When I think of Independence Day, I don't first think of history books or famous speeches (though maybe I should).
I think of parades, Old Navy flag shirts, and boxes of fireworks waiting patiently for nightfall.
I think of dads gathered around the fireworks, carefully planning the perfect show. I think of moms in the kitchen preparing dishes;
BBQ chicken, hot dogs, hamburgers, potato salad, fresh watermelon, and every side imaginable.
I think of sunshine.
I think of sprinklers running across the lawn, games of cornhole and badminton, children racing around barefoot, and that familiar fear of a hornet finding its way into an open can of soda.
Most of all, I think of gathering.
As a child, and now as a parent, Independence Day has always been one of my favorite holidays. While the history behind the day sometimes faded into the background, the gathering never did. Family, friends, neighbors, food, laughter, and long summer evenings have always been at the heart of the celebration.
That sense of connection is what inspired me to create Celebrating Independence Day.
My hope is that this resource helps bring a little more of the story behind Independence Day into your home. The food, the games, the fireworks, and the traditions are already there. This guide simply adds another layer. One that helps children understand not only how we celebrate, but why.
Because when we understand the stories behind our traditions, those traditions become even more meaningful.
However you choose to celebrate this year, I hope your Independence Day is filled with sunshine, laughter, good food, and the people you love most.
Happy Independence Day.
