I remember celebrating America’s 200th birthday in 1976. The spring leading up to that July, I was in the 3rd grade. We talked a lot about America’s Bicentennial Birthday in our class because our teacher that year was Mrs. Bice! My mom even made my sister and me matching bicentennial outfits—polyester vests and skirts. The pictures are blurry and faded, but yes, that is Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and other patriotic images on those vests! 😂
Of all the holidays that aren’t Thanksgiving or Christmas, the 4th of July has always been my favorite. I love the pageantry and patriotism. Fireworks and music. Family and friends—and food!
Growing up, we watched fireworks in several different places—most notably at baseball games or the botanical gardens. When our kids were younger, we had many July Fourth celebrations at my parents’ house on a large lake—days filled with friends and family, boat rides, swimming, food, and fireworks.
But perhaps the most memorable celebration was the year I was 18 and in an internship program in Washington, D.C. The boy I’d met (who is now my husband!) took me to the Mall to hear the bands and watch the fireworks. We saw The Oakridge Boys, Katrina and the Waves, and The Beach Boys! It was the last of the big concerts on the mall, with over half a million people in attendance.
When we moved into our current home six years ago, I was excited about hosting July 4th parties, since our backyard has a perfect view of our city’s fireworks display! But alas, we’ve only spent a couple of July 4th’s at home. For the past few years, the academic and think tank arm of my husband’s organization has hosted a historical tour over July 4th, which means we have been in Boston. As we will be again this year. But I can’t complain too much. We’ll be watching fireworks from a boat in the Boston Harbor, and my sister and her family will (again) be enjoying our backyard view without us.
Despite all the fun of the celebration itself, I think I appreciate this holiday because it is all about history—the birth of our nation by the Declaration of Independence being one of history’s most dramatic moments. It is good to celebrate. It is good to remember.
America has never been a perfect place, but by the grace of God, it has continued to stand as a beacon of freedom and hope around the world.
Happy 250th birthday, America!
What is your favorite way to celebrate the Fourth of July?