On July 4th, we celebrate the noble principles of freedom. We gather with family and friends to grill out, watch fireworks, and reflect on what it means to be an American. But for many, this day can also be painful as it symbolizes the anniversary of a tragedy.
What Is Independence Day?
Independence Day is the national holiday that commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 –liberation from Great Britain.
What Did the First 4th of July Celebration Look Like?
July 4 is a time to celebrate everything that’s American. It is remarkable because Pennsylvania became the first 13 colonies to declare independence from Great Britain on this day. Hence, the Continental Congress approved a resolution “to observe and celebrate the anniversary of this memorable day.” The first Independence Day was celebrated on July 4, 1777, when fireworks were set off in Philadelphia to signal the end of the British Siege of Fort Mifflin. Today, we celebrate it by wearing red, white, and blue, eating hot dogs and potato salad, and spending time with the people we care about.
Where Do 4th of July Traditions Come From?
Honestly, barbecues, fireworks, hotdogs, and parades are just a few American traditions that take place around Independence Day. There are many more if someone digs out the history and most of them come from the early settlers.
While parades and barbecues have been around since the early days of America, other traditions like hot dogs and watermelons weren’t invented until the 20th century. Since America is a nation of immigrants, therefore different kinds of foods are found on the picnic table on this day representing unity in diversity.
How Is the 4th of July Celebrated Today?
Independence Day is a time for all Americans to celebrate freedom and democracy. With Independence Day on July 4th, it’s fitting that Memorial Day is also celebrated on Monday, May 30, which is the unofficial start of summer and marks the 150th anniversary of the end of the Civil War. It also honors the service members who died while in the military service and commemorates the first public parade in commemoration of the war.
Today, the holiday is marked with a variety of traditions, including parades, fireworks displays, barbecues, and family gatherings. People also install residential flagpoles in their front yards and fly the American flag as a display of patriotism. Many cities and towns also host fireworks shows, which are often accompanied by patriotic music. Families and friends come together to enjoy cookouts and outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and camping. The day is also an opportunity to reflect on the country’s history and values and to honor those who have served and sacrificed to defend its freedom.
But hold on, did you know that the 4th of July also marks the end of LGBTQ+ month and gay pride month which is in June? The LGBTQ community dates back centuries to the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians. The LGBTQ+ community also takes great pride in celebrating the 4th of July, as it is done to monumentalize the Stonewall riots, which occurred at the end of June 1969– several pride events are held during this time to acknowledge the impact of the LGBT community on the world.
Anyway, as said earlier, people in modern times have embraced a few traditions tightly. For instance, the following food items are consumed with joy and pride on this day:
- Hot dogs
- Hamburgers
- Beans
- Chip
- Salad
- Desserts
- Ice cream/popsicles
While people begin the day with a feast, it ends on a spectacular note with mesmerizing fireworks lighting the night sky in vivid colors.
But, in addition to being in the mood for celebration, the 4th is also a time for being safe since many people are out and about drinking. It’s important to recognize that even alcohol in moderation can be harmful, so it’s important to know your limits and stay safe this Independence Day.