There’re not many things that Americans can agree about, but nearly everyone enjoys the Fourth of July. After all, the liberties and freedoms of these United States are worthy of celebration. Besides, the holiday is so much fun. What’s not to like about picnics, parades and, of course, fireworks?
The tradition of lighting fireworks on July 4 is as old as our nation’s founding. Before the ink was even dry on the Declaration of Independence, John Adams envisioned celebrations much like what we see today. In a letter from Philadelphia, dated July 3, 1776, Adams told his wife the anniversary of the Declaration would be celebrated for generations to come.
“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,” he wrote.
Public fireworks displays honoring Independence Day began the following year. Americans have continued the practice ever since. In south-central Missouri, illuminations will fill the sky from one end of the 16th Senatorial District to the other, as towns and cities all along the I-44 corridor and beyond hold public celebrations this week.
Fort Leonard Wood hosts one of the largest Independence Day fireworks displays in the area. Fourth of July festivities on the base begin at 8 a.m. with a 5K run from the Davidson Fitness Center, followed by a car show, musical performances and evening fireworks at Gammon Field.
Fireworks are just part of four days of fun in Rolla, as the 2019 Lions Club Carnival gets underway, July 3-6, at Lions Club Den and Park on Highway 63. Fireworks displays are scheduled both Thursday and Saturday nights. If the carnival isn’t your speed, St. James will host its annual fireworks exhibit at the Veterans Home.
In Dent County, Salem will hold a patriotic-themed fun run/walk at 8 a.m. on the fourth. The annual downtown parade gets underway at 6 p.m. on Franklin Street. Fireworks go off after dark at the Dent County Commons.
Residents of Crawford County have a couple of options. The city of Cuba sets off fireworks on July 3 at Hood Park. Steelville’s July 4 Freedom Fest begins at 2 p.m. at the city park with a car cruise-in, followed by concerts and a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.
The greatest concentration of Independence Day pyrotechnics in the area can be found at the Lake of the Ozarks. Nearly every major resort and many of the larger dock-side establishments will host fireworks displays. There’s far too many Lake of the Ozarks fireworks shows to list here, but you can find impressive displays throughout the area. The resorts all charge admission for their events, but intrepid boaters may be able to find good viewing spots on the water. For those who would rather leave the navigation to a professional, a number of cruise excursions offer meals and entertainment along with great views of the fireworks from the water.
With so many rockets glaring red, blue and all other colors of the rainbow throughout the area, you won’t have to travel far to take in a fabulous Independence Day spectacular. Grab your lawn chairs, pack up the kids and head to one of the many fireworks displays scheduled this week. I’ll be out and about, taking in the fun with you. If you see me, be sure to let me know what’s on your mind.
It’s my honor to serve as your senator for the 16th District. If you have questions or need any assistance, please call my office at 573-751-5713 or log onto my webpage at https://www.senate.mo.gov/brown for more information.
