KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- For the United States' 233rd birthday, the City of Knoxville celebrated in a big way: food, music and of course fireworks.

An all day festival sprawled the grounds of the World's Fair Park.

There was a patriotic tribute, crafts for the kids and a concert by the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra.

The event drew thousands-- many from outside East Tennessee.

The fireworks were smaller this year to save money, but the spectators Volunteer TV spoke to said they couldn't tell the difference.

Organizers say clean up will take a few hours after everyone leaves for the night.