5 Things You Need to Know Today, 7/4

1) Independence Day will be dicey as far as weather, with partly sunny skies possibly giving way to showers and thunderstorms. Temperatures in the mid to high 70s. The greatest chance of rain begins around 11 a.m., and continues through the afternoon. The skies may clear around eight, giving the fireworks at least a fighting chance of going ahead as scheduled.

2) If the weather allows, Falmouth has a full slate of Fourth of July activities, including two parades, and of course the fireworks. Check out our full schedule.

3) All government offices, including Town Hall, post offices, and libraries, are closed for the holiday.

4) Children can get a sense of life in the colonial period with , at the . The interactive exhibit is free, and ideal for kids from toddlers to fifth grade. The Historical Society and the Museums on the Green are also holding a special Open House today, between noon and 3 p.m.

5) This day in history: the United States of America declares its independence from Britain (1776); 50 years later to the day, founding fathers Thomas Jefferson and John Adams pass away (1826); and terminally ill Yankee legend Lou Gehrig makes his famous farewell speech, declaring himself “the luckiest man on the face of the earth” (1939).