Americans are expected to spend an average of $300 feting the nation’s birthday this year, up from an average of $190 last year, according to a study by Visa – a whopping 58 percent increase. Spending plans vary by region, with Northeasterners planning to spend the most ($454), followed by Southerners ($339), Westerners ($206), and Midwesterners ($195). Just 12 percent of those surveyed said they wouldn’t celebrate the holiday at all – down from 21 percent last year. More than 40 percent of Americans planned to buy fireworks this year, spending an average of $28, with men planning to spend twice as much as women. (full story)