Time for my periodic rant against the use of the term “Fourth Of July” when referring to Independence Day.
The name of the holiday is Independence Day. It is America’s birthday. It celebrates America’s independence. It is an important day – for me, it is the most important holiday.
So why do most people call it the “Fourth of July?” That is a date, not a holiday.
Consider: nobody says to you “Merry 25th of December!” And nobody asks if you plan to dress up for “31st of October.” Valentine’s Day – nobody calls it the “14th of February.” And when’s the last time someone asked you if you had plans for the “17th of March?”
I understand that we use nicknames and verbal shortcuts, and phrases and terms sometimes gradually become widespread, but next time you are about to say “fourth of July,” just give it a second thought. Please.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
OK, rant over.
Here’s some video of fireworks around town in 2019 (not the official city show, just random fireworks)
