For most people these days, the Fourth of July is a chance to celebrate with loved ones. And therefore, "fireworks" often refers to the charged drama that unfolds during emotional family get-togethers. The literal meaning of fireworks is, of course, the tradition of lighting up the night sky with noisy colorful firecrackers on America's Independence Day. The first fireworks show marking this national holiday happened in 1777, one year after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and has remained popular ever since. (Barbecuing is a newer tradition.) In many cities consumer fireworks are illegal, so be careful with bottle rockets and ground spinners. Your best bet is to pack lawn chairs, a blanket, a cooler with drinks and sandwiches, and watch the professional community show after sunset. Some towns spend upwards of $200,000 on an hour-long set. Some skip the process of arriving hours ahead to score a good seat and stay home, watching the exploding rainbow from their balconies or roofs. Who knew Chinese gunpowder would figure so prominently in American history? -- Yon Motskin