American traditions help tell the story of who we are. They connect generations, bring communities together and create memories that last a lifetime.
In this special edition of “What Happened in AZ?,” members of the Arizona PBS staff reflect on the American traditions they enjoy most and why those customs continue to be meaningful today. From backyard barbecues and Fourth of July celebrations to family holiday gatherings, sporting events, community festivals and other cherished rituals, these traditions help shape our shared experiences and strengthen our connections with one another.
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, this conversation offers a timely reminder of the values and moments that unite people across different backgrounds and generations. While traditions may vary from family to family and community to community, they often reflect common themes of togetherness, service, gratitude, celebration and hope.
Through personal stories and reflections, Arizona PBS staff share how these traditions have influenced their lives and why they believe they remain an important part of the American experience. Their perspectives highlight the diversity of traditions found throughout our country while celebrating the connections they create.
“What Happened in AZ?” continues to explore the stories, people and ideas that shape Arizona and our nation. We invite you to watch, reflect and consider the traditions that matter most in your own life.
What American tradition do you enjoy most? Join the conversation, and share your favorite American traditions with us on our Facebook page.
Each Friday we’ll be sharing a peek into the past that shows what life was like here, in what’s now Arizona, at the time of the American Revolution ahead of the semiquincentennial or 250th anniversary of the United States.
Stay tuned to learn more about “What Happened in AZ?” each week.
Corporate funding for THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION was provided by Bank of America. Major funding was provided by The Better Angels Society and its members Jeannie and Jonathan Lavine with the Crimson Lion Foundation; and the Blavatnik Family Foundation. Major funding was also provided by David M. Rubenstein; The Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Family Foundation; Lilly Endowment Inc.; and the following Better Angels Society members: Eric and Wendy Schmidt; Stephen A. Schwarzman; and Kenneth C. Griffin with Griffin Catalyst. Additional support for THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION was provided by: The Arthur Vining Davis Foundations; The Pew Charitable Trusts; Gilbert S. Omenn and Martha A. Darling; Park Foundation; and the following Better Angels Society members: Gilchrist and Amy Berg; Perry and Donna Golkin; The Michelson Foundation; Jacqueline B. Mars; Kissick Family Foundation; Diane and Hal Brierley; John H. N. Fisher and Jennifer Caldwell; John and Catherine Debs; The Fullerton Family Charitable Fund; Philip I. Kent; Gail Elden; Deborah and Jon Dawson; David and Susan Kreisman; The McCloskey Family Charitable Trust; Becky and Jim Morgan; Carol and Ned Spieker; Mark A. Tracy; and Paul and Shelley Whyte. THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION was made possible, in part, with support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
