4th of July is not just fireworks and barbecue. This is a day that unites Americans, reminds of freedom and inspires to celebrate together. Discover the most interesting traditions and facts related to this unique day!
History of 4th of July – Where did this holiday come from?
4th of July, or United States Independence Day, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on 4 July 1776. It was then that thirteen colonies declared independence from Britain, starting a new chapter in American history.
Curiosity: Most signatories did not sign the Declaration until August, but it is on July 4 that is on the document as the official date of birth of freedom.
How do Americans celebrate the 4th of July?
Parades, flags and community
All over the United States there are colorful parades in which orchestras, veterans, firefighters and local communities participate. The streets adorn the flags, and the atmosphere resembles a great family picnic.
Grill, hot dogs and culinary symbols
There is no 4th of July without a barbecue! The Americans eat more than 150 million hot dogs that day, and the tables bend from hamburgers, corn and cakes in the colors of the US flag. It's a feast of taste and sharing.
List of the most popular 4th of July dishes:
- Hot dogs
- Burgers
- BBQ corn
- Cakes with berries and strawberries (often flag-shaped)
- Lemonade and beer
Fireworks – Christmas culmination
In the evening, the sky lights up thousands of fireworks. The largest show takes place in New York City, where more than 75,000 pounds of explosives are consumed. This is a spectacle that attracts millions of viewers and symbolizes the joy of freedom.
4th of July in numbers
| Fact. | Number / Date |
|---|---|
| Number of hot dogs eaten on 4 July | 150 million |
| Number of new U.S. citizens that day | approx. 10,000 |
| Smallest city with parade | Bonanza, Oregon – 80 people |
| The US flag has been redesigned several times | 27 |
| Most played song | "Born in the USA" |
Trivia That Few Know
- Three U.S. presidents died on 4 July: John Adams, Thomas Jefferson (exactly on the 50th anniversary of the declaration of independence) and James Monroe.
- The Philippines celebrated July 4 as their Independence Day until 1962.
- Every year about 12,000 people get injured by fireworks – safety is the basis!
4th of July is a holiday that combines tradition with modernity. This is the day when Americans – and not only them – celebrate freedom, community and joy of life.
