On July 4,1776, the American Colonies declared their independence from England. Their intent become an independent country was spelled out in a document called the Declaration of Independence. Independence Day is a holiday marking the anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, and considered the birthday of the United States. It is one of the most celebrated holidays in the USA.

Independence Day is usually celebrated with picnics and barbecues. Some communities will host parades. The day's festivities are topped off at night with the largest fireworks display of the year. Military music, and patriotic songs are popular on this holiday. Hot Dogs, hamburgers, beer, and soda are traditional foods on the 4th of July.

In Philadelphia, the place where the Declaration was signed in 1776, Independence Day is marked by a weeklong celebration. Washington DC hosts a large celebration on the Capital Mall. In Wyoming, like many western states, Independence Day is celebrated with rodeos, and the shooting of firearms. In Flagstaff, Arizona a 3 day pow-wow is held by American Indians. At Fort Ticonderoga in New York, there are historic reenactments of revolutionary war battles.

The first Independence Day celebration was in Philadelphia on July 4, 1777. The Declaration was read, bells were rung, and a celebration ensued. In 1783, when the War of Independence ended between Britain and the United States, Independence Day was made America's first official holiday. In 1941, Congress declared Independence Day a federal public holiday.

Note: This holiday is one of Calendar Mine's over 500 built-in observances.

See Also

Holiday Catalogue

American (USA) Observances