
The Lewes Police Department, Lewes Fire Department and Sussex County Emergency Operations ensured the safety throughout the night, directing traffic and providing assistance for those in need. There were no incidents reported.
The excitement throughout the crowd was palpable all night, as residents and visitors alike celebrated the Fourth of July by watching the fireworks show, expressing their appreciation during their walk back from a show funded for the people by the people.
![Some people found their way to the top of the dunes to catch the show. Officials might not be OK with this viewing spot.](/sites/capegazette/files/2022/07/field/image/IMG_5641.jpg)
![“Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale, a tale of a fateful trip.” Just kidding, this really was just over a three-hour tour to view the fireworks on the decks of the Thelma Dale IV.](/sites/capegazette/files/2022/07/field/image/IMG_5535.jpg)
![Some families gathered on the grass of Canalfront park to enjoy a dinner picnic before sundown and the fireworks began.](/sites/capegazette/files/2022/07/field/image/IMG_5530.jpg)
![Good drinks and great laughs with friendly people. The porch of Charles Atwell and Ray Holden was a welcoming place July 4, featuring freshly made sangria. Shown are (l-r) Charles Atwell, Ray Holden, Nicky Cleary, Taia Cosentino, Tony Cosentino with dog Sophia in his lap, and Patti Walker.](/sites/capegazette/files/2022/07/field/image/IMG_5544.jpg)
![The Mullins family proudly displays the Lewes flag on their front porch while a gigantic American flag is draped on one side of their house.](/sites/capegazette/files/2022/07/field/image/IMG_5550.jpg)
![Practicing their volleyball bumps are (l-r) Katie Boyle from Virginia and Quinn, Grace and Blake Mullins.](/sites/capegazette/files/2022/07/field/image/IMG_5564.jpg)
![The Dairy Queen line stretched to the Savannah Beach parking lot, leading to multiple people enjoying ice cream as their treat during the fireworks.](/sites/capegazette/files/2022/07/field/image/IMG_5568.jpg)
![Lewes Beach Patrol remained on duty until 8:30. Shown are (l-r) Capt. Mark Woodard, Brady May, Amelia Meyer and Grayson Donohue.](/sites/capegazette/files/2022/07/field/image/IMG_5590.jpg)
![Shanyia looks on as Jabril Neal, Gamaliar Cruz Torres and Daveyonn Conquest fight for a pass thrown by Lamar McCoy.](/sites/capegazette/files/2022/07/field/image/IMG_5598.jpg)
![Some kayakers and paddleboarders attempted to set out to watch the fireworks while adrift on the Delaware Bay.](/sites/capegazette/files/2022/07/field/image/IMG_5600.jpg)
![Checking out the fireworks from their sand pit are (l-r) Colin, 7, Madden, 3, Shane, 7, Leo, 7, and Drax, 4.](/sites/capegazette/files/2022/07/field/image/IMG_5617.jpg)
![Madison Randall, Allison Randall and Caitlin Randall sit cozied up in their beach chairs as the show goes on.](/sites/capegazette/files/2022/07/field/image/IMG_5623.jpg)