ACWORTH BEACH - The Fourth of July was celebrated Sunday in the modern American tradition of food, music and sun in Acworth, which of course meant that residents of the All-America City flocked to their beloved lake.

There, they had a spectacular glimpse of a fireworks display that lit up the night sky and colored the lake with its reflection after each loud burst of energy. It's billed as one of the largest fireworks extravaganzas in metro Atlanta.

The celebration took place at Cauble Park on the shores of Lake Acworth. The event included food, games and lives music from bands.

The city of Acworth, the Acworth Business Association and 106.7 Atlanta's True Oldies sponsored the festivities. Acworth police, Cobb police and the Georgia State Defense Force provided security. Free shuttle service was offered between downtown Acworth and the lake.

"It's close by, live music, lots of room and they like to swim," Susan Cunard, 50, of Kennesaw said of the event, as she nodded toward her daughter Emily, 12, and son Ryan, 14. Her husband, Philip Cunard, 49, busied himself with a bottle of sunscreen as temperatures climbed to a sunny 85 degrees.

James Albright, Acworth parks and recreations director, said he expected a turnout of between 15,000 and 20,000 people for the fireworks.

"Things are going well right now. It's about as good of weather as you can possibly get on the Fourth of July," he said.

Local band Sons of Thunder took to the stage to kick off the event. Next, the Freedom Band and the Journey Band each performed during the afternoon, leading up to the headliner, FLASHBACK, at about 8 p.m. The fireworks display followed at 9:30 p.m.

John and Allison Bass of Kennesaw followed their family traditional of going to the event with their daughter, Miranda Stancil, 22, and her boyfriend, Jack Hermanski, 20, both of Kennesaw, and other relatives.

"We come every year," said Allison Bass, 46. "The only reason we come is the fireworks and it's fun to people watch."

Rip and Maxine Turner of Kansas City attended the event for the first time with their son Mike Davis. The family drove their recreational vehicle from Missouri. Both Rip Turner, 71, and Davis, 51, served in the Air Force.

"All Fourth of Julys are enjoyable," said Rip Turner, a Vietnam War veteran. "You realize that we are free to a certain degree. I kind of feel sorrow for my comrades who are over in Afghanistan."

The city of Powder Springs hosted its 15th annual Independence Day Celebration along with FISH 104.7 FM on Sunday evening at Powder Springs Town Square.

The family-orientated event featured over 15 food booths, an entertainment stage and a variety of children's activities.

The Mustangs band headlined the evening's entertainment, playing everything from Percy Sledge to Brooks & Dunn. About 15,000 people were expected to attend the free event.

The cities of Marietta and Kennesaw held their Fourth of July celebrations, complete with music and fireworks, on Saturday.