The Beach: An American Tradition

Immigrants from all over the globe along with stark geographic differences help create the rich tapestry of American life. Our local and regional cultures are defined by the Old World traditions we carried with us and the New World landscapes that we settled. But despite these regional distinctions, there is one American tradition that helps define us and draw us together. Every summer, along the long coasts of our vast country and at nearly every lake in between, Americans young and old, rich and poor, pack up their beach towels and hit the beach.

A Piece of Americana

Beach culture is as much a part of the American consciousness as American cinema and summer baseball. We associate the shoreline with family and friends, laughter and play—all the things we work so hard to enjoy. The beach is the sweet reward for our labors. It’s where we go to refocus on what’s truly important and to recharge our bodies and minds.

Show Your Pride

Patriotism runs deep on the beaches of our nation. American flags fly from schooners and fishing boats alike. American flag beach towels unfurl to reveal versions of Old Glory right on the sand. Millions celebrate our nation’s independence on the shores of lakes because a fireworks display is twice as stirring when mirrored on the surface of still water. The effect is especially moving on the coasts, where our beautiful land begins and ends.

Every year it seems more American flags are showing up on our beachwear as well, though you don’t necessarily need an American flag beach towel to get in the spirit. Even if it’s not exactly a reproduction of the Stars and Stripes, deep reds, navy blues, and whites are the perennial tasteful fashion choices.

The Beach in American Art

The beach has defined other American art forms besides fashion. Surf music is its own genre, and artists like the Beach Boys and Jimmy Buffet have made entire careers out of writing and playing songs about the beach. Movies and entire television series about the beach and beach culture have proven successful for over half a century and show no signs of letting up.

Quality Time

The beach is part of who we are as a nation. It symbolizes both new beginnings and happy endings, which are characteristic of our shared American Dream. So don’t be bashful about wearing your patriotism on your sleeve, especially at the beach. Break out the American flag beach towels and pack up the grill and plenty of hot dogs. Summer is here and the beach is calling us, one and all.

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