If Montgomery County — by virtue of its historical significance in the quest for independence — can’t throw a slam-bang July 4 celebration, who can? The following information from the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board makes it clear that patriotic parties will pop from one end of the county to the other.

History

The document signed in Philadelphia in July 1776 gained its gravitas in the sacrifice on the rolling hills of Valley Forge in Dec. 1777. As such, this historically hallowed ground resonates deeply with tributes and solemnity for Independence Day.

The sights, sounds, and stories of the encampment will come alive at Valley Forge National Historical Park Valley Forge National Historical Park during this year’s all-day remembrance. Visitors can discover for themselves how men, women, and children from many different walks of life struggled to ultimately overcome incredible hardships and march away from Valley Forge a stronger, more unified fighting force.

Parade

Skippack Village, always a worthy destination, will clear Route 73 of vehicular traffic to make way for floats, marchers, musicians, performers, dignitaries, and civic groups. Against the backdrop of its retailers, this tradition is always a visual treat.

Party

Brothers Kershner Brewing Co., Skippack, is throwing a bash that dovetails nicely with the end of the parade. Live music begins at noon.

Carnivals

Upper Merion Parks & Rec is holding a day-long July 4 carnival. From 1–10 p.m., Heuser Park in King of Prussia will be crackling with rides, food trucks (Carmona Mobile Foods, Gourmet Jerk Shack, Hedgehog Grill, Impresso Coffee, Kono Pizza, Petrucci’s, and 2 Street Sammies), and a live concert (Triple Rail Turn, a country-rock band).

Narberth’s daytime celebration also has a carnival-like atmosphere, part of its 75-year tradition of marking America’s independence. The roster of events, starting at 10 a.m., includes a baby parade, diaper derby, free-throw competition, and a nostalgic (but guaranteed messy) pie-eating contest.

Fireworks

No better way to cap off a patriotic party than with pyrotechnics. Shows, starting at dark (est. 9:15 p.m., best to be onsite for a good spot beforehand), are as follows:

• Sutcliffe Park, Conshohocken, July 3 (note date)
• Heuser Park, King of Prussia
• Narberth Park, Narberth
• Palmer Park, Skippack

More information on these events is online.