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You already know the 4th of July is a fun summer holiday, but it’s not all about hot dogs and fireworks. So what's the reason for the celebration? Basically, it's a birthday party!
That's right, the Fourth of July is the birthday of the United States of America. On July 4, 1776, our country's founders declared independence.
And the reason our country wanted to declare independence? Well, many of the colonists were angry they had to pay taxes to the British government, even though they had no vote in the decisions that affected them. And so Thomas Jefferson wrote that famous letter to King George, which is known as the Declaration of Independence. It was signed by 56 men representing each of the 13 colonies.The first, and largest, signature on the letter is John Hancock’s. Some people say he wrote his name large so that King George would be able to read it without his glasses!
The first public Fourth of July celebration at the White House took place in 1804, and finally, almost 100 years after the Declaration of Independence was signed, Congress declared July 4 to be a national holiday for the United States of America. And that’s why we celebrate!
So next time you're asked to bring a dessert to a picnic, you might just want to consider a birthday cake!

Make sure you don't miss out on all of the great festivities happening around Acadia and St. Landry Parish! Check out our listing of local venues holding events that are fun for the whole family!
We will be updating this guide as we receive confirmation of upcoming events. Click on event links for further details.
Red, Rice, and Blue
The New Crowley Pavilion
The City of Crowley is hosting a BBQ cook-off on Friday, July 4th for an all-day event with fireworks beginning at 9pm.
Eunice Rec
The city of Eunice is hosting its annual Fourth of July Fireworks show at the Eunice Rec Complex so bring your lawn chairs!
Red, White and Boom 4th of July Celebration
Yambilee Ag Arena | Opelousas
This family-friendly event has something for everyone, from great music to delicious food and a fantastic atmosphere. Gates open at 6pm at the Yambilee arena. A fireworks display will begin at 9pm. $5 parking fee. Food & drinks will be available to purchase.
Fireworks on the River
Krotz Springs Nall Park
The town of Krotz Springs will host its annual Fireworks Display in Nall Park with family-fun activities!
4th of July Fireworks Show
Port Barre Veterans Memorial Park
The town of Port Barre will be hosting a 4th of July family-fun event in the park. The splash pad will be open and hamburgers/hotdogs will be sold. Gates open at 6pm and fireworks show will begin at 9pm.
Independence Day Fireworks Show
Leonville Boat Ramp
The town of Leonville will be hosting a Fireworks Display Show on July 4th starting at 6pm. Leonville Fire Department will be selling BBQ hamburgers and drinks.
Rendezvous Downtown
The Depot Square | Rayne
Rendezvous Downtwon presents: Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States at the Depot Square; a family fun-filled day with activities for the kids, live music and flag raising ceremony.
Independence Day Activities
Celebrating America Slime Lab - Crowley Library
Celebrate America's 250th Events and Activities
Independece Day Inspired Concert - Washington, La. Bring your family and friends to enjoy a powerful performance honoring our nation, its history, and those who serve. Sunday, July 5th @2pm at the former Washington Elementary Gym. All are invited to gather at the American Legion Hall immediately following the concert for complimentary jambalaya dinner. Monetary donations welcome.
ECCBC Summer Concert- A SPECTACULAR PROGRAM celebrating the 250th Birthday of the USA! Plan on joining the massive choir and concert band for this once-in-a-lifetime celebration!
Don't miss out on local family-friendly events!
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