Culture

Thoughts on the Nation's Birthday in Bristol, Rhode Island

We talk with Heidi Vermilyea, who runs the souvenir stand for the Bristol, R.I., Fourth of July celebration, the nation's oldest observance of the holiday.

Published July 2, 2026, 8:20 PM
Updated July 3, 2026, 7:03 AM3.7K
Share𝕏f
Thoughts on the Nation's Birthday in Bristol, Rhode Island

Thoughts on the Nation's Birthday in Bristol, Rhode Island

Audio will be available later today.

We talk with Heidi Vermilyea, who runs the souvenir stand for the Bristol, R.I., Fourth of July celebration, the nation's oldest observance of the holiday.

Share𝕏f
News17 is committed to delivering accurate, fair, and thoroughly researched reporting. If you believe this article contains an error, please contact our editorial team at corrections@news17.net. We take all reports seriously and will issue corrections promptly when warranted.