Independence Day 2024: When and How to Celebrate the Main US Holiday
One thousand nine hundred and ninety-eight days ago, the United States of America was founded. On July 4th, 2024, the country will celebrate more than 200 years of independence.
This year’s festivities will be bigger and better than ever before, with a variety of concerts, parades, and fireworks shows planned across the country.
So mark your calendars now and join in on the celebration! In this post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about American Independence Day.
Contents:
- When is Independence Day?
- Brief History of Independence Day
- How to Celebrate US Independence Day?
- Interesting 4th of July Facts Every American Should Know
- Quotes about Independence Day
When is Independence Day?
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In the United States, Independence Day—commonly known as the Fourth of July—is a federal holiday commemorating the Declaration of Independence of the United States. Congress declared the day to be a national holiday in 1941, and it has been celebrated annually since 1776.
The date of the holiday was originally chosen to mark the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, which took place on July 4, 1776. However, in subsequent years, the holiday has come to represent the birth of the United States as a nation.
Independence Day in the United States is a federal holiday. If the Fourth of July falls on a Saturday, it is observed on the preceding Friday. If it falls on a Sunday, it is observed on the following Monday. Many Americans celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, parades, and barbecues.
Brief History of Independence Day
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July 4th is Independence Day in the United States of America. The country celebrates its birthday on this day because it was on July 4, 1776 that the Continental Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence. This document proclaimed the independence of 13 American colonies from Great Britain.
That means that America is officially 246 years old this year–that’s a lot of birthday candles on that cake, isn’t it?!
Early celebrations of Independence Day were quite different from the fireworks and barbecues we enjoy today. In 1777, just one year after the Declaration was signed, Philadelphia held a large parade and had an official reading of the Declaration in front of the State House (now known as Independence Hall).
For many years, 4th of July was celebrated primarily in New England. It wasn’t until after the War of 1812 that Independence Day became a national holiday.
Now, more than 200 years later, Americans all over the country celebrate their independence on July 4th with picnics, parades, and fireworks displays.
And while the holiday may look different now than it did in 1776, its purpose remains the same: to celebrate the birth of a nation and to remember the brave men and women who fought to give us our freedom.
How to Celebrate US Independence Day?
Most people in the United States celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks, cookouts, and parades. Let’s explore some top Independence Day traditions.
Barbecues
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The 4th of July is a day that is synonymous with barbecues. All across America, people gather to cook out and enjoy some time with family and friends. Barbecues are the perfect way to celebrate the 4th of July, and there are a few things that make them even more special.
First of all, the smell of barbecue is sure to get everyone in the mood for a party. Additionally, barbecues always seem to bring people together, no matter what their differences may be. And finally, nothing tastes quite as good as a burger or hot dog cooked on the grill.
So this 4th of July, fire up the grill and enjoy some time with your loved ones. Happy 4th of July!
Food for the Independence Day
The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate America’s independence, and what better way to do that than with some traditional American food? One classic dish is the all-American hot dog, which can be grilled or boiled and served with a variety of toppings, such as ketchup, mustard, relish, and onions.
Another popular option is hamburgers, which can also be grilled or boiled and topped with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickles.
For something a little sweeter, pies are always a hit–think apple pie or cherry pie.
Backyard Celebrations
While there are many ways to enjoy the holiday, backyard celebrations are a great way to relax and have fun. Here are a few games to make your Fourth of July party a hit:
- Water Balloon Toss: This classic game is a great way to cool off on a hot summer day. Divide guests into teams of two and have them stand opposite each other. Give each team a balloon filled with water. The object of the game is to toss the balloon back and forth, trying not to drop it. If the balloon breaks, the team is out. The last team standing wins!
- Cornhole: This popular game can be played with two or more people. Set up two boards placed 27 feet apart, with each board having a hole in the center. Players take turns throwing bean bags at the boards, trying to get them through the hole. Points are awarded for each bag that goes through the hole, with extra points for bags that land on the board. The first player or team to reach 21 points wins!
- Limbo: This fun game is perfect for group gatherings. Have guests form a line and hold both ends of a stick. Each participant needs to bend backward to get beneath the stick– if they touch the ground, they’re out!
Read also Fun Outdoor Games and Activities for Kids.
Parades and Concerts
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The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate America’s independence, and there are many traditions that have arisen around this holiday.
One of the most popular is the parade. Many towns and cities across the country hold parades on the Fourth of July, featuring floats, marching bands, and local dignitaries. This is a great way for families to come together and show their patriotism.
Another tradition that has become popular in recent years is the concert. Many musical groups will put on special performances on the Fourth of July, often featuring patriotic songs and themes. These concerts are a great way to enjoy the holiday while also getting into the patriotic spirit.
Wearing Red, White, and Blue
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Whether you choose a classic button-down shirt or a flowy sundress, there are plenty of ways to show your support for the stars and stripes.
To get you started, here are a few Fourth of July fashion and beauty ideas:
- Opt for a light blue denim shirt or dress. Pair it with white shorts or a skirt and red accessories, like a scarf or sandals.
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- Wear a white top with blue jeans or a blue skirt. Add a pop of red with your shoes, handbag, or nails.
- Go for an all-red look with a red dress or pantsuit. Accentuate the look with white heels or a pearl necklace.
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- Show your patriotism from head to toe with an American flag T-shirt or tank top. Complete the look with denim cutoffs or shorts and sneakers.
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And don’t forget about your nails! A patriotic manicure is the perfect finishing touch to any Fourth of July outfit.
Creating Patriotic Crafts
One easy way to show your patriotism is to make some patriotic-themed crafts. A simple but effective way to do this is to decorate some small American flags and display them around your home. Or, if you’re feeling more ambitious, you could try your hand at making some red, white, and blue bunting to decorate your front porch or patio.
Another great way to show your patriotic side on the Fourth of July is to make some homemade Fourth of July decorations. One idea is to create a star-spangled wreath for your front door. Or, you could try making some paper lanterns in patriotic colors to hang up around your home.
Here’s a video with even more fun crafts to celebrate the holiday:
Fireworks
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Fireworks are an integral component of most 4th of July celebrations. But believe it or not, they aren’t totally American!
The origins of the Fourth of July fireworks display can be traced back to China. Centuries ago, the Chinese used to set off firecrackers to scare away evil spirits.
The tradition eventually made its way to Europe, where it became associated with holidays and festivals. In the United States, the first recorded fireworks display was held in 1777 to celebrate the Declaration of Independence.
Every year, Americans gather to watch as colorful rockets light up the night sky. The spectacle is a reminder of the rich history and traditions that make our country so unique.
Here is a video compilation of some of the best fireworks displays for the holiday:
Interesting 4th of July Facts Every American Should Know
The Fourth of July is a time for every American to celebrate our nation’s independence. Here are some interesting facts about this important day that everyone should know:
Liberty Bell Traditions
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The Liberty Bell is one of the United States’ most iconic symbols. Dating back to the 18th century, the bell has been a rallying point for freedom and liberty.
Today, it is a popular tourist destination in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The bell was originally commissioned by the Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly in 1751. It was cast in London and shipped to Philadelphia, where it was hung in the State House. The bell first rang on July 8, 1776, to celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
However, it was later damaged by a crack that could not be repaired. In 1846, the bell was removed from the State House and placed on display at Independence Hall. It remained there until it was moved to its current home at Liberty Bell Center. The Liberty Bell continues to inspire people from all walks of life and is a powerful reminder of the importance of freedom and liberty.
Hot Dogs are Huge!
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Hot dogs are a staple of American cuisine, and each year on the Fourth of July, millions of Americans enjoy this delicious food.
According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans consume more than 155 million hot dogs on Independence Day. That’s enough hot dogs to stretch from Washington, D.C. to Los Angeles more than five times.
While hot dogs are popular year-round, they are especially popular in the summer months when people are grilling and picnicking outdoors. In addition to being a delicious food, hot dogs are also a symbol of American culture and tradition.
So, next time you’re celebrating the Fourth of July with friends and family, don’t forget to enjoy a few delicious hot dogs.
Red, White, and Blue Weren’t Always Essential
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While red, white, and blue are the colors typically associated with the Fourth of July in the United States, they were not originally part of the holiday. In fact, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that these colors became widely used to decorate for the Fourth of July.
The Fourth of July is a celebration of the United States’ independence from Great Britain, and the original holiday did not include any patriotic decorations.
It wasn’t until Flag Day became a national holiday in 1916 that Americans began to decorate their homes and businesses with flags and other patriotic symbols. After World War I, the prevalence of red, white, and blue decorations increased as Americans sought to express their patriotism.
Today, these colors are synonymous with the Fourth of July, and millions of Americans celebrate the holiday by hanging flags, attending parades, and setting off fireworks.
Which Three Presidents Died on the Fourth of July?
Three of our nation’s presidents died on the Fourth of July: Thomas Jefferson in 1826, John Adams in 1826, and James Monroe in 1831.
While these men had very different beliefs and policies, they were united in their love of country. Jefferson was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence, Adams was the second president and one of the key architects of the Constitution, and Monroe served as the fifth president and oversaw the expansion of the United States into the American West.
Where Was the First Annual Commemoration of Independence Day?
The first annual commemoration of Independence Day was held in Philadelphia on July 4, 1777. The event was organized by the Continental Congress and featured speeches, parades, and fireworks. In attendance were delegates from all thirteen colonies, as well as many dignitaries and military officers.
The day was a huge success, and the celebration has continued in Philadelphia ever since. Today, Independence Day is celebrated all across the United States with parades, fireworks, and barbecues. It is a day to reflect on our nation’s history and to celebrate our freedom.
Quotes about Independence Day
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July 4th is a day that is very special to Americans. It is a day when we celebrate our country’s independence. On this day, we reflect on the sacrifices that were made by our Founding Fathers and the brave men and women who have fought to protect our freedom. We also celebrate the many blessings that we enjoy as Americans. We are truly a blessed nation!
Here are some quotes about Independence Day that will inspire you to celebrate this special holiday:
- “Freedom is never given; it is won.” – A. Philip Randolph.
- “Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.” – George Washington.
- “Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.” – Thomas Jefferson.
- “Independence is happiness.” – Susan B. Anthony.
- “Let others follow as they may, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!” – Patrick Henry.
- “America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.” – Abraham Lincoln.
- “Freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirit of men and so it must be daily earned and refreshed – else like a flower cut from its life-giving roots, it will wither and die.” – Dwight D. Eisenhower.
- “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” – Thomas Jefferson.
- “Independence is my happiness, and I view things as they are, without regard to place or person; my country is the world, and my religion is to do good.” – Thomas Paine
- “In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Independence Day is a time to celebrate our nation’s independence and the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. As parents, it’s important that we take this holiday to teach our children about our country’s history and what it means to be an American. There are many ways to celebrate Independence Day with your kids, and we hope you will join us in marking this special day!
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