Independence Day

My favorite holiday is just around the corner.  It usually involves picnics, parades, fireworks, barbeques, and family fun.  It’s the 4^th of July! July 4^th celebrates America’s independence and is also known as Independence Day.  On July 4^th, 1776 the United States adopted the Declaration of Independence and officially seceded from the Kingdom of Great Britain.

Independence Day is a national holiday; so all non-essential government workers and institutions have the day off.   The day is usually marked by patriotic displays that take place outdoors such as family picnics or barbeques.   Many people enjoy dressing up in red, white, or blue while they enjoy the festivities.  Parades are often in the morning while, many attend fireworks displays that occur at such places as parks, fairgrounds, or town squares in the evening.

Independence Day fireworks are often accompanied by patriotic songs including “The Star-Spangled Banner” which is the USA’s national anthem, “God Bless America”, “My Country Tis of Thee”, “God Bless America”, and “America the Beautiful”.  In my hometown aerial firework displays were often accompanied by ground shows.  Major firework displays are held in New York on the East River, in Chicago on Lake Michigan, in San Diego over Mission Bay, in Boston on the Charles River, in St. Louis on the Mississippi River, and on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

The 4^th of July offers something for everyone.  Whether you love food (which will be discussed next week) or the entertainment of parades and fireworks you are sure to find something you’ll enjoy.  Happy Independence Day!

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/waisian/3659617324/

June 26th, 2009 by Aspen Streetman | Posted in Independence Day | (0)