Independence Day – The 4th of July Celebration in Seattle (video)

Well, I’m now back in Japan after a refreshing 2-weeks back home… I could probably write forever about all the things I did, however, I’ll focus on the celebration of the 4th of July for now, America’s Independence Day – the ever-popular holiday that coincided with my trip home this year. This cultural exchange blog is for my Japanese students and friends who have never experienced this American holiday.

America celebrates the 4th of July as Independence Day because it was on July 4th, 1776 that members of the Second Continental Congress met in Philadelphia and adopted the final draft of the Declaration of Independence – a document officially declaring separation from Great Britain, thus resulting in the birth of the United States of America. Celebrating Independence Day is impossible without fireworks, an American tradition. While back home, I went to the fireworks show at Gasworks Park, the most popular place in Seattle to take part in the festivities. Check out my video below of the fireworks show at Gasworks Park in Seattle!