Crowds in Tri-State flock to beaches, parades for 4th of July

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Communities throughout the Tri-State area marked Independence Day with parades and fireworks displays, while many people spent the final day of the holiday weekend soaking up the sun at area beaches.

Crowds began arriving early Monday morning under sunny skies at Jones Beach in Nassau County.

Thousands were expected to remain for the fireworks display at the beach Monday night.

Kristin Thorne has more from Jones Beach.

For many, it is a yearly family tradition.

"We do this all the time, my son loves it here and my grandson. This is the number one place and we spend the whole day and night," said Millie Franco of Flatbush.

On Long Island, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo marched in the Southampton 4th of July Parade, while New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio marched in the Travis 4th of July Parade on Staten Island.

There were many people who chose to soak up the sun down the Jersey Shore to celebrate the 4th of July.

Toni Yates has more from Long Branch.

Also in New Jersey, a 122-year tradition in the Ridgefield Park. There are fewer than 13,000 residents in the town, but the Fourth of July parade is a very big deal.

Anthony Johnson has more from Ridgefield Park.

Meanwhile, on Staten Island, Mayor Bill de Blasio was part of an annual parade in the Travis section.

Dave Evans has more from Travis.