Gates open at 4 p.m. to an event that features inflatables, music, food and, of course, fireworks.

By Mary O’KEEFE

In the 1700s, Great Britain was one of the most powerful countries in the world. The power of the British Empire stretched across the globe as it colonized countries to increase trade, profits and tax revenue. In America the 13 established colonies were under Britain’s rule, as were several territories.

Great Britain defeated the French in 1763 after the Seven Years’ War but it was in debt. King George III continued to push the new Americans to pay more taxes, and took away more and more rights. In response, colonists began to protest. More British troops were sent to the colonies to control the protests. Then in 1775 select members of the civilian colonial militias, known as minutemen, confronted the British troops during the Battle of Concord where “the shot heard round the world” was fired and the Revolutionary War began.

The Revolutionary War lasted about eight years and saw tragic loss for both the British and colonists but it forever established the legendary spirit of America, where underdogs win, freedom is never to be taken for granted and patriotism is celebrated.

The first recorded fireworks celebration was in 1777 in Philadelphia, just one year after the Declaration of Independence was signed. According to the Smithsonian website, the Virginia Gazette wrote at the time, “One of the most elaborate celebrations in 1777 and the first organized celebration of its kind occurred in Philadelphia. This event had all of the elements of typical future celebrations – the discharge of cannon, one round for each state in the union, the ringing of bells, a dinner, the use of music, the drinking of toasts [it would subsequently be traditional to have one toast for each state in the union], ‘loud huzzas,’ a parade, fireworks and the use of the nation’s colors, in this case the dressing up of ‘armed ships and gallies’ in the harbor.”

This did indeed set the stage for future 4th of July celebrations that occur across the country, from big cities to small towns. Crescenta Valley has a celebration on July 4 that has its own unique traditions.

The CV Fireworks display will once again be held at Crescenta Valley High School’s track and field. Entrance is in the 4400 block of Ramsdell Avenue. The event is sustained in part by donations from the community (donation envelopes in this week’s issue of the CV Weekly), and each year is one of the most highly anticipated events in the Crescenta Valley.

The gates open at 4 p.m. and there is a lot to do before the fireworks fill the sky. There will be about 10 inflatable activities and this year the CV Fireworks Association has included professional carnival-type games for kids. Tickets for those rides are separate from entry fees. There will be live music throughout the day beginning at 6 p.m. with local band Title Wave.

“This year there will be eight food trucks,” added Steve Pierce, member of the CVFA.

There are some restrictions for the event that include: no alcohol or smoking within the CV Fireworks permit area and no soft drinks or food permitted on the field or track area – an eating area will be set up just outside the track and field. Backpacks, purses and other carry-ons will be checked at the entrance to the event.

Tickets are $9 if purchased in advance, $10 on the 4th of July. Kids 7 and under are free.

Tickets can be purchased at the offices of CV Weekly, J’s Maintenance, Bob Smith Toyota, the CV Chamber of Commerce, Bob Smith Toyota and at the Montrose Sunday Harvest Market at the information booth.

For more information, including additional ways to donate to the CVFA to ensure the continued annual event, visit cvfireworks.com.

  Mary Okeefe