 Adams makes this prediction on how we're going to celebrate the birth of our independence in a letter that he wrote to Abigail, his wife. Rebecca Grau, author and D.C. tour guide. So you write about his hope for these grand celebrations. So does John Adams' prediction from July 3rd, 1776 sound familiar? Parade with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and... Grand illumination. That's right. Fireworks.