On July 2, 1776, during the American Revolution, the Second Continental Congress approved a resolution that legally separated the thirteen American colonies from the British Empire. Two days later, on the fourth of July, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, which stated that the thirteen colonies were a new nation, the United States of America. Just days before the declaration, John Adams wrote to his wife Abigail:
I am apt to believe that (July 2) will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.
While Adams was a couple of days off regarding the day that U.S. citizens would celebrate the anniversary of the country’s independence, he was spot-on about how it would be celebrated. Even 240 years later, Americans gather on this historic day to commemorate their country’s virtues. As you plan a special getaway for the long Independence Day weekend, fly your private jet to a city that exudes star-spangled “pomp” and makes you proud to be an American.
4th of July Destinations to Fly to in a Charter Jet
Flagstaff, Arizona
With access to the Grand Canyon, the spirit of the Western frontier and towering ponderosa pines, Flagstaff has one of the top-rated Independence Day celebrations. It has one of the best town squares in the country and highly anticipated events, including a downtown parade, fun run, a Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra concert and the annual Art in the Park, a juried fine crafts and art show in Wheeler Park. And, yes, there is a great fireworks show.
Lahaina, Hawaii
Celebrate Independence Day in the 50th state to join the union. A small village on Maui’s west side, Lahaina was once a royal retreat. Today, it is one of Travel + Leisure’s top-rated fourth of July destinations. Here, you won’t find masses of organized events. Instead, residents enjoy laid back barbecue potlucks on the beach with comfort foods—like fried Mochiko chicken, Kalua pork and kalbi ribs—before enjoying a 12-minute fireworks show (it is the only fireworks display on Maui). Have your own fun by renting an oceanfront cottage at the Royal Lahaina Resort and enjoying a spellbinding Independence Day luau.
Washington, D.C.
One of the most patriotic places to celebrate Independent Day is in the nation’s capital. Stop in at the National Archives to get a first-hand look at the Declaration of Independence. Make your way to Constitution Avenue, between 7th and 17th Streets, for the glorious National Independence Day Parade at 11:45 a.m. In the evening, catch some tunes on the U.S. Capitol’s West Lawn, which will feature star-studded lineup before the National Symphony Orchestra plays during the fireworks grand finale (or catch the dress rehearsal with a smaller crowd the night before at 8:00 p.m.). To get away from the crowds, reserve a waterfront table at a Georgetown restaurant on the Washington Harbor, like Tony and Joe’s Seafood or Fiola Mare for great food and an even better view of the fireworks.