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Living Like a Local: Fireworks and the 4th of July

 Living Like a Local: Fireworks and the 4th of July

(1776) Thomas Jefferson, June , Rough Draft of the Declaration of Independence. [Manuscript/Mixed Material] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, https://www.loc.gov/exhibits/jefferson/images/vc49.jpg/.

This past weekend was July 4th, and you may notice some fireworks still lingering in your neighborhood. So what is the history behind this tradition? In 1776 on the 4th of July, the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence. July 4th is an integral historical and cultural holiday in the United States. It all started with one of the most well-known break-ups in history--the Declaration of Independence. Signed two days after the Continental Congress voted for independence, the Declaration announced the official separation of the thirteen colonies from the Kingdom of Great Britain. No ghosting there. The document clearly spelled out the issues the colonies had while ending any political affiliation to Great Britain. While the Declaration does not provide any founding governing structures or principles like the U.S. Constitution, it is perhaps the most widely-recognized early political document across the U.S. Its statements ultimately set the tone for the future of the U.S. government. 


Due to its significance in U.S. history, July 4th is an integral U.S. holiday as many people gather to celebrate the country’s independence and self-determination. Fireworks, parades, family and friend gatherings, and concerts often mark the occasion. It is common to hang out with friends, enjoy fireworks, or go see a fireworks show in your local area! These fireworks often continue past the holiday. Depending on where you are located, many people continue these celebrations until their supply finally runs out. My neighbors, for example, seem to have a large supply of fireworks left. While it makes for colorful evenings, I recommend a set of earplugs if your neighbors are also particularly festive during this period!

Highsmith, C. M., photographer. (2008) July 4th fireworks, Washington, D.C. District of Columbia Washington D.C. United States Washington D.C, 2008. July 4. [Photograph] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, https://www.loc.gov/item/2010630678/.

Missed the fireworks? Fireworks are just one aspect of the holiday. You’ll find there are a lot of ways to learn more about this celebration. I recommend….


Have a movie night! Many U.S. movies revolve around themes of independence, individualism, discussions on what defines citizenship, resilience, social action, equality, belonging, and pride for national service.

Lee, R., photographer. (1941) Movie theater. Southside, Chicago, Illinois. Illinois Chicago United States Cook County, 1941. Apr. [Photograph] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, https://www.loc.gov/item/2017788750/.

Here are some often-recommended movies around this holiday period to consider watching….


Born on the Fourth of July (1989) 

Hamilton (2020)

National Treasure (2004) 

The Namesake (2006)

The Brutalist (2024)

Minari (2020)

The Joy Luck Club (1993)

Jaws (1974) Yes! This classic is set on July 4th weekend. 

Stand and Deliver (1988)

Hidden Figures (2016)

Independence Day (1996)

Waking Dreams (2018)

Harriet (2019)

All the President’s Men (1976) 

On the Basis of Sex (2018)

Brooklyn (2015)

Rocky (1976)

Captain America: The First Avenger (2011) 

Top Gun (1986)

Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

Bain News Service, P. (ca. 1910) China in N.Y. 4th of July Parade. , ca. 1910. [Between and Ca. 1915] [Photograph] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, https://www.loc.gov/item/2014689817/.


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