July 4, 1776

Independence Day is a day commemorating the United States’ adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. In doing so, the Continental Congress declared the thirteen American colonies regarded themselves as free and independent states, the United States of America, and were no longer connected to the British Crown.

From the beginning, Americans celebrated independence on July 4, the date shown on the Declaration of Independence, rather than July 2, the date the resolution of independence was approved in a closed session of the Congress. Independence Day is associated with fireworks, barbecues, fairs, parades, and various other events celebrating the history and traditions of the United States.