Favorite 4th of July Traditions

On July 4th, 1776, the American colonists currently under British rule declared their independence from King George. Americans remember this day and celebrate it every year, usually to the tune of fireworks and scrumptious cookouts.

There are a number of ways to plan a great Fourth of July gathering, and I'm going to list some of them here. Hopefully you'll take one of my ideas to heart and actually use it for your own Independence Day bash.

Fireworks Are Part of the Fun

Tradition is key when it comes to the Fourth of July. I also love American's favorite way to celebrate the holiday - fireworks. If you live in a state that hasn't banned the sell, possession, or use of fireworks, then I can't recommend them enough. They really do spice up your Fourth of July gathering and all the children will be amazed at the big loud explosions!

I still have vivid memories of Independence Day get togethers with my family, and the ones that always stood out were the ones where we had some type of firework. If you want to make a lasting impression, invest in some before the big day.

Make History Come Alive

Going along with the tradition is key mentality, why not do something that almost no one does at Fourth of July gatherings? Read some of the writings by the Founding Fathers who made all of this possible! I have never heard of anyone doing this, and I've never experienced it at any Independence Day gathering that I've attended.

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

The power of these words from the Declaration of Independence is enough to make us all pause and take a moment to be thankful for our freedom.

The Founding Fathers had some of the most insightful, wise, and intelligent ideas ever presented in human history. Their writings and ideas are the bedrock of our great nation. Remember them, and celebrate Independence Day in their honor!

July 4th Cookout and Barbecues

Last of all, have a cookout. Barbecues might not be the cornerstone of the American Dream, but without them this country just wouldn't be the same. Kids today are so fattened up on fast food that don't even know what a real burger tastes like! If you're like me and you have a family that enjoys barbecues, then you know exactly what I'm talking about. Barbecues are fun for the whole family and the food tastes delicious. Don't dismiss a barbecue for your Fourth of July gathering.

The Real Meaning of Independence Day

Independence Day is a day to remember and recognize our freedom and liberty. Without the works of Thomas Jefferson, Thomas Paine, Ben Franklin, James Madison, and a number of other liberty-minded men from our past, we might be celebrating British Unification Day! Make your Fourth of July party loud, exciting, delicious, and traditional. Keep the spirit of liberty alive this summer!

Independence Day DVDs

If fireworks, history and cookouts aren't enough for you, you might enjoy these films. You could easily host an American History film festival of your own starting with these films.