Two hundred thirty two years ago  John Hancock was one of the only to sign his signature on the Declaration of Independence on the 4th of July, stating we were finally free from Great Britain’s rule. Today the 4^th of July is the ONLY national holiday that celebrates the United States. So this is our one chance to totally blow out the celebration with all our American pride. 

            Since 1870 July 4^th has been an unpaid federal holiday and we should celebrate that too…a break from work…the one thing that keeps Americans bogged down and stressed. (Unless you’re me and you totally enjoy your job.) 

            So how shall we celebrate our patriotism besides with illegal fireworks? Well New York holds the famous hot dog eating contest and prideful baseball games can not be missed. Picnics, barbeques, beer drinking…oh so much fun stuff to do.

Celebrations in Galveston include the annual Independence Day parade that everyone can be a part of right in downtown beginning at 10am at 25^th and The Strand. After the parade patriots can not go with out the American staple of lemonade and hot dogs. Ha and other countries say we don’t have culture. So our culture might be simple in some areas but hot dogs and hamburgers are GOOD. Did you know the Railroad Museum has free entrance that day too? So if you have not been now is your chance.

The Oooos and Ahhhs of beautiful fireworks start at 9:15 on 37^th and Seawall. This spectacular show can be seen for blocks down the seawall so pick your seat and join in on wooooows or the singing of  patriotic songs such as the national anthem, "God Bless America", "America the Beautiful", "This Land Is Your Land" and "Stars and Stripes Forever." Do you remember the words to all of those?

Enjoy this celebration and the freedom that we have in United States even if we are suffering a “crisis” at the moment. After living in three other countries I know I truly love and appreciate living in America and will be celebrating with an abundance of pride. From wearing my gaudy American t-shirt at the parade to eating BBQ, drinking iced tea and maybe even holding a sparkler or two, I will be celebrating the 4^th of July. What will you do?