Independence Day, or the Fourth of July, is arguably America's favorite holiday! Because the day commemorates the United States gaining its independence, it is historically filled with celebrations. One of the year's most colorful and exciting celebrations. It's a time to gather with friends, eat your favorite summer foods, listen to music, and have a good time.
The background
Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
At the time, the United States was comprised of thirteen British colonies. The two had been at odds for over a year, but relations had deteriorated for over a decade. The colonies desired self-government, which had been a contention for both parties.
The Declaration of Independence was signed in July 1776, declaring that the colonies in the United States would become independent states and would no longer be subject to British rule. On July 2nd, Congress voted to declare independence, which was announced two days later on July 4th. This resulted in the celebrations that we still have today.
The colors red, white, and blue
While the day is casual, there is a necessary dress code that almost everyone follows.
Wearing red, white, and blue is practically required! And while these warm colors complement each other well, they are also our national colors and represent essential values.
The red represents toughness and bravery.
White symbolizes purity and innocence.
The color blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice.
Block parties and parades
The Fourth of July is a great time to mingle, and parades, town festivals, and block parties are held in almost every city in the United States. The celebration is much greater in cities like Washington, D.C., but the Fourth of July in Philadelphia is a must-see!
Given that it is the site of the Declaration of Independence, the city lives up to the hype and throws an outstanding celebration. Every year, Philadelphia has an event called Party on the Parkway, which shuts down a whole stretch of the city to provide performances, games, food trucks, and activities for the entire family.
Outdoor performances and concerts
Concerts are an excellent way to spend a day. Most cities host park concerts or events. New York has a free summer concert series called Central Park SummerStage. There are also numerous outdoor films and theatre performances throughout the city. It's the ideal spot to spread out a blanket, relax throughout the movie or concert, and then stay for the fireworks.
Friends and family
Spending time with people you care about is another key Christmas custom. This is an excellent day to spend time with family or friends, regardless of where you live. In some regions of the country, family will utilise this as an opportunity to rent a summer house near the ocean and spend time together. Others will gather with roommates and friends to attend events around town. Whatever you decide to do with your day, it's nice to do it with someone by your side.
Fireworks
No Fourth of July celebration is complete without a spectacular fireworks show. Whether in a tiny hamlet or a large metropolitan location, almost every county hosts a fireworks display. AmeriFest at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena and the Hollywood Bowl's "Fireworks Spectacular" are two popular west coast festivals.
On the east coast, there's a massive exhibition on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway over the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks Display in New York, however, is the largest in the country. Fireworks are released from East River vessels and are best enjoyed from a rooftop in Manhattan.
Happy 4th of July everyone from Kohne Family Seafoods.
