Independence Day isn’t just a great movie – it’s the celebration of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence back in the year 1776. In the first few years of its existence, Independence Day was celebrated by 13 gun salutes, parades, official dinners, and fireworks.
Today, not all that much has changed in the way that Americans celebrate the 4th of July. It has been a national holiday since 1870, and at Vargas and Vargas Insurance , our employees will be taking advantage of their day off with picnics and barbecues, red white and blue themed family get-togethers, parades, and (of course) fireworks shows. The week surrounding July 4th is noted as one of the busiest travel periods in the US!
How do you and your family plan to celebrate America’s 237th birthday?
The Massachusetts Firework Law
Some states, including Massachusetts, prohibit the sale and use of fireworks. The Massachusetts Fireworks Law ( MGL Chapter 148, S. 39 ) states: “No person shall sell, or keep or offer for sale, or have in his possession, or under his control, or use, or explode, or cause to explode, any combustible or explosive composition or substance, or any combination of such compositions or substances, or any other article, which was prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration, or detonation.”
The fireworks law also states that possession or use of fireworks will be punishable with confiscation of the fireworks, and a fine of $10-$100. This includes fireworks that were purchased lawfully in states like Connecticut or New Hampshire and brought over Massachusetts state lines illegally.
Firework Displays in the Area
Don’t risk the consequences of backyard fireworks – just the potential of a home insurance claim isn’t worth the trouble. Fireworks set off at home have been known to cause fires in dry, grassy areas, and can also sometimes veer off course and start a blaze in or around nearby homes.
Even with a backyard fireworks show out of the question, there are plenty of professional displays in our area that you can attend. If you want to find a display in your area, check out this list of events courtesy of bostoncentral.com .
Also, don’t forget about the Boston Pops Firework Spectacular ! This year marks the 40th of their July 4th Spectaculars, and the show promises to be fun for the whole family. If you can’t make it to the show live, it will be broadcast locally on WBZ-TV for your viewing pleasure.
Independence Day Activities for Kids
For our readers with children, there are many activities that you can do with them on July 4th. Here are five fun and creative ideas to get you started:
- Read them The Story of America’s Birthday .
- Make a Star Spangled Waver for your local parade.
- Take them to Children’s Day at Boston’s City Hall on July 3rd.
- Let them help you create a 4th of July recipe .
- Create a Care Package for the Troops.
As you can see, there are many great options on how you can celebrate Independence Day this year in the Boston area. Whatever you and your family decide to do, remember to be safe and have fun!
Remember to give us a call at 877.550.0025 for your insurance questions and needs.
