From fireworks lighting up the night sky to hot dogs and burgers sizzling on the grill, the 4th of July is a celebration of all things American. It is also a day to appreciate and reflect on the values that we often take for granted—freedom, independence, and justice for all.
Read on to learn about some fun festivities for the family that will light up your Fourth of July, the history of Independence Day, and where the tradition of celebrating the holiday with fireworks came from.
The Fourth of July—The History Behind the National Holiday of Independence Day
The 4th of July, or Independence Day, is celebrated because it is considered to be the day that the United States of America became independent from Great Britain.
This is because July 4 was the day of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the official document stating the country’s independence, written mostly by Thomas Jefferson and adopted by the Continental Congress in 1776.
In 1870, the U.S Congress made the 4th of July a federal holiday. This was followed in 1941 by an expanded provision to grant a paid holiday to all federal employees.
Why Do We Celebrate with Fourth of July Fireworks?
Fireworks on the 4th of July have been a tradition since the first organized, annual celebration of Independence Day that took place in Philadelphia in 1777.
In honor of the 13 colonies, a ship’s cannon fired a 13-gun salute. Later that night, the Sons of Liberty followed suit and also set off fireworks over Boston Common.
The Pennsylvania Evening Post described the celebration as follows: “At night there was a grand exhibition of fireworks (which began and concluded with thirteen rockets) on the Commons, and the city was beautifully illuminated.”
Four Patriotic Party Ideas That Will Add a Spark to Your Independence Day
1. Bring Together Friends and Family for A Red, White, and Blue Backyard Barbeque
What could possibly be more American than firing up the backyard grill and getting everyone together to chow down on the classics—Some juicy, delicious burgers and dogs?
Invite over some of your closest friends and family for a freedom-filled day packed full of mouth-watering food, fun outdoor games, and precious quality time spent together.
Bring out the football or soccer ball, the cornhole, or the baseball bat for some good, old-fashioned friendly competition and a whole lot of fun.
Is the weather looking less than favorable? No worries. Even if it’s pouring, don’t let that rain on your patriotic parade.
Move the party indoors and make it an All-American potluck of classics such as stove-cooked hot dogs and burgers, baked beans, apple-pie, watermelon, and mac n’ cheese.
You can still have a backyard-league blast by playing other games together such as board games and pin the hat on Uncle Sam, gathering everyone around the TV to watch The Patriot, and engaging in closer and more connected conversation with your loved ones.
No matter how you choose to celebrate your Fourth of July, enjoying the company of family and friends is a beautiful way to celebrate our country, its diversity, and all of the amazing people who have helped create it.
2. Flaunt the Colors of Our Flag with an All-American Outfit
The three colors of the American flag are symbolic of everything that America stands for:
Red- “The color red represents hardiness and valor, as well as courage and readiness to sacrifice. It is also sometimes said to represent the blood shed by those who have fought to protect our freedom and our country.”
White- “The color white stands for purity and innocence. Pure, because we are independent from other countries and hold true to our ideals.”
Blue- “The color blue signifies justice for all, as well as vigilance and perseverance. A reminder that we must remain watchful and strong.”
Wear your pride, literally, by sporting a star-spangled style that incorporates these cherished colors.
3. Show off Your American Pride by Participating in a Patriotic Parade
Let freedom ring! It’s time to show off that “And I’m proud to be an American” spirit.
Participating in parades on the Fourth of July is a great opportunity to bring people from the local community together to celebrate and commemorate the independence of the United States. It's an opportunity to connect with neighbors, friends, and even strangers in a joyful, energetic, and exciting environment.
These parades are also typically family-friendly events, appealing to people of all ages. Both children and adults alike can awe at the vibrant floats, clap along to the lively patriotic tunes, proudly wave their flags, and collect candy or small favors tossed by parade participants.
Perhaps most significantly, Fourth of July parades evoke a sense of pride and patriotism—They foster a positive and festive atmosphere, creating a sense of togetherness and unity as Americans.
Click here to see what kind of local Fourth of July parades are going on around you.
4. Find a Fireworks Show for the Fourth Near You
A Fourth of July celebration would not be complete without the unapologetically American tradition and physical representation of the love we have for our country—That's right, fireworks.
Fireworks displays on the Fourth of July often attract large crowds, with people gathering in parks, beaches, or designated viewing areas to experience the hypnotically beautiful, colorful designs of fireworks streaking the night sky.
Some fireworks displays are even synchronized with patriotic songs, adding a musical element to the visual spectacle. The fireworks are carefully timed to match the beats, melodies, or themes of the music, creating an immersive and moving experience.
If you want to end your night with a bang, a fireworks show with stunning bursts of red, white, and blue is the perfect finale to a celebratory day of the United States of America.
Click here to find some Fourth of July fireworks displays near you.
Happy Fourth of July!
