On July 4, 1776 Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence as a way of officially declaring America as a free country. Since then, America has celebrated the holiday in a variety of ways. The first Independence Day celebration consisted of Philadelphia lighting up the night sky with bonfires and candles, as well as ringing church bells and firing cannons. Though many celebrations around the country have a lot of bravado, Vermont still celebrates Independence Day with traditional patriotic style. 
One of Vermont’s greatest Independence Day celebrations happens at President Calvin Coolidge’s homestead. Calvin Coolidge was born on July 4, 1872 in Plymouth Notch, Vermont. He became the Nation’s 30th president in 1923. He was the only American President born on the fourth of July and his home has become a place of great celebration on the shared birthday of the Nation and one of its leaders. Every year the White House sends a wreath to the homestead. It is presented at the grave of President Coolidge by the Vermont National Guards. The Declaration of Independence is read, speeches are made, tours are given, music and dancing are to be had, a wonderful barbeque takes place, and the day is concluded by a fireworks display.
The annual Warren July 4th celebration is another huge event. The parade begins with a blast from Clive’s cannon. The second the last fire truck clears the way Main Street is opened for a street dance. If spectators don't feel like dancing here they can always head up to Brooks Field at the elementary school where food and beer are served, games and activities take place, and more music is played. This celebration ends at Sugarbush’s Lincoln Park for fireworks.
If you are looking for a great fireworks display Burlington’s Waterfront is the place to be. The annual fireworks display that takes place over the water will rival any in the state.
Of course, these are not the only celebrations in Vermont. Every town has their own small celebrations that include barbeques, parades, music, dancing, and a traditional fireworks display. No matter which town you choose to celebrate Independence Day in, it is guaranteed to be patriotic, full of fun and end with a bang.
By Tabitha Fitzgerald
Celebrate the birth of our nation with spectacular fireworks displays and festivals, happening all around Vermont! Here are just a few of the places where you can celebrate the 4th of July in VT.
Brandon Independence Day Celebration
When? Saturday July 5, 2008 from 9 am - Fireworks at dusk, parade at 1pm
Where? Brandon, VT
4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza
When? July 4th, 2008 at 9:45 pm
Where? Rutland, VT
Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks
When? July 4th, 2008
Where? Jeffersonville and Smugglers' Notch, VT
Independence Day Celebration & Stowe Fire Dept. Centennial
When? July 4th, Stowe celebrates in the Stowe events Field at 5:30pm
Where? Stowe, VT
Fireworks & Concert at Ascutney Mountain
When? TBA
Where? Various locations, Brownsville, VT
Burlington Independence Day Celebration
When? July 3rd, 2008
Where? Waterfront Park, Burlington, VT
Warren July 4th Parade and Festival
When? July 4th, 2008
Where? Warren, VT
Killington Independence Day Festivities
When? July 4th, 2008, 10am parade, fireworks are 9:30pm
Where? Killington, VT
Old Vermont 4th at Billings Farm & Museum
When? July 4th, 2008
Where? Woodstock, VT
Annual Wardsboro July 4th Parade & Street Fair
Vermont's oldest continuous parade.
When? July 4th, 2008, 9-3 pm, parade beings at 10am
Where? Route 100 Wardsboro, VT
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