Fireworks, Hot Dogs and the Fourth of July

On the birthday of the United States of America, all the usual traditions make a grand appearance: fireworks, pool party BBQs, classic rock music, days at the lake, patriotic parades, and lots… lots of red, white and blue.

So as we get ready to joyously remember that 1776 “moment” in style once again, we wanted to highlight some fun trivia about this spirited celebration!

1. The American Pyrotechnics Association tells us that each year, over $1 billion is spent on fireworks. And from that, only 10% are used to set off professional displays – which is probably why there are about 13,000 firework-related injuries around this holiday. Fireworks, interestingly, have been a part of this holiday since July 4, 1777.



2. The vote for Independence was actually on July 2, 1776. But the Declaration was published in newspapers on July 4th.

 

3. 150 million hot dogs will be enjoyed during the 4th of July holiday. According to the National Sausage and Hot Dog Council, about 7 billion hot dogs are expected to be eaten between Memorial Day and Labour Day. Who doesn’t love a hotdog at a summer BBQ? It seems it’s America’s most popular food!



4. Wearing the flag is in violation of the U.S. Flag Code! That’s right – t-shirts, shorts, bandanas, hats, towels… basically everything everyone seems to be wearing or using during the holiday is in violation. But this is not ever enforced, so party on with Old Glory. Speaking of the flag – did you know the current design, which includes Hawaii and Alaska, was designed in 1958 by a 16-year-old from Lancaster, Ohio who received a B- on it from his teacher, before sending it off to Dwight D. Eisenhower in D.C.? His grade was later changed to an A!



5. Only two men signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 and two signees died on its 50th anniversary. Charles Thompson and John Hancock were the only two signatures on the Declaration on the Fourth of July. The other 54 signed in the months after. Thomas Jefferson and John Adams both passed away on the country’s golden anniversary in 1826.