1918 - President Wilson speaks at an “International Fourth of July Celebration” at Mount Vernon, VA. Back in Washington DC, he is in the audience for a pageant at the Capitol that is entitled “Democracy Triumphant.” Tonight there's much to celebrate and many blessings to be grateful for. So while it's good to talk about serious things, it's just as important and just as American to have some fun. Now, let's have some fun -- let the celebration begin! Note: The President spoke at 9:50 p.m. from the U.S.S. ``John F. Kennedy'' in New York Harbor. Dive into these 15 fun facts about the Fourth of July and discover what makes America’s birthday truly unforgettable. 1. The Declaration of Independence Wasn’t Signed on July 4th Credit: Wikimedia Commons. Most people believe the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4th, 1776, but history tells a different story. President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and Karen Pence and others stand as the US Army Band performs and the US Navy Blue Angels flyover at the end of an Some impromptu celebrations greeted the declaration’s first public readings on July 8, in front of local militia troops in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, but the first organized celebration of Food, Culture, and Modern Celebrations Typical 4th of July food. Contemporary 4th of July celebrations blend historical commemoration with distinctly American cultural traditions centered around food, family, and community gatherings. Americans consume 150 million hot dogs on July 4th. The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate the United States of America and its many freedoms. Many Presidents have spoken about the importance of liberty on this day, and their quotes are sure to inspire. We are sharing 4th of July quotes by presidents that will give you an idea of what they think about the 4th of July. Thomas Jefferson, one of two Presidents to sign the Declaration of Independence, started the White House tradition of celebrating the Fourth of July with the first Independence Day reception In 1801 Thomas Jefferson hosted the first 4th of July celebration at the presidential residence. The event included a picnic, horse races, and parades. In the years since, most presidents have marked the anniversary with speeches of thanksgiving for the preservation of our nation’s freedoms. Today we’ll feature excerpts from three such President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan at a Fourth of July picnic on the South Lawn of the White House in 1981. Also in the picture are Earle Jorgensen, Caroline Deaver and Mike President Tyler ended the evening watching fireworks with his guests from Lafayette Square. During the James K. Polk administration (1845-1849), celebrations were shaped by a sharp rise in patriotic sentiment brought on by the Mexican-American War and westward expansion. During the Presidency of Theodore Roosevelt, Fourth of July celebrations commenced with patriotic speeches on the South Lawn (1903). President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan prepare for the fireworks display above the Washington Monument (1981). The Fourth of July—also known as Independence Day or July 4th—has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations goes back to the The award was conferred during annual events taking place to mark George Washington’s birthday. (The University held such events for more than 120 years after its founding; Father Sorin admired the political career of Washington.) Honorees include Sen. John F. Kennedy, Vice President Richard Nixon and comedian Bob Hope. From the administrations of former President George W. Bush to President Joe Biden, here’s what Independence Day at the White House has looked like over the past twenty years. President Woodrow Wilson gave a speech at Independence Hall in Philadelphia to mark the Fourth of July. President Calvin Coolidge and First Lady Grace Coolidge pose outdoors at a party President Thomas Jefferson held the first Fourth of July event at the White House in 1801, and modern Presidents have continued the tradition. This year's festivities will honor America's armed forces with a first-of-its-kind celebration on the National Mall. Will US president Donald Trump give a 4th of July speech that inspires and unifies the country? Judging from his remarks on July 1 to veterans, it’s hard to imagine. President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush embrace each other as they look onto the Fourth of July crowd (2001). Download full size image Staff and guests of the White House ready themselves for the fireworks display over the Washington Monument (2002). Although not a signatory of the Declaration of Independence, James Monroe, another Founding Father who was elected president, also died on July 4, 1831, making him the third President who died on the anniversary of independence. [17] The only U.S. president to have been born on Independence Day was Calvin Coolidge, who was born on July 4, 1872
Articles and news, personal stories, interviews with experts.
Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | |
![]() | ![]() |