From the editor: What does the Fourth of July mean to you?

For some people, the Fourth of July means a day off from work and a chance to head to the beach. For others, it’s about spending time with family -- often grilling hot dogs and hamburgers and playing games in the backyard. And yet for others the Fourth of July is all about the fireworks.

The national holiday is actually the commemoration of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

The tiny city of Southport has been celebrating Independence Day since 1795. In today’s cover story, Renee Spencer, our community engagement editor and a resident of Southport, takes a look back at how the city’s celebrations turned into the N.C. 4th of July Festival.

Southport on parade:How a tiny coastal city became home to the N.C. 4th of July Festival

It’s now a weeklong celebration that includes events in Southport and Oak Island. It brings tens of thousands of visitors to the area and includes dozens of activities.

While the parade is surely the highlight, I’ve always thought the naturalization ceremony was particularly moving. What better way to celebrate Independence Day than by becoming a citizen of the United States.

In this week's inspiration story, Renee also profiles Wayne Berry, who's been volunteering with the festival for 50 years.

I’m personally a big fan of fireworks. Luckily, my neighbors go all out, and I don’t have to go any farther than my backyard to catch a good show -- on the Fourth of July or just about every other holiday.

However you celebrate, I hope you remember the spirit of the holiday and take time to be thankful for our freedom.

Sherry Jones is the StarNews executive editor. You can reach her at sjones1@gannett.com.