Sunday is July 4^th – Independence Day for the United States of America! An annual commemoration of “nationhood” for the last 243 years, consecrating the deliverance of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4^th of 1776. On this day, the United States of America was officially declared as its own country. It was on July 2^nd that the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence from Britain, but the declaration was not finalized until 2 days later. The Declaration of Independence written principally by Thomas Jefferson, along with fellow committee members John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and William Livingston. As Revolutionary War began in April of 1775, many patriots began proclaiming their resistance to King George III and Great Britain’s Parliament. The first official US Independence Day celebration in the summer of 1776 symbolized the “kings death”, by way of a mock funeral – marking the end of monarchy and tyranny from Great Britain and the rebirth of liberty. 

Although Massachusetts became the first state to make July 4^th an official holiday, Philadelphia was the first state to hold an annual commemoration of independence on July 4^th in 1777 with festivities that included parades, bonfires, concerts firing muskets and canons – including the famous 13 cannon shot salute, in honor of the 13 colonies that existed at that time.

Officially becoming a federal holiday in 1870 and a paid holiday in 1941, Americans observe this special holiday by continuing tradition of festivities and cannons by way of fireworks, outdoor barbecues, concerts, and other leisurely activities. Of course, raising the American flag accompanied by the Star-Spangled Banner is also common for many citizens across the country. However you decide to celebrate, please be safe and have fun. Happy Independence Day!

Looking for activities to do with family and/or friends this weekend? Here are a few local events that may spark your interest:

Fireworks at the Fountain

July 4^th Celebration at the Apopka Amphitheater  

Celebration of Freedom