Auburn Alabama Area Real Estate Living

Sometimes we are so distracted with the marketing and entertaining aspect of holidays, that we overlook the stories of blood, sweat, tears and lives that were expended for the sake of justice and freedom.

A single document, written by Thomas Jefferson and named the Declaration of Independence, was signed, sealed and delivered on July 4th, 1776, officially declaring America’s independence from the royal rule of England. The United States of America would now be “running on its own steam” as the Brits might have said. It was a tough fight, beginning with a war of words and escalating to the Amercan Revolutionary War. Human lives and the destruction of land and homes became the price and currency to pay for freedom.

The list of grievances that our forefathers voiced against the crown and what formally separated the colonies from England, was viewed as an act of treason. At first, John Hancock, and the 55 men who added their signatures after his, were in danger of being executed.

1776 was a year of celebration for the colonies. On July 4th in 1777, a year after the Continental Congress adopted the final draft of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia, bells rang and ships fired guns, firecrackers were set off and candles were burned, and the tradition continued forever afterwards on the 4th of July. In 1941, Congress declared the Fourth of July a federal holiday.

Celebrate freedom! The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend the professional displays. Be aware of your surroundings, and watchful, especially, of small children and pets that have sensitive hearing and can become easily frightened by noise.

Annual Freedom Celebration will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the OHS football practice field. All are welcome to this family night of fun. Lots of games and activities are planned for children. Musical sounds (provided by the local band, MUSE) and skydivers will entertain everyone until dark, when the evening will conclude with a City of Opelika fireworks show.

Bring your friends and family, picnics and blankets, and have a safe and happy fourth!

at Duck Samford Stadium; Gates open at 6:00 p.m.with musical entertainment provided by local faves, the Weston Burt Band with their great vocals and classic fiddling and banjo fun. Bring your picnic blankets! Briggs & Straton are sponsoring this event, and, in addition to the music, will be providing activities and treats for kids. You can also purchase food on site from Country's Barbecue.

Map and parking info can be found here.

[note: this family-friendly event does not permit any alcohol or glass bottles]