Longview, Texas Aiming to Be the Best Fireworks Show in Texas

The first Fourth of July celebration was celebrated on July, 4, 1777 in Philadelphia, this was one of the most elaborate, organized celebrations of its time. This celebration developed the foundation of how future festivities would be celebrated, it was the foundation of how we celebrate the Fourth of July now.

The festivities kicked off with the discharge of a cannon, one shot for each one of the thirteen states in the union. There was the drinking of toasts, a toast was performed for each of the states in the union, as well. The use of the nation's colors were used by "dressing up" the ships in the harbor. The activities also included a parade, dinner, music, fireworks and the ringing of bells.

Today, a cannon may or may not be fired, but most activities still include the use of the nation's colors, parades, food, music and most of all, fireworks.

Longview, Texas, home of the Great Texas Balloon Race, is sponsoring an event this year that is sure to rock the state of Texas. Aiming to have the largest display in Texas, Longview has budgeted forty thousand dollars for this years Fourth of July celebration. "Pyrotechnico" is the company that will be putting on the show which will consist of more than 45-hundred fireworks shells. The celebration will be held at the Longview Fairgrounds on July 3rd. The time has not been set, yet.

Before attending the activities at the fairgrounds, do some celebrating on your own. First of all, you can start by printing off a flag from the computer, if you don't already have one. If your traveling, this symbol of patriotism can be used on antennas or in a window, be sure it doesn't block the driver's view. Next, break out the grill and cook some hamburgers and hot dogs. This could be a great time for a tail gate party if your waiting for the fireworks display.

If you plan on having fireworks at home instead of, or in addition to, the local fireworks display, be sure the fireworks you are using are legal in the state your in, be sure to observe the local laws and, most importantly, exercise caution when setting off the fireworks. Make sure your home display has something for everyone such as sparklers for the kids, firecrackers for the teenagers and elaborate displays for the adults. Most of all, have fun and don't forget the reason for the celebration.