Happy Fourth of July, Columbia. Today, we’re giving you the historical low-down on the nation’s most patriotic day – plus a bonus round-up of all of the events that are guaranteed to shine brighter than a firework. (Do be sure to review and adhere to all safety regulations regarding fireworks in your area).

On this day in 1776, the thirteen colonies already settled in America, (including the Carolinas), said “see ya” to England – which set them up to eventually form the good ole’ U.S. of A.

The Founding Fathers actually made the decision to break free from the Brits on July 2, but it took some time to edit + approve the official Declaration of Independence (likely due in part to the lack of a spell-check tool or backspace button). The final version was then signed (where we get the phrase put your “John Hancock” on it) + shared with the public on July 4. This makes the U.S. 243 years old today.

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For a while (162 years), Independence Day wasn’t officially observed by the federal government. A formal bill recognizing it as a holiday (among others like Christmas) was signed into effect by FDR in 1938.

For all of us far-removed from the colonial era, today is a day to celebrate the dog days of summer. And luckily, there are plenty of ways to do that – here are the top Fourth of July events taking place around Columbia:

2019 Peach Festival | 8 a.m.-11 p.m. | Gilbert Community Park, 110 Rikard Circle, Gilbert | Free | Family-friendly festival sponsored by Lexington Medical Center, ft. live music, arts + crafts, a parade at 9:30 a.m. + fireworks at 10 p.m.

Military Appreciation Day | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. | EdVenture | Free admission to military families with up to four guests | Must present military ID for entry.

Independence Day at Tin Roof | 9 p.m.-2 a.m. | Tin Roof | Free

Freedom Flow | 10:30-11:45 a.m. | Amsa Yoga Studio, 140 Pelham Dr. | $12

July 4th Race Workout | 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | That's Right Fitness, 616 Greenwood Rd., West Columbia | $15 for non-members | Obstacle course race style workout with a slip n’ slide and refreshments to cool down afterwards.