The Story Behind Independence Day
Every year we enjoy fun Independence Day events and activities to ring in the holiday. Of course, we all love to celebrate the day with fireworks, parades, concerts, and cookouts. But do you know the story behind the Fourth of July? What we’re actually commemorating is the birth of the USA as an independent nation. Not on July 4, but on July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence. Two days later, delegates from the 13 colonies formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, thus the Fourth of July holiday.
The first organized celebration of Independence Day occurred in Philadelphia on July 4, 1777. It also marks the tradition of setting off ceremonial fireworks. Massachusetts became the first state to make July 4th an official state holiday, but it has only been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941. In 2021, Independence Day is on Sunday, July 4, but the federal holiday will be observed on Monday, July 5.
…and here’s one more fun fact for you. The new One World Trade Center building was designed to pay homage to the year that America obtained its independence from Great Britain. The iconic building is 1776-feet tall.
There are several Independence Day events to enjoy in and around Lake Country this year, including:
Madison Fireworks Display – To celebrate Independence Day, the Morgan County Parks & Recreation Service is putting on a fireworks display at Bill Wood Park on Saturday, July 3. The fireworks begin at dark, but the pre-show festivities start at 7 P.M., including fun activities for kids along with several yummy food options.
Margaritaville Fourth of July Weekend – Oconee Brewing Company is hosting a “Margaritaville Weekend” on Saturday, July 3, from 7-10 P.M. Sons of Sailors, the Jimmy Buffett tribute band is performing live. Also, Chef Ken from The Ripe Thing Market is preparing a delicious low-country boil featuring fresh, local Georgia coast shrimp, sweet corn, potatoes, and sausage.
Honoring Local Heroes – From 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. on Saturday, July 3, Farmview Market is hosting an Independence Day event that celebrates local law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, as well as active and veteran military personnel. All local heroes receive a free BBQ lunch with a sandwich, chips, slaw, and drink (while supplies last.) But everyone in the family can enjoy the farmers market, BBQ, live music, and more.
Independence Day Concert & Picnic – At 7 P.M. on July 3, head to the front lawn of the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center with your picnic baskets, coolers, tables, and chairs for an old-fashioned, free event. While picnicking you’ll enjoy live, patriotic music by the Classic City Band of Athens. Tunes include festive marches, jazz, pop, excerpts from operas and musicals, traditional and classical selections.
At Harbor Club, we plan on celebrating Independence Day with a pool party for our members from 11 A.M. to 2 P.M. on Saturday, July 3. There’ll be live music from Joshua Hilley and more fun happenings, so please stay tuned to our email newsletter for party details. That evening, the festivities continue at The Boathouse on Lake Oconee. The Joshua Hilley Band will perform a free concert lakeside from 6-9 P.M., so be sure to stop by (via boat or car) to keep the celebration going with great music, food, friends, and family.
After this past year, we certainly have much to celebrate this Independence Day. But, no matter which events you enjoy, we wish you a wonderful Fourth of July holiday. Cheers to fun gatherings together, and of course, our independence.
To learn more about living the Harbor Club Life, contact us today.