Summer months really fly by! We are now approaching the start of July, which brings us to Independence Day celebrations. July 4^th has been celebrated as a federal holiday since 1941, but has been recognized as our Independence Day since 1776, when the Declaration of Independence was signed. If you are interested in brushing up on some history of this holiday, take a look at this page!

For United States citizens, 4^th of July is a fun day to come together and celebrate our country. Here at Rey Homes we have some fun ways to celebrate 4^th of July with your family and friends.

1. Celebrate with Food- whether you like to grill in the back yard, roast a pig, or bake casseroles, celebrating with food is a definite way to please any party guests you?ll be hosting. Food-eating contests have become a common tradition around the country (watch previous contests here). Whether it?s hotdogs or watermelon, add a contest of your own to your list of things to do to celebrate this day!

2. Spend Time Outside- this tradition has grown typically because of the warm weather during this summer month. But all over the country, people spend July 4^th outside. Many towns and cities host a 4^th of July parade to encourage the community to come together and celebrate as a whole. From pool parties to backyard barbecues, there are many options for ways to enjoy the outdoors and celebrate Independence Day!

3. Sport the Colors- 4^th of July is red, white & blue month! From decorations to clothing to icing on a desert, it?s difficult to look patriotic if you aren?t sporting red, white, and blue. Take some time to plan in advance, especially if you are leaving town, to wear your most patriotic clothing on this day! Your fellow Americans will join you and you?ll feel that much more united with those around you!

4. Fireworks! ? There are many people around the country who prefer to light up their own evening and impress their family and friends with their abilities to set off mesmerizing fireworks. If this describes you then by all means, go for it! If you would like a safer alternative that will keep you a nice (far) distance from the fireworks, check out this list of fireworks shows and events that will be taking place in Central Florida. Fireworks are always a fun way to end the day and typically leave everyone in awe and ready for a good night of rest!

No matter how you choose to celebrate 4^th of July this year, take some time to remember why we celebrate this day as Americans and recognize how it unites us as a nation!