The City of Hoover‘s annual Fourth on the 1st celebration also marked the beginning of the city’s America 250 observance. Thousands gathered July 1 at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex to cheer Hoover native Chris Richards and the U.S. Men’s National Team, enjoy food, entertainment and fireworks, and help the city earn a place in the Guinness World Records book.

The record-breaking moment came when participants simultaneously opened aluminum beverage cans, earning Hoover the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most drink cans opened at one time. According to the City of Hoover, 2,842 people took part, surpassing the previous record of 2,747. The attempt was conducted in partnership with Coca-Cola and officially certified by Guinness World Records.

Although thunderstorms delayed the celebration, many attendees stayed for the evening’s activities. City officials also opened the gates to the Hoover Met for this year’s event, creating a larger gathering space for the community celebration. The event featured live entertainment, family activities, a City Council hot dog eating contest and a 10-foot apple pie served with free ice cream. The evening concluded with a fireworks display.

Fans also gathered at the Hoover Met for a World Cup watch party hosted in partnership with Birmingham Legion FC to support Richards, as the U.S. Men’s National Team defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 to advance to Round of 16 of the championship.

Following the announcement, the City of Hoover posted, “We did it, Hoover. 2,842 cans. We achieved the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most drink cans opened simultaneously.”

The celebration also officially launched Hoover Salutes 250, the city’s series of community events commemorating America’s 250th anniversary over the coming year.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].