Fourth of July - Origins, Celebrations, and Traditions

Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day or July 4th, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the country's declaration of independence from Great Britain in 1776. This year, Independence Day falls on Tuesday. 

The Fourth of July history and origins

Before America was its own country, it was comprised of 13 colonies established by the Brits: New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Delaware, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. 

European countries, especially Great Britain, continued to colonize America throughout the 17th century and a good portion of the 18th century. 

Although the history of Independence Day goes back to the 18th century and the Revolutionary War which broke out in April 1775, the Fourth of July has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941.

On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. 

How people in the United States celebrate the Fourth of July? 

Parades: Several towns and cities across the United States host parades on the Fourth of July, typically feature marching bands, floats, patriotic displays, and participants dressed in red, white, and blue. 

The Fourth of July parades can also be followed by festivals, carnivals or fairs that provide yummy food, fun rides and other family-friendly activities.

Patriotic Decorations: Many citizens and residents decorate their homes and yards with patriotic-themed decorations such as banners, balloons, and wreaths that are in red, white, and blue. 

Flag Displays: Americans display the national flag on houses, buildings, and public spaces during Independence Day. Some people wave the flag in their yards, but others wave mini American flags to celebrate, especially at parades and festivals.

Fireworks: Fireworks shows are a prominent part of the Fourth of July celebrations, and they are often accompanied by music and attended by large crowds. People also purchase their own fireworks and set them off in their backyards.

The tradition of setting off fireworks on the Fourh of July began in Philadelphia on July 4th, 1777, during the first organized celebration of Independence Day.

Around 15,000 fireworks displays occur for the Fourth of July holiday, even if some aren't exactly on July 4th, according to a 2017 American Pyrotechnics Association projection. Most small towns spend anywhere from $8,000 to $15,000 for a fireworks display, with larger cities going into the millions.

Waving Sparklers: These hand-held fireworks are family favorites during the Fourth of July. The colored flames and sparks help light up the area on America's Independence Day.

Outdoor Activities: Outdoor activities during the Fourth of July may include swimming, boating, hiking, playing sports, or attending outdoor concerts and festivals. 

You can head to the lake, ocean or mountains to have some outdoor fun in honor of America, or plan a trip to a historic city to learn more about its role in early American history.

Barbecues and Picnics: The Fourth of July is a popular time for outdoor gatherings with family and friends to enjoy good food and company. Barbecues and picnics are common, with people grilling burgers, and hot dogs, and enjoying classic American apple pie. 

You can't have a barbecue without some backyard fun. Many people compete in backyard games while celebrating America's independence. 

Americans consume about 150 million hot dogs, a typical American dish, while celebrating Independence Day. 

You can't have a barbecue without some backyard fun. Many people compete in backyard games while celebrating America's independence. 

Most common symbol of the Fourth of July

The most common symbol of the holiday is the American flag, and a common musical accompaniment is "The Star-Spangled Banner," the national anthem of the United States.

Wearing the colors of the American flag is another Fourth of July tradition many people participate in.