July 4th Traditions

Whether it be by grabbing your flag, heating up the grill or just hanging with your friends and family—it’s finally the time of the year to celebrate Independence Day and all it symbolizes. The significance of July 4^th dates back to (surprise surprise) the American Revolution, where the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence and therefore the birth of American Independence. Throughout history, and across the country July 4^th means different things, so lets take a look at the various traditions and celebrations that occur for the birth of the nation…

1. Fireworks: While fireworks seem like something simple enough, and are fun to watch, did you know that fireworks are a commemoration of July 4^th because John Adams himself wanted them to be? In a letter to Abigail Adams on July 3, 1776, John wrote that the celebrations of the American Independence should involve “Pomp and Parade, with Bonfires and Bells and with Illuminations from one end of the continent to the other.”
2. Walking the Freedom Trail: A 2.5 mile route through Boston, the Freedom Trail takes visitors through 16 of the most historically significant sites of the American Revolution. From museums and churches, to ships, burying grounds and meetinghouses, the Freedom Trail is one of the best preservatives of the American Revolution, and is an incredible and educating Fourth of July tradition in Boston.
3. Burgers and Booze: When you think of the 4^th of July, the first thing that probably comes to mind is a sizzling and steamy BBQ. But here’s a fun fact—the laid back and beer filled celebrations commonly associated with Independence Day were actually George Washington’s doing! During the victory celebrations, Washington allotted double rations of rum to his soldiers, and in the years following the 1776 win, public readings of the Declaration of Independence were traditionally followed by huge, town wide feasts. It’s no surprise we hold Barbeques so close to the heart—they were started by our forefathers!

Eco18 hopes everybody has a fun, BBQ filled, and most importantly, safe Fourth of July weekend! Now you can show up to your parties with a little more knowledge of the history of your celebrations.