"The day will be the most memorable in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival… It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade… bonfires and illuminations from one end of the continent to the other. "

This prophetic statement is in a letter John Adams wrote on July 3, 1776 just after the Continental Congress proclaimed the American colonies independent of England, and before the final approval of the amended Declaration on the fourth. Illuminations is an old term for fireworks.

The Peninsula Celebration Association (PCA) dedicates its resources toward carrying out the promise made by John Adams as stated above. The Symetra Family Fourth in Redwood City, CA is a wonderful celebration of the United States independence from England.

It includes three main events.

The event is primarily funded by an endowment left by the founders – Ole Oleson, Walt Maloney, and Charles Holt. Additional money is donated by sponsors located throughout the United States.