The events in downtown Lawrence on the Fourth of July are exactly what this holiday should be about.

Thousands of people of all ages came together to watch bicycle races in downtown, eat food prepared by locally owned restaurants, listen to some local bands and watch a fireworks display to honor our nation’s birthday.

OK, so there were a couple of trees at the north end of Watson Park that a lot of people would have liked to move for the duration of the fireworks, but it was a minor flaw in a near-perfect celebration. Maybe the Jaycees can find some higher ground from which to fire the pyrotechnics next year.

The community owes a big “thank you” to the Jaycees and especially to the Lawrence Originals, the local restaurant group that provided the impetus — and some of the money — to move the local July 4 celebration back downtown. The booths set up around Watson Park were a great opportunity to sample some local food and drink.

Even the weather cooperated with the event, with only a light mist at the end of an incredibly cool, pleasant evening for a Kansas 4th.

This was a true community event. Families came with children in strollers and dogs on leashes. People of all ages brought their blankets and lawn chairs to share in the fun. We hope the restaurants involved in the event made a little money, but it was also possible for people to enjoy the music, the fireworks and the company at no charge.

It was a great idea that deserves an encore. Thanks to everyone involved.