the ideal Independence Day

Independence Day during my childhood was never much of a holiday. It was just like Saturday: a day when dad didn't have to work, we had to weed the garden, and there was an extended family BBQ in the afternoon. Sometimes we watched fireworks on television in the evening, but usually we were sent to bed. I knew from watching movies that in some parts of the US, the 4th of July was a big deal. There were parades and flags and parties and, most intriguingly, fireworks that were bigger than sparklers. But not at my house (or my state, since any remotely interesting fireworks are illegal).

Since leaving home, I've spent the 4th in quite a few different locations, one of the worst, surprising because because you'd expect it to be so great, being DC, and the best being Provo, Utah, and had some really great and some disappointingly mediocre days. The best Independence Days (best being most celebratory, patriotic, and/or meaningful) went something like this:

Start with some kind of morning event: a fun run, hot air balloon launch, bike ride to a bakery for doughnuts, or parade, for example. Take a moment to reflect on America's history by attending a colonial reenactment or reading the Declaration. In the afternoon, go to a family/friend picnic or barbecue (bonus if there's a pool, lake, or boat involved). This lasts into the early evening when you have your own pre-show fireworks. Then pack up and head over to a park, where you can comfortably watch your city's fireworks display, hopefully accompanied by music, whilst consuming a berry pie and some carbonated beverages.

Some of the least patriotic holidays I experienced were ones that included several events from the description above. And some of the best ones were missing all sorts of quintessentially American things like hamburgers or marching bands. We spent one 4th of July in Guatemala City with ex-pats we'd never met, bad food, and weird "American" games, but it was delightful and reminded us of the culture where we came from. What really makes a meaningful Independence Day is the sense of community you feel, not just fondness for your neighbors or affection for your extended family. I mean a real sense of connection and belonging to your people, flaws and all. Without that it's just a day off.