ATHENS – More than 100 American expats in Athens had the full Fourth of July experience thanks to Democrats Abroad-Greece on the beach at ENOA, the Hellenic Nautical Club of Greek-Egyptians.

Democrats Abroad is the official arm of the Democratic Party for American citizens living outside the United States. The group encourages American citizens to register to vote in U.S. elections and to obtain their absentee ballots, a serious year-round task for its dedicated volunteers, but the order of the day on the Fourth of July was fellowship fueled by burgers, beer, deserts and more, and a fine fireworks display.

Guest of all ages enjoyed old and new friends. There was a pinata for the children and native Greek pianist/vocalist Mari Papardaki rocked the rock favorites.

The guests were welcomed by local chairperson Karen Lee and she introduced recent college graduate Emma Janisis-Hensley. Her moving reading of the Declaration of Independence was followed by everyone singing the American and the Greek national anthems.

The fireworks display was a delicious slice of Americana.