Jaclyn Kelley / Eyewitness News
Email: | Twitter: @jkelleyWWL

NEW ORLEANS -- It was a sea of red, white and blue in Algiers as thousands gathered to watch the fireworks light up the sky this Fourth of July along the river.

Algiers resident Rick Tralsen lives in the neighborhood and says this is the only place he goes to celebrate Independence Day.

'I remember when it was just a little tent like these back here over on the streets,' he said. 'So, since its inception really.'

He said it's the best seat in the house, and he isn't alone.

'The skyline's right behind y'all, you get to see the fireworks, there's not huge crowds, you let your kids run around,' said Councilwoman Kristin Gisleson-Palmer.

But for many, the night wasn't just about the live music, snowballs or cold ice cream cones. It's about celebrating our freedom and the soldiers who fight to protect it.

'I totally respect the soldiers that have fought and died for this country, and we're all very grateful for that,' Tralsen said.

Gisleson-Palmer said, 'Not only do they serve our country and serve us so well and we're so proud of them, that they are just such an integral part, and we just thank them so much for their service.'

This was the 23rd annual event for Go Fourth on the River.

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