In a Letter to his wife, Abigail Adams, on July 3, 1776, John Adams wrote, “The Second Day of July 1776, will be he most memorable Epocha, 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 oughts to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”

While he was a few days off, Adams’ idea of the celebration of America’s Independence was nearly spot on even 247 years ago. From small-town U.S.A. to the big cities, the 4th of July, America’s independence from Great Britain, is one of the most celebrated holidays in the nation. Every year, the American people celebrate with parades, fireworks, music, and so much more.

Many people’s favorite tradition is the fireworks and the displays that the cities put on. What many don’t know though, is that fireworks were a part of the very first Independence Day. Early U.S.settlers brought their love of fireworks with them to the New World and integrated them into the first Independence Day, which we now continue to do each year. This entertainment has proudly been a part of America since the very beginning and it will be so throughout our nation’s future.