The 4th Again

Today is July 4, the 249th Independence Day in the U.S. and the start of an anticipated year-long celebration leading up to the 250th anniversary in 2026.

This flag hangs outside our apt entry

As most folks already know, Independence Day commemorates the July 4, 1776 adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress, wherein the 13 original colonies declared independence from Great Britain.

Did you know that as of 1870, July 4 became a federal, but unpaid, holiday and stayed that way until 1941? That's when it was expanded to a paid federal holiday. Today, government offices, banks and post offices will be closed plus many private businesses. However, most big business retail and grocery stores will remain open with the exception of U.S. giant retailer, Costco, which is closed for the day.

This flag also is by our apt entry

There's no parade in Nashua for this holiday. Instead, the second annual 4th of July ceremony will be held at 9 a.m. in front of Nashua City Hall. As in 2024, it's again supported by various local veterans groups: Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, and Disabled American Veterans. We're planning to attend this event, as we did last year, hopefully there will be a larger public response than last year.

As in past years, Holman Stadium, the local baseball stadium, will have a full day of activities including a game by the Silver Knights collegiate baseball team, free concert, drum and bugle corps performance and a fireworks show at dusk. We won't attend any of these events, but usually watch the fireworks display from our 5th floor apt.

Our plans for the holiday are spending it with friends who live in Nashua. The same couple we regularly met up with for weekly dominoes  games during the pandemic. A big plus is that their home has a small back porch for outdoor dining, weather permitting. The menu is summertime fare. My food contribution was detailed in yesterday's post (crockpot pulled pork and homemade salads). Our hosts are providing drinks, appetizers, dessert and the outdoor venue.

The photo below was taken a number of years ago when the three grands celebrated together in PA. Many long-time followers will remember this trio from previous posts. The oldest (grandson) graduated high school in June and his sister, the oldest granddaughter is in high school. The youngest granddaughter (their cousin)  is now an avid soccer player. 

Our 3 grandchildren a number of years ago

The photo was a birthday gift to their grandfather, Patrick, who will celebrate again in mid-July and it's one of our favorites.

However our fellow U.S. bloggers will be spending this holiday, we hope it's special for you, once again. 

Enjoy Your Weekend

We're staying close to home, holiday travel is not favored