Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, is celebrated annually in the United States. Fireworks, cookouts, festivals, and events are held annually to honor the historic occasion.

The fight to gain our independence as a nation wasn’t an easy one and was fought by brave troops who sought freedom from the tyranny of the British government. While it wasn’t always a holiday, the Fourth of July has become a time-honored tradition in the United States.

The History of Independence Day

Before the American Revolution, the 13 colonies were under British rule. Over time, different events occurred that enraged the colonists until there came a tipping point. The 13 colonies banded together to seek their freedom from the British monarchy, aiming for independence to create their own government and nation.

After the first year of fighting with the British, the colonies gathered to draft a document legalizing their separation from England. The Declaration of Independence was signed on July 2nd, 1776, but required a few revisions until it was complete on July 4th, 1776. However, the war with England continued for approximately seven years after the ratification of the document.

How the Celebrations Have Evolved

After the signing and ratification of the Declaration, the first public reading of the document took place on July 8th, 1776. The public celebrated with music and the ringing of bells. The following year, Congress celebrated Independence Day by adjourning early and celebrating with fireworks, bonfires, and bells.

Eventually, these celebrations spread to other cities and towns within the United States. The celebrations evolved into fireworks, military displays, picnics, contests, and games. After the War of 1812, these celebrations became even more commonplace nationwide.

Independence Day was officially established as a national holiday by Congress in 1870, which later became a paid federal holiday in 1938. Now, Independence Day is celebrated in many different ways, including parades, performances, music, and the traditional fireworks display.

How You Can Celebrate Independence Day This Year

If you’re looking for different ways to celebrate the Fourth of July this year, we’ve created a helpful list of ideas to help you get creative with your festivities:

1. Wear Patriotic Colors

If you’re looking for an easy way to show your pride in your nation, wear red, white, and blue on the Fourth of July. You can find plenty of patriotic attire around Independence Day, with different patterns, color variations, styles, and more! Dress in head to toe with patriotic colors, or add a little flair to your outfit with the right accessory.

2. Have a Picnic With Family and Friends

A picnic is a fun, traditional way to celebrate the Fourth of July. You can schedule a picnic before a fireworks display or other activities you and your family want to enjoy on the holiday. As you plan your picnic, you can pack balls, frisbees, and other things to play with while spending time with your family.

You can also look for community picnics if you want to spend some time with your community. Often, parks, military bases, and other local communities will host a picnic or other outdoor event during the Fourth of July, which is an excellent time to get out and showcase your patriotic spirit with your family and friends.

3. Host a Barbeque

Another fun way to celebrate with friends and family is to host a barbeque, whether you host it at your home or a local park. You can get together, eat good food, spend time with loved ones, and play fun games. Decorate with patriotic colors and even encourage your community to get involved by making it a potluck.

4. Spend Time Outdoors

The Fourth of July happens in the middle of summer, which is an excellent time to get outside with your loved ones. There are plenty of things you can do outside, including:

●Hiking

●Fishing

●Camping

●Swimming

●Camping

5. Attend a Parade

Many towns and cities hold Fourth of July parades to celebrate with their community. Often, these parades are free to attend and are a great way to celebrate Independence Day with your family, friends, and neighbors. Parades often have vendors and activities you can enjoy while you watch the procession.

6. Watch Fireworks

Fireworks have been a tradition during the Fourth of July since the Declaration of Independence was signed. You’ll find fireworks shows all across the country. If you don’t feel like attending a massive fireworks show, you can buy fireworks to use at your home. Gather your friends and family together to create your own light show for a memorable experience.

7. Visit a Historical Landmark or Museum

If you have some spare time, you can go on a trip with your family and friends to a national monument where you can learn more about the rich history of your country. You can also visit a museum, where you can get a closer look at artifacts, historical documents, and other information about the founding of our nation.

Happy Fourth of July From Us at MLC

No matter what adversity we face, it is important that we as a country not lose hope. We only have to look back at this significant day to realize that our great country always comes together and triumphs over adversity. All of us here at MLC would like to wish you and all your loved ones a happy and safe Fourth of July!