What Is Independence Day?
Independence Day is the day that celebrates the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The Declaration was signed in 1776 by the Continental Congress, declaring that the thirteen colonies were free from the rule of the British monarch. This turned the thirteen colonies into united and free states.
John Adams, one of the authors of the Declaration, wrote to his wife that this day“ will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore.”
He was right in his predictions, even on the day of the signing, the people involved knew the significance of this moment, and looked forward to celebrating it with fun and festivity for generations to come.
When is Independence Day 2021?
Independence Day is always celebrated on July 4th, the anniversary of the date of the signing in 1776. Independence Day 2021 will fall on a Sunday, making it a great opportunity to extend your celebrations all weekend long. Who doesn’t want a weekend filled with fun, food, and fireworks?
What is the best way to celebrate Independence Day?
If you’re looking to have a great day, filled with all of the classic American ways to celebrate Independence Day, here’s exactly what your day should look like to ensure you and your family and friends get the most out of the day.
1. Start the morning off by watching a local parade
Most towns host a local parade on the 4th of July, which can be a great way to see everyone in the community, and is fun for all ages. Many schools and groups make their floats and pass out candy to the kids. There’s usually a little bit of the history of the day portrayed, and you’ll see some fun music and dance displays, animals, and more. Parades are always a great way to get everyone together and excited for the day ahead.
2. Enjoy a barbecue lunch and some cool refreshments
One of the most popular ways to celebrate Independence Day is with food. Usually, people gather with friends and family to cook a big meal or picnic outside and enjoy the summer weather. Make sure to stock up a big cooler with chilled drinks and ice pops to stay cool in the July heat. Some of the most popular foods to eat on this day are hot dogs, hamburgers, watermelon, popsicles, chips, and cookies. Have fun making food together and coming up with your own spin on these classics, or adding in your favorite summertime dishes.
3. Play some games!
You’ll definitely want to be prepared with some fun outdoor games for everyone to enjoy during the day. Some favorites are corn hole, a friendly baseball game, Capture the Flag, a water balloon fight, and a watermelon eating contest. There are many options for games that you can make yourself or purchase ahead of time, and most can be fun for everyone from children to adults. Try to get or make red, white, and blue versions of your favorite games to put a patriotic spin on classic activities. Some friendly outdoor games in the summer can bring people together to have some fun while being active and put a smile on everyone’s face.
4. Red, White, and Blue!
Speaking of red, white, and blue, you can really have some fun with this color scheme on the 4th of July. The patriotic colors can be used on practically anything, from clothing to temporary hair dye, costumes, games, food, and more. You can really go all out with these colors, so don’t hesitate to put them on anything and everything that you can on this holiday. The more items that you can find in these colors, the better! Have some fun being the life of the party by putting together the wackiest outfit in this color combination, or experiment with what kinds of treats you can make using these colors. This is something easy that can be incorporated into practically everything in your celebration, and like St. Patrick’s Day and the color green, it is one of the most crucial parts of the holiday.
5. Fireworks!
Last but definitely not least, to have a proper 4th of July celebration, you have to end the night by watching fireworks. Depending on where you live, you may have to go to a special location to watch a public firework display, which can be elaborate and amazing, or you might be able to make your own in your backyard with your favorites. Whatever the case, it can be fun to start the evening with small fireworks such as sparklers and party snaps that kids can play with and enjoy, and then get cozy somewhere with a good view of the upcoming firework display. Ending this hot July night on a day that’s been filled with activities and fun is definitely best when you can settle down somewhere, wrap up in a blanket, enjoy some s’mores, and watch a firework show is a perfect way to wind down.
With a day like this, you’re sure to have a fun and special time with family and friends that will be remembered forever. Independence Day is a relaxing and fun summer day full of history and celebration, and a chance to come together with people close to you to enjoy time together. The 4th of July is coming up, so make sure that you’re prepared with your best red, white, and blue colors, recipes, games, and plans to make sure you have the most fun and memorable celebration of the holiday. You might also like to check out our memorial day event guide as well.
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