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Independence Day (United States)

 Fourth of July" and "4th of July" redirect here. For the calendar date, see July 4. For other uses, see Fourth of July (disambiguation).

Independence Day, known colloquially as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the Declaration of Independence, which was ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America.

Independence Day
Fourth of July fireworks behind the Washington Monument, 1986.jpg
Fireworks displays, such as these over the Washington Monument in 1986, take place across the United States on Independence Day.
Also calledFourth of July
Observed byUnited States
TypeNational day
SignificanceThe day in 1776 that the Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia
CelebrationsFireworks, family reunions, concerts, barbecues, picnics, parades, baseball games
DateJuly 4[a]
FrequencyAnnual

The Founding Father delegates of the Second Continental Congress declared that the Thirteen Colonies were no longer subject (and subordinate) to the monarch of Britain, King George III, and were now united, free, and independent states.[1] The Congress voted to approve independence by passing the Lee Resolution on July 2 and adopted the Declaration of Independence two days later, on July 4.[1]

Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts,[2] baseball games, family reunions, political speeches, and ceremonies, in addition to various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States. Independence Day is the national day of the United States.[3][4][5]

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Philadelphia Welcome America Festival

  • Annual series of celebrations leading up to Independence Day

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