Independence Day — commonly called the Fourth of July — is the United States' national holiday, celebrating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. On that date, the Second Continental Congress formally declared that the thirteen American colonies were no longer subject to British rule, founding a new sovereign nation. The holiday is observed with fireworks, parades, barbecues, concerts, family gatherings and patriotic ceremonies across every state in the country.
The Declaration of Independence was primarily drafted by Thomas Jefferson and proclaimed that all men are created equal, with unalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The document was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, though the Revolutionary War itself would continue until 1783. Congress declared Independence Day a federal holiday in 1870, and since 1941 it has been a paid federal holiday for government workers. It is now one of the most universally observed holidays in the United States.
The Fourth of July is synonymous with fireworks — an estimated 14,000 fireworks displays take place across the US on July 4. The largest is Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular in New York City, which uses approximately 48,000 shells and is watched by around 3 million spectators on the ground and 7 million on television. Americans spend over $2 billion on fireworks each year, accounting for more than 90% of global consumer fireworks consumption.
When is Independence Day 2026?
Independence Day 2026 falls on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Because it falls on a Saturday, the observed federal holiday may shift to Friday, July 3.
What is the Fourth of July celebrating?
The Fourth of July celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, when the thirteen American colonies declared independence from British rule and founded the United States of America.
When did the US declare independence from Britain?
The Continental Congress voted to declare independence on July 2, 1776, and formally adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. John Adams famously predicted July 2 would be celebrated, not July 4.
Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?
The Declaration of Independence was primarily written by Thomas Jefferson, with revisions from Benjamin Franklin, John Adams and the full Continental Congress. It was adopted on July 4, 1776.
Why do Americans celebrate with fireworks?
Fireworks have been part of July 4 celebrations since 1777, when the first anniversary of independence was marked by Philadelphia with fireworks and a 13-gun salute. John Adams wrote in 1776 that the occasion ought to be celebrated with 'illuminations' — an early term for fireworks.
Is the Fourth of July a federal holiday?
Yes. Independence Day was made a federal holiday in 1870 and has been a paid federal holiday since 1941. Banks, government offices and many businesses close on July 4.
What is special about Independence Day 2026?
July 4, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of American independence — the Semiquincentennial. Major national celebrations are planned across the country, making it one of the most significant Independence Days in US history.
Where are the best Fourth of July fireworks?
The most famous displays are Macy's Fireworks in New York City, the National Mall in Washington DC, the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, Navy Pier in Chicago and the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.
Do other countries celebrate on July 4?
July 4 is a US holiday. The Philippines and Rwanda also celebrate independence days in July, on different dates. Many US embassies worldwide hold Fourth of July receptions.
What food is traditional on the Fourth of July?
Classic Fourth of July food includes burgers and hot dogs on the grill, potato salad, corn on the cob, coleslaw, watermelon, apple pie and ice cream. Americans consume about 155 million hot dogs on July 4.