Independence Day
Independence Day (most Americans simply call it the "Fourth of July”), along with Thanksgiving, is easily the most popular American holiday celebrating the anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776). At the time, the people of the 13 British colonies located along the eastern coast of what is now the United States were involved in a war of independence from British rule which lasted until 1783. The Declaration was written at the Second Continental Congress by a committee whose dominant member was Thomas Jefferson. It was signed by the fifty- six leaders from colonies and for the first time in an official document the colonies were referred to as the United States of America.
Today July 4 is a day of picnics and patriotic parades, a night of concerts and fireworks. Family-oriented celebrations of Independence Day involve trips to recreational areas such as lakes or parks. Picnic menu usually includes hamburgers and hotdogs easily prepared on outdoor grills, summertime beverages such as lemonade and beer, and obviously hand cranked ice cream. In addition to gossip and storytelling, celebrants may use the day for picnics, fishing, or sports. Frequently, family and neighbors gather at dusk so that participants can watch community- wide fireworks displays.
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