Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday in the United States which commemorates the ratification of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America. The Fourth of July, celebrated on July 4, honors the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress in 1776. This important document marked the official separation of the 13 colonies from Great Britain, leading to the creation of the United States. Historical facts enrich these celebrations. The first-ever fireworks display took place in Philadelphia in 1777, marking Learn why Americans celebrate Independence Day on July 4, including the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the holiday's historical and modern traditions. The 4th of July is a public holiday in the United States of America that commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The 4th of July lands on a Friday this year, which means another long three-day weekend for some. Here's when and what to know about upcoming paid federal holidays in 2025 and 2026. Since the Fourth of July is a federal holiday, all nonessential federal government offices are closed (and the same generally applies to state government offices, including DMV locations). The Fourth of July – a day of fireworks, parades, and patriotism in the United States – is right around the corner. The holiday, also known as Independence Day, falls on a Friday this year What is the 4th of July? More than just a day off in the U.S., it's a day of celebration. Use this guide to brush up on July 4th history. Independence Day, or Fourth of July, Anniversary of the adoption of the U.S. Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress (July 4, 1776). It is the greatest secular holiday in the country. Celebrating the day became common only after the War of 1812. Thereafter, civic-minded groups worked to link the ideals of democracy and citizenship to the patriotic spirit of the day. The Story of the Fourth of July The Declaration of Independence We celebrate American Independence Day on the Fourth of July every year. We think of July 4, 1776, as a day that represents the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the United States of America as an independent nation. But July 4, 1776 wasn't the day that the Continental Congress decided to declare independence (they did Here's what you need to know about whether grocery stores will be open or closed on the Fourth of July this year. Happy 4th of July! Here's the history of the how the holiday began. What's the best way to celebrate the Independence Day of the United States on the 4th of July? Learn about the history and traditions behind the Fourth of July. The 4 th of July, also known as Independence Day, is a federal holiday that celebrates America’s independence from the British Empire. Over the past nearly 250 years, it has morphed into a more general display of patriotism and pride. Independence Day - 4th of July Fireworks, flags, parades – on July 4th, the United States celebrates its birthday. Learn everything you need to know about America's Independence Day, from the origins to beloved traditions and 2024 highlights. Here's which retailers will be open for normal/limited hours or closed on the Fourth of July. Americans celebrate July 4th, also known as Independence Day, to commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on the same date in 1776. This historic document declared the The holiday celebrates the Second Continental Congress’ unanimous adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, a document announcing the colonies’ separation from Great Independence Day in the United States is a holiday celebrated annually on July 4. It is often called the Fourth of July. It commemorates the passage of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. This event announced the separation of the 13 North American British colonies from Great Britain. Each year on July 4, the United States celebrates Independence Day. This federal holiday commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain.
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