When do we celebrate Independence Day?

INDEPENDENCE DAY (also called the FOURTH OF JULY) is celebrated on JULY 4 each year. It commemorates July 4, 1776, when the Continental Congress adopted the DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE, formally separating the thirteen American colonies from British rule. The day is observed as a FEDERAL HOLIDAY across the United States. Common traditions include: FIREWORKS displays (in towns and cities nationwide); PARADES; BARBECUES and outdoor gatherings; DISPLAYS OF THE FLAG; PATRIOTIC MUSIC and concerts; READING the Declaration of Independence aloud at public events; FAMILY GATHERINGS and picnics. The first Independence Day celebration occurred in 1777, just one year after independence was declared. The day became a federal holiday in 1870 and a paid federal holiday in 1938. The signing of the actual Declaration document took place on August 2, 1776 — but the declaration was approved by Congress on July 4, which is why that date is celebrated. Founders John Adams predicted Independence Day would be celebrated 'with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations.' Other major U.S. federal holidays include: New Year's Day (January 1), Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday in January), Memorial Day (last Monday in May), Veterans Day (November 11), Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday in November), Christmas (December 25).