7-4 Journal – Independence Day!
　Happy American Independence Day, everyone! Did you know today is the American Independence Day? America declared its independence from Great Britain (now called the United Kingdom) on July 4th, 1776. Since then, every year it is celebrated as a national holiday. Many adults do not have to work and there are usually parades and parties. Can you think of any Japanese national holidays like this? (Students don’t have to go to school because they are already on summer vacation. It started in May!)
　On July 4th in America people usually get together with friends and have BBQs and shoot fireworks. Some cities do not allow people to shoot fireworks at their houses because there is a fire danger. In most cities there are professional fireworks shows that everyone can go see at night with their friends and families. It is very fun and exciting to see! Are there any big fireworks shows here in Osaka? I know about one that I will go see with my friends this summer . . . :)

Questions:
1. Does Japan have an Independence Day?
2. Independence Day is usually the biggest summer event in America. What do you think is the biggest summer event in Japan?
3. What Japanese events use fireworks?
4. What are your favorite kinds of fireworks?