Independence Day – July 4th 2010
History of Independence Day and… Things to do in Atlanta on July 4th 2010
Independence Day
The Fourth of July commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by delegates from the 13 colonies in 1776. This most important American national holiday is traditionally observed with parades, band concerts, picnics, and fireworks. Writing in July 1776 from Philadelphia, John Adams related to his wife, Abigail: “Yesterday the greatest Question was decided, which ever was debated in America, and a greater, perhaps, never was or will be decided among Men. A Resolution was passed without one dissenting Colony ‘that these united Colonies, are, and of right ought to be free and independent States, and as such, they have, and of Right ought to have full Power to make War, conclude Peace, establish Commerce, and to do all the other Acts and Things, which other States might rightfully do…’ This . . . Day . . . will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. . . . It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”
Text from The Declaration of Independence
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. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.
We invite you to read a transcription of the complete text of the Declaration at www.archives.gov
This was reprinted from Almanac.com
Things to Do in (and around) Atlanta, GA on July 4th 2010
Fireworks Shows and Fun
Lenox Square Mall – The largest fireworks show in the Southeast. Get there early – I recommend taking MARTA. The show begins at dark (around 9:30 PM)
Centennial Olympic Park – FREE festivities all day (beginning at noon). Again, I recommend taking MARTA.
Stone Mountain Park - USA Today names Stone Mountain Park’s Fourth of July Celebration a “must see fireworks show”.
Decatur’s Parade, Concert, and Fireworks
Light Up the Lake – Lake Lanier Islands Beach and Waterpark
4th of July Star Spangled Beach Party at Callaway Gardens
Fabulous Fourth Festivalat the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers Ga
Of course there is always your neighbor’s house – or host your own backyard BBQ.
And, then the Atlanta area is conveniently located within easy driving distance of several lakes – like Lake Lanier, Lake Oconee, Lake Hartwell, and there is even a lake at Callaway Gardens.
Where ever you are for the 4th of July - Be Safe and Have Fun!
