The United States declared independence from England and its monarch on July 4, 1776. We commemorate this occasion with annual fireworks displays and other festivities. The Library is closed in recognition of this federal holiday, but we offer several ways to help you celebrate our nation’s Independence. On this page, explore information and fun resources, including music playlists, booklists, Take and Make kits, and web resources. Visit any Library location beginning Sat., July 1 to pick up a pocket Constitution of the United States booklet and United States flag. We will also be at the Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce Independence Day Street Fair in Monument on Tue., July 4. Come see us, and cheer on your Library during the 4th of July parade!
Programs
Author Becky Van Vleet – Patriotism in America Past and Present
Will America ever have another “Greatest Generation?” Local author Becky Van Vleet explores that question in her new book Unintended Hero, a book about her father's up close and personal battles on the USS Denver in World War II in the Pacific Theater. She defines patriotism as “Our love for America where we can put aside our differences when we’re called upon to support our country. It’s a spirit of sacrifice and doing whatever it takes. That's what my father did." Join Becky for an interactive book talk about patriotism from the Greatest Generation from World War II to today. This event is being hosted by the Manitou Springs Heritage Center. Pre-registration is required via the Heritage Center’s website. Copies of Unintended Hero will be available for purchase and signing after the program. Learn more in our event calendar.
- Fri., July 7 from 6 – 7 p.m. – Manitou Springs Heritage Center
Take and Make: 4th of July Luminaries
Starting Fri., June 23, pick up a red, white, and blue ribbon, tea light candle, and some twine with instructions on how to make a 4th of July luminary. For ages 18 & up. While supplies last.
Kids Take and Make: Independence Day Firework Crowns
Starting Sat., July 1, pick up supplies to make a fun crown decorated with pipe cleaner fireworks. For ages 5 - 12. While supplies last.
Pocket Constitution Book & United States Flag
Starting Sat., July 1, celebrate Independence Day by stopping by your local Library and receive a pocket Constitution book & United States flag! While supplies last.
Booklists
- Adult Nonfiction Booklist
- Overdrive & Libby
Websites
- KKTV: 4th of July Happenings in the Pikes Peak Region
Find out where you can go to see fireworks and enjoy music from the Colorado Springs Philharmonic this year with this list from KKTV. - Library of Congress: Today in History – July 4th
Explore Independence Day history and enjoy historic photos and documents in this article from the Library of Congress. - Old Farmer's Almanac: Fourth of July 2023
Celebrate the 4th of July with history, traditions, and recipes in the Old Farmer’s Almanac. You can also look ahead to see what day of the week our next 4th of July falls on. - Smithsonian Institute: Independence Day
Take an in-depth look at artifacts from the past as you celebrate the birthday of the United States with this historic gallery from the Smithsonian Institute. - History Channel: Fourth of July
Watch Videos from the History Channel packed full of 4th of July facts you might not have known, including the first use of fireworks in 4th of July celebrations. - PBS: A Capitol Fourth
From bonfires and illuminations to picnics and public readings of the Declaration of Independence, learn about historic 4th of July celebrations in this PBS article.
Resources
Freegal Playlists
Use your library card to access 24/7 music to add pizzaz to your 4th of July celebrations.
History Subject Guide
Explore history resources at the Library in this Subject Guide, including resources where you can learn more about why our nation celebrates Independence Day.
Kanopy
Use your library card on Kanopy to access documentaries and historic dramatizations that delve into the founding of our nation, the Revolutionary War, the writing of the Constitution, and other key moments in U.S. history.
- American Military History
- American Revolution: The Impossible War
- America’s Musical Heritage: Episode 2, “American Revolutionary and Wartime Music”
- Are We to be a Nation
- Black Patriots: Heroes of the Revolution
- The History of the United States: Episode 14, “Creating the Constitution”
- Liberty in the Air
- The Men Who Built America: Frontiersmen
Gale eBooks: American Revolution Reference Library
In this eBook you will find a timeline of events during the American Revolution, as well as information about historic figures and the roles they played in key revolutionary events.
Gale in Context: U.S. History
Read about the 4th of July, from historic battles and the signing of the Declaration of Independence to celebrations commemorating Independence Day.