The Continental Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, but the vote itself actually took place two days earlier, according to the History Channel. The Fourth of July, officially known as Independence Day, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. It’s a day marked by fireworks, parades, barbecues, and flags—but behind the red, white, and blue is a story filled with politics, philosophy, and yes, even a bit of scheduling drama. July 4, 1776 Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence in the morning of a bright, sunny, but cool Philadelphia day. John Dunlap prints the Declaration of Independence. July 4 marks the anniversary of when Congress, comprised of delegates from the United States' original 13 colonies, signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. GHENT, WV (WVNS) — Every year, Americans come together to celebrate the day that the Declaration of Independence was ratified, July 4, 1776. This long-standing holiday is commemorated through barbecues, picnics, displaying American flags and patriotic symbols, and of course, dazzling firework displays. While it’s only been a paid federal holiday since 1938, the Fourth of July has been celebrated by Americans stretching back to that first momentous day in 1776—and yes, fireworks were involved. Today, the Fourth of July conjures up visions of parades, cookouts, waving flags, and brilliantly colored fireworks. Oh, the fireworks. When: July 4, 1776 – when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration; Why July 4: Though independence was voted on July 2, the Declaration bears the July 4 date; Federal holiday since: 1870 (paid holiday since 1941) Top traditions: Fireworks, parades, barbecues, and patriotic displays Shawnee is the place to be for big Independence Day fireworks displays, with three local casinos promising dazzling shows: 9:30 p.m. July 2 at Kickapoo Casino, 38900 W. MacArthur St.; 10 p.m. July On July 4, 1776, the United States declared its independence from Great Britain. The following year was when the first official Independence Day celebrations took place in Philadelphia, which included fireworks illuminating the sky. Celebrate July 4th with fireworks, parades, and patriotic displays. Discover the history and traditions that make Independence Day special in the United States. It reads, “Original Declaration of Independence dated 4th July 1776.” Facts about Independence Day . Americans celebrate Independence Day every July 4. The holiday has become synonymous with summer fun, as fireworks displays and backyard barbecues are part of many July 4 celebrations. Here are some facts related to Independence Day: On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental The tradition of setting off fireworks on the 4 of July began in Philadelphia on July 4, 1777, during the first organized celebration of Independence Day. Millions of Americans will celebrate July 4 with family gatherings, barbeques, parades and fireworks. But did you know our country’s vote for independence occurred on July 2, 1776? The significance of July 4, 1776, extends beyond the signing of the declaration, as it represents the nation's commitment to liberty, democracy and the pursuit of happiness. Show full article On July 4, 1776, the streets of Philadelphia were relatively quiet. There were no fireworks, no parades, no music—only a printed document announcing a bold decision. Fast forward to July 4, 2025, and the same date is now the centerpiece of a national celebration. As Americans across the country prepare to celebrate Independence Day this Friday, July 4th, the holiday’s deep historical roots extend far beyond backyard barbecues and fireworks displays. It marks the momentous occasion in 1776 when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of 4. The Liberty Bell didn’t ring on July 4th, 1776. The famous story of the Liberty Bell ringing to announce independence is a myth—the bell was actually cracked and couldn’t ring at that TAMPA, Fla. — The 4th of July, or Independence Day, is this Friday, commemorating the Declaration of Independence from Great Britain in 1776 and establishing the United States of America. It is Most American towns and cities held a Bicentennial celebration on July 4, 1976, with citizen naturalization ceremonies, air shows, and extensive fireworks. One of the most unique Bicentennial events took place in New York City at the South Street Seaport. Fireworks have a long and colorful history, but the story of how they became ubiquitous on July 4 dates to the summer of 1776, during the first months of the Revolutionary War.
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