This year the 4th of July falls on a Friday, which creates an extended weekend to enjoy the many activities that have already begun and will continue as our Nation celebrates our independence from Great Britain.

The Continental Congress, representing the original 13 colonies that eventually became the United States we know today, officially issued their historic “Declaration of Independence” on July 4, 1776, although the actual vote for independence had been taken two days earlier.

The next year the anniversary was celebrated in a variety of ways across the 13 colonies, including gunshot salutes, parades, music, speeches, and fireworks. Massachusetts is recognized as the first state to make “Independence Day” a state celebration. Congress made Independence Day an unpaid holiday for federal employees in 1870, and in 1938 this was upgraded to a paid federal holiday.

The actual Declaration of Independence document was written mainly by Thomas Jefferson, although the other members of the “Committee of Five” were consulted and helped shape and revise the final draft that we know today.

Two of the people who signed that original document, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, later served as President of the United States. Amazingly, both men died on July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the Declaration.

Although he did not sign the Declaration, Founding Father James Monroe also became a president and died a few years later on July 4, 1831.

Today the July 4 holiday period is often the busiest travel day in the nation, with many people taking advantage of the summer weather and seasonal school break traveling to spend time with family. Outdoor cooking has become a major tradition, as well as picnics and other food related activities, often near a body of water so participants can cool off swimming, wading, fishing or boating.

Local celebrations include the recent July 1 “Haappy Birthday, America” Downtown Block Party on Main Street Tuesday evening. The fun filled activities included free hot dogs and dessert, live music, a “Most Patriotic Costume Contest,” a musical chairs showdown, pie eating contest, dance off, a water fun zone, a free movie, and much, much more fun.

This event was sponsored by the Seminole Arts Council, Seminole Chamber of Commerce, and the Seminole Downtown District, with contributions from many other local organizations, businesses and individuals.

The downtown area was filled with an estimated 500 local citizens enjoying the evening of fellowship with their friends, family and neighbors.

The 4th of July celebration will continue tonight with the traditional fireworks show takes place downtown. The fireworks will be shot from the old rodeo grounds near Main Street and Strother, and can be seen from miles around. This patriotic display is made possible by the Seminole City Council.

Most people will continue celebrating on Saturday and Sunday as the fun spills over into the regular weekend.