BOOM….BANG....CRACKLE....POP! America cherishes the sound of fireworks exploding in celebration of our country’s independence.

Many of us love spending time with family and friends as we light our sparklers and bottle rockets.

We can’t get enough of the bursting colors; we’re mesmerized by their beauty, and we feel a deep sense of national pride when we see them explode. The tradition of fireworks on the 4th of July seems to have always been around, but have you ever wondered how it started it? 

Well, it all began because John Adams, our second president, felt that the day should be celebrated, lest later generations forget the importance of the occasion. On July 3, 1776, he wrote to his wife Abigail, “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 forever more.” A year later, Congress coordinated a display of fireworks in Philadelphia, and the practice quickly became cemented as a national tradition.  

So how are you expressing your patriotism this year? Are you setting off fireworks with friends and family? Grilling with your neighbors? Heading downtown? If your schedule's still empty, check out this short list of options within an hour’s driving distance from Auburn: 

AUBURN

The City of Auburn is hosting a free celebration behind the home side of Duck Samford Stadium. Enjoy great food, live music, free goodies and fireworks! The gates open at 6 p.m., entertainment—Reuben’s Bell, a southern band with a modern twist—plays at 7 p.m., and the fireworks begin at 9 p.m. Barbecue will be available for purchase, or you can bring a picnic. Don’t forget to bring a blanket or chairs! You can find parking in the lot off of East University Drive by the old Duck Samford fields.  

LAKE MARTIN

For more than 15 years, Russell Lands On Lake Martin has presented impressive 4th of July fireworks shows at the Lake Martin Amphitheatre. This year, the gates will open at 5 p.m., with a concert featuring The Bank Walkers and Sweet Tea beginning at 6:30 p.m., and the fireworks will begin at 9 p.m.

MONTGOMERY

The City of Montgomery will be celebrating with inflatables, live music and fireworks at their 4th of July Picnic on the River. Starting at 5 p.m. in Riverfront Park, the city will host assorted games and activities and a rib-eating contest sponsored by Dreamland. The city will start the fireworks after a Sweet Young ‘Uns concert at the Riverwalk Amphitheatre, and admission is free.

PINE MOUNTAIN, GA

Callaway Gardens is celebrating Independence Day with their annual Star Spangled Beach Party. Between Saturday and Monday, they’ll have beach games and activities, fireworks and bands playing. At 9:30 p.m. on Monday, they’ll start their stunning fireworks display.

Wherever you choose to celebrate, I hope you enjoy this very special holiday and take some time to remember the men and women who have made great sacrifices for our freedom.

Editor's Note: Setting off fireworks is actually illegal within the Auburn city limits, so please celebrate responsibly.

Be well, Auburn.