Cape Coral lit up with excitement as the Fourth of July celebrations took over the city.
Despite a rainy start, attendees at the Red White and Boom event were not deterred.
Mia Beaver and her family were among the early arrivals, leaving their house at 3 p.m. to join the festivities.
"We left the house at 3:00, got here at like 3:10," said Beaver.
The rain gave way to sunshine just in time for the celebration, and Beaver was unfazed by the weather.
"I'm really happy, I don't mind if it rains. Dance in the rain I guess," she said.
Vendors and tents lined the streets, offering a variety of goodies including tattoos, rowing machines, and food.
People of all ages enjoyed the event, with some using it as an opportunity to showcase their patriotic fashion. The inspiration for these dazzling outfits was clear.
"America, America, America!" was the enthusiastic response.
David Close, a Cape Coral resident, has been attending the Red White and Boom celebration for more than a decade. He was prepared for the weather challenges.
"It happens every year. We prepare for the worst and expect for the best... Oh it's a sea of people. In years past I say 30,000 to 40,000 people and every year it's always something new," said Close.
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the fireworks, with many attendees expressing their excitement.
"The fireworks!" several attendees exclaimed.
As the evening wrapped up, it was clear the day had been a success, with the bridge scheduled to reopen at 3 a.m. Saturday.