When you think of the 4th of July, you might think about fireworks, parades and picnics, all of which have become traditions. But do you know what those traditions celebrate? The 4th of July is also called Independence Day, and it has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941. But people have been celebrating since 1776, when the U.S. Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4. That declaration, written by one of our presidents, Thomas Jefferson, declared America’s independence from England. Now that’s something to celebrate!
The Palio di Siena is the Italian equivalent to the Kentucky Derby horse race. Known in Italy as Il Palio, the race is held two times each year – once on July 2 and again on Aug. 16 in Siena, Italy. During the race, 10 horses, representing the districts in the city, are ridden around the Piazza del Campo three times. The race usually only lasts abut 90 seconds. What makes the race even more interesting is that the horses are not saddled. The riders are riding bareback. The lack of saddle results in many of the riders being thrown from their horses during the short race. Ouch!
Boston is a city that celebrates its place in America’s history. Every year during the 4th of July, The festival celebrates the colonial and maritime (or sailing ) history of the city. The festival features Revolutionary war reenactments, concerts, historical tours and you can even see the tall ships with their massive sails come into the harbor. The festival, which runs July 2-6 this year has fun events every day and ends with one of the biggest fireworks shows you will ever see!!!
