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What Is Independence Day and What Do We Celebrate on the 4th of July?

Learn what Independence Day is, what it celebrates, and why the 4th of July is a significant American holiday.

4 min read

Independence Day, commonly known as the 4th of July, is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This document declared the thirteen American colonies' independence from Great Britain, marking the birth of the United States of America. If you're planning ahead or checking past years, you can quickly find the exact date and weekday using our Independence Day Date Calculator and see time remaining on the Independence Day Countdown.

What Is Independence Day?

Independence Day is a national holiday observed annually on July 4 in the United States. It celebrates the moment when the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, establishing the United States as a sovereign nation independent from British rule.

The holiday has been celebrated since the late 18th century and became a federal holiday in 1870. Today, it is marked with parades, fireworks, barbecues, concerts, and various patriotic displays across the country.

What Does the 4th of July Celebrate?

The 4th of July celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, which was signed by representatives of the thirteen colonies. This document declared that the colonies were free and independent states, no longer subject to British rule.

Key events that the holiday commemorates include:

  • The signing of the Declaration of Independence, which articulated the colonies' reasons for seeking independence
  • The birth of the United States as a new nation
  • The ideals of liberty, democracy, and self-governance that the nation was founded upon
  • The sacrifices made by those who fought for independence

How People Celebrate Today

Modern celebrations of Independence Day include:

  • Fireworks displays: Cities and towns across the country host spectacular fireworks shows
  • Parades: Communities organize parades featuring marching bands, floats, and patriotic themes
  • Barbecues and picnics: Families and friends gather for outdoor meals and cookouts
  • Concerts: Patriotic music concerts, especially performances of "The Star-Spangled Banner"
  • Red, white, and blue decorations: Homes, businesses, and public spaces are decorated with American flags and patriotic colors
  • Beach trips and outdoor activities: Many people take advantage of the summer weather for recreational activities

Is Independence Day the Birthday of the United States?

While Independence Day is often referred to as the "birthday" of the United States, this is a symbolic rather than literal description. July 4, 1776, marks the date when the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, which declared the colonies' independence from Great Britain.

However, the actual process of nation-building took several years:

  • The Revolutionary War continued until 1783
  • The Articles of Confederation were adopted in 1781
  • The U.S. Constitution was ratified in 1788
  • The first president, George Washington, was inaugurated in 1789

So while July 4, 1776, is symbolically considered the nation's birth date, the full establishment of the United States as we know it today occurred over many years.

FAQ

  • Is Independence Day always on July 4? Yes. Independence Day is always observed on July 4 in the United States, regardless of which day of the week it falls on.

  • What does Independence Day celebrate? It celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, which declared the American colonies' independence from Great Britain.

  • Is the 4th of July a federal holiday? Yes. Independence Day has been a federal holiday since 1870. Federal offices, banks, and many businesses are closed on this day.

  • What do people do on Independence Day? Common activities include watching fireworks, attending parades, hosting barbecues and picnics, decorating with patriotic colors, and spending time with family and friends.

  • Why is Independence Day important? It commemorates the founding of the United States and the principles of liberty, democracy, and self-governance that the nation was built upon.

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