Traditions of Independence Day: Five Ways Americans Celebrate the Fourth
The American Republic officially began on July 2, 1776, when members of the Continental Congress convened at the Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia to adopt the resolution Richard Henry Lee of Virginia had proposed on June 7 calling for the United Colonies to be free and independent from Great Britain.
The group agreed two days later to the historic Declaration of Independence, which justified the action by "declaring the motives which urge them to separate."
Colonial Americans began the tradition of celebrating Independence Day with speeches, parades, music, and fireworks, which has mostly continued to this day.
We'll show you five different ways Americans celebrate the Fourth of July.
Observe fireworks
An American custom is to visit the neighborhood fireworks stand to purchase sparklers, ground flowers, and Roman candles. However, it appears that lighting them off a week prior to July 4th is also a custom.
Put the flag up.
While troops will fire one gun for each state in the union during the "salute to the union" gun salute at noon on US military facilities, which will mark Independence Day. However, as gun salutes are generally frowned upon in neighborhoods, we'll stay with our recommendation that you display the American flag and remember the soldiers who have sacrificed themselves throughout the years to ensure our continuous freedom.
Attend a parade
Americans adore parades, whether they take place at midnight or at a more respectable hour. When the weather is nice, people in little communities and big cities all throughout America line the streets to watch parades with floats, horses, cheerleaders, military groups, and marching bands. Participants frequently wave flags while handing out candy.
Everything is red, white, and blue.
We've all seen those special Fourth of July-only shirts or jeans. Each person is dressed to the nines in their finest red, white, and blue garb. You'll look rad whether you're wearing wild red, white, and blue socks that are a necessity for Independence Day or amazing overalls that you've been saving for this special occasion.
Visit cookouts
Who doesn't enjoy burgers, brats, hot dogs, and steak, after all? On Independence Day, you can nearly always find a grill going in almost every American neighborhood, rain or shine. Backyard barbecues and block parties are the ideal ways to foster a sense of community and commemorate independence, whether they are enjoyed with family, friends, or neighbors.
We want to wish you a happy Fourth of July regardless of whether you are setting off fireworks, grilling out, hanging out with friends, or participating in a parade.