This archive report was first published on 3 July 2020.
Get ready to celebrate Independence Day with a mix of music, movies, and delicious food. On July 3, a live recording of the acclaimed Broadway musical 'Hamilton' will arrive on Disney Plus, featuring the talents of writer and star Lin-Manuel Miranda, and director Thomas Kail.
For those looking for a historical take on the American Revolution, the 1972 movie '1776' is a great option. This film follows the debates at the Second Continental Congress that led to the drafting and signing of the Declaration of Independence. You can stream it for free on Pluto TV or rent/buy it on various platforms, including Amazon, Google Play, iTunes, Vudu, and YouTube.
Another classic film to watch this Independence Day is 'Drums Along the Mohawk,' a 1939 adventure based on the novel of the same name. This movie follows a young settler couple (played by Henry Fonda and Claudette Colbert) on the frontier in central New York during the American Revolution. You can rent or buy it on various platforms, including Amazon, Google Play, iTunes, Vudu, and YouTube.
Revisit the Declaration of Independence ¶
This year, the National Archives in Washington is hosting a reading ceremony of the Declaration on its website and Facebook page. The event starts at 4 p.m. Eastern and is hosted by the broadcast journalist Soledad O'Brien. You can also tune in to NPR's 'Morning Edition' on July 3 at 6:10 a.m. Eastern, where reporters, hosts, newscasters, and commentators will perform their own reading of the Declaration.
Celebrate in the Kitchen ¶
If you've found your inner chef during this time at home, consider trying a New York Times Fourth of July recipe, such as gochujang barbecue ribs with peanuts and scallions or lemon potato salad with mint. You can also get creative with your kids and make some classic patriotic treats using red, white, and blue ingredients.
