On the Fourth of July, in 1776, the declaration of the United States’ independence was approved unanimously by the Second Continental Congress, marking freedom from Great Britain's rule. Later, the treaty of Paris in 1783 acknowledged US independence, ending an era which lasted around 167 years.
Today, Americans celebrate what they consider the “biggest holiday of the year”, the 248th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America. This occasion honors the signing of the Independence Declaration by the Founding Fathers, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay and James Madison.
The declaration rejected the authority of the British Empire and declared the North American colonies to be independent states.
Across the US on this day, Americans go for their traditional annual activities, such as barbecues, picnics, town parades and fireworks shows.
The Flag
Although this day is very relaxed, there is a significant dress code that almost everyone adheres to in the US. People are practically required to wear red, white and blue as symbolizing patriotism and love for the independent nation. Despite that these friendly colors blend well with each other; they are also considered national colors for Americans and represent important values. They are the colors of the US flag.
The red represents hardiness and valor, blue is for vigilance, perseverance and justice. Finally, the white is an expression of purity and innocence.
Parades & Gatherings
Nearly every US city hosts parades, town festivals and block parties. In Washington DC as in other major cities, the most important tradition of this holiday is spending time with the people you care about. Whether you live with your family, or friends, the Fourth of July is the best day to spend along with someone. In states such as Texas, families will benefit from this day to rent a summer house and enjoy a vacation together. Americans living in cities will get together with friends or roommates and attend the events, mainly parades and fireworks, across the city.
Fireworks
As for fireworks, nearly every county hosts shows consisting of fireworks. In the west coast, specifically in Pasadena, one of the best celebrations is held under the name “Fireworks Spectacular”. San Diego’s “Big Day Boom” is advertised as the largest fireworks show in the West Coast. This 18-minute show is attended by nearly 500,000 people.
On the East Coast, huge celebrations take place in Philadelphia, on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The largest however, is Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks display in New York. In this show, fireworks are launched from boats on the East River and watched from rooftops around the city of Manhattan.
The Fourth of July is the most popular Independence Day, not only for Americans but for the whole world. This is because it is interesting to know how the nation which dominates the whole world got its independence.
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