Independence Day, also called Fourth of July, is America’s annual celebration of nationhood. The holiday commemorates the Declaration of Independence, adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. It’s a time to come together as Americans to honor our revolutionary history — and our military — through parades, concerts filled with patriotic music, and awe-inspiring fireworks.
The holiday has also become a tradition for gathering with family, friends and neighbors to enjoy backyard barbecues and summer celebrations.
Regardless of how you plan to spend the day, we urge our readers to take some time to reflect on the many sacrifices our brave men and women — both those in uniform as well as civilians — have made these past 250 years to keep our nation free.
Veterans Memorial Park & Gardens currently under construction at the Great Park
Here in Irvine, we have every reason to be proud that, after nearly a decade of developer schemes and political battles, Mayor Larry Agran has successfully launched the transformation of the Great Park’s 125-acre “ARDA” site — located on the former El Toro Marine Corps Air Station — into a beautiful Veterans Memorial Park & Gardens.
The project is officially moving forward, with construction now underway. Crews have begun work on the first phase: building a perimeter park that will lay the foundation for what’s to come.
Veterans and their families have sacrificed so much for our country! I am grateful that we are now creating a lasting tribute to honor the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.
- Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday! - June 30, 2026
- Publisher’s Perspective: Councilmember Treseder’s Attacks on Local Democracy - June 23, 2026
- Honoring Irvine’s Military History - May 26, 2026
