People all over the United States of America celebrate our country’s “birthday” each year on the Fourth of July. This national holiday is called Independence Day because it commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 4, 1776.
The first Fourth of July commemoration was held in 1777 while America’s Revolutionary War was still being fought. By the early 1800’s, the celebration of America’s birthday with parades, picnics, patriotic speeches, band concerts, and fireworks had become established traditions. My favorite part of July 4 celebrations are the fireworks shows!
Below are some virtual fireworks that you can enjoy on your computer:
Fireworks Just For You – Click repeatedly in random areas on the screen to create a nice display of fireworks complete with sound effects. Fun for kids! (Requires Java)
Disney Fireworks – A nice one for kids! Create a magical fireworks display at Cinderella’s Castle. Choose your own fireworks, music, and colors. (Requires Adobe Flash Player)
Lady Liberty Fireworks – Create your own fireworks over the New York City skyline and the Statue of Liberty. (Needs a Java2 Plugin)
CyberFireworks – Watch virtual fireworks exploding online. (Needs QuickTime Plugin)
Below are some educational pages about fireworks:
Nova Online has a Fireworks Gallery where you can see all the different styles of fireworks.
The complete companion website to Nova’s “Fireworks!” contains additional resources and a teacher’s guide.
Click here to explore Idaho Public Television’s page of fun fireworks facts for kids, and then click here to watch Idaho Public Television’s “Dialogue for Kids” on how fireworks are made (about 28 minutes long; runs in Windows Media Player).
Chemistry of Fireworks – Learn how fireworks get their colors. Fascinating science unit!
Careers 101 – Pyrotechnician – A pyrotechnician is an individual responsible for the safe storage, handling, and functioning of pyrotechnics (fireworks).
Glossary of Pyrotechnics – Fireworks terminology, a long list with definitions.