There is no better time for boating on Watauga Lake than the 4th of July. It is often the busiest day of the season for a reason. On Wednesday morning, boaters set out for a day they would never forget. The day started with a nice cool breeze and relatively quiet waters. The early birds enjoyed a peaceful morning on the water cruising, tubing, water skiing, and of course swimming. As the day went on, people began crowding at Lakeshore Marina and other places to decorate their boats in red, white, and blue to celebrate the birthday of this great nation, and of course to take place in the annual 4th of July boat parade. Some people put a few flags on their boats while others put streamers, flags, and posters. And if you really love being patriotic, some people played patriotic music as loud as they possibly could. It is so amazing to see so many people gather to unite in patriotic celebration. After the parade, fun on the water resumed with water skiing, wake boarding, tubing, swimming, etc. To wrap up an incredible day, boats from all over the lake gathered outside of Lakeshore Marina for the annual fireworks. As the sun was setting, more boats kept appearing until the number of boats that came to witness the fireworks looked more like an armada of true American spirit. As the fireworks concluded, the crowd of observers broke out in cheers and people honked their horns to wish the USA a happy birthday. There truly is no better way to enjoy fireworks than with family and friends out on the water. If you love having fun on the lake, being patriotic, and relaxing with friends and family, then you loved the 4th at Watauga and cannot wait to return next summer.