Recall the significance of this important American holiday. What exactly occurred on July 4, 1776? How did our country’s founders envision celebrating Independence Day? What are some ways to get ready for YOUR Fourth of July?
When is this year’s Happy Independence Day 2024?
The United States observes a federal holiday on July 4th in honor of the Declaration of Independence. If the Fourth of July falls on a Sunday, the federal holiday is observed the following Monday, July 4. If the Fourth of July falls on a Saturday, most (but not all) federal employees will be off on Friday, July 3.
An Overview of the History of USA Independence Day
We remember July 4, 1776, as the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, America’s revolutionary Charter of Freedom, and the document that established the nation’s founding principles. However, July 4 was not the day on which independence was declared. Neither was the day the Declaration of Independence was officially signed.
| Independence Day USA Date | Tuesday, July 4, 2024 |
| Also called | The Fourth of July |
| Celebrations | Fireworks, family reunions, concerts, barbecues, picnics, parades, baseball games |
| Significance | The day in 1776 that the Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress |
So, what actually happened on July 4, 1776?
This holiday commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by delegates from the 13 colonies on July 4, 1776. The Continental Congress approved the final wording of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th. Today we commemorate the birth of the United States of America.
- The American Revolution began on April 19, 1775. The first shots were fired between colonists and British troops during the Battles of Lexington and Concord (Mass.). Following these initial military conflicts, tensions between Britain and her American colonists grew.
- The Second Continental Congress voted for independence from Britain on July 2, 1776.
- On July 4, 1776, Congress approved the final draft of the Declaration of Independence, which had been written by Thomas Jefferson (in June) and edited by John Adams and Benjamin Franklin.
- The first public reading of the Declaration of Independence took place on July 8, 1776, at the Pennsylvania State House (now Independence Hall) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Other readings occurred later that day in Trenton, New Jersey, and Easton, Pennsylvania. Printer John Dunlap printed about 200 copies of the Pronouncement on July 4, 1776. These were known as “Dunlap Broadsides,” and they were divided up throughout the 13 colonies.
- However, the Declaration was not officially signed until August 2, 1776. The president of the Congress, John Hancock, was the first of 56 commissioners to sign this enlarged version in large, bold letters. The Declaration of Independence became official on August 4, 1776, after delegates from the Continental Congress signed it.
The Declaration of Independence: Refresh Your Memory
- The Declaration of Independence is one of the most important documents in American history. It was an official declaration of independence from British control signed by all 13 American colonies.
- The text was originally prepared by Thomas Jefferson, but Benjamin Franklin and John Adams collaborated with Jefferson to make improvements. The final text of the Declaration of Independence was approved on July 4, 1776, while the final document was signed on August 2, 1776.
Celebrating the Happy Fourth of July 2024
- Independence Day is a federal holiday in the United States that is historically celebrated with parades, concerts, outdoor meals, and fireworks. Here are five ideas for getting ready for the Fourth of July!
- Raise the Flag: If you lack a flagpole, consider using a front-entry flag! Check the American Flag Guidelines before hanging Old Glory to ensure that you can proudly and correctly display your flag.
- Maintain a relaxed demeanor: Keep in mind that this isn’t a “fancy” supper. For the Fourth of July, a summer BBQ or picnic cuisine is the way to go. Check out our Fourth of July recipes for a tasty picnic or barbeque, as well as a selection of patriotic sweets!
- Play Games: It makes no difference whether you’re young or young at heart. If you’re hanging out on the porch, bring out the cornhole and horseshoe games, croquet, or just backgammon set! Bring your own games to a 4th of July party, as it may be several hours before the fireworks begin.
- Keep the tradition of fireworks going: Whether it’s just poppers, snaps, and snakes or a larger display. Children adore sparklers. Give them out one at a time to enjoy the enchantment. Of course, adults and a fire extinguisher should always be nearby for safety.
- Beat the Heat and the Bugs: If you’re going to be outside, make sure you have sunscreen, sunshades, enough drinking water, and bug spray. Check out our non-toxic mosquito repellents and simple pantry treatments for mosquito bites.
