It 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 forevermore.
— A letter to Abigail after the Independence resolution passed on July 2nd. Of course July 4th, when the Declaration of Independence was approved, became that 'anniversary festival.' [July 3rd, 1776]