By Donna Westfall – July 4, 2018 –

On this day 242 years ago, Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence which had been largely written by Thomas Jefferson.  On July 3, 1776, John Adams wrote a letter to his wife, Abigail.  Here’s an excerpt,

• “(Independence Day) will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other. From this time forward forever more. You will think me transported with enthusiasm but I am not. I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure, that it will cost us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the gloom I can see the rays of ravishing light and glory. I can see that the end is more than worth all the means. And that Posterity will triumph in that days’ transaction, even though we should rue it, which I trust in God we shall not.”

In Crescent City, at 9 am you can enjoy Homemade Pie & Ice Cream Social at the Museum located at 577 H Street until 2 pm.

At 10 am, the Parade begins On H Street, down to 3rd Street and ends up on Front Street at noon.

Art Festival at the Cultural Center located on Front Street from 10 am to 5 pm.

Music, vendors and fun in  Front Street Park until dusk when the Fireworks begin.