Fourth of July fireworks celebrations of years past (PHOTOS)

On July 3, 1776, John Adams said that America's independence "ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shews, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other from this time forward forever more."

And so it was. Every year, Americans get out their blankets, lawn chairs, barbeques and patriotic apparel to watch a fireworks display, or an "illuminations" display according to Adams, that promises to be bigger and better than the one before it. 

Here is a look at seven American cities that do Independence Day with a bang.