Each summer, Americans celebrate the anniversary of our nation’s birth on Independence Day. On July 4th, 1776, the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence. This revolutionary document created by the thirteen colonies announced that they were free from British rule. From the beginning, Americans marked the birth of the holiday with speeches, music, parades, and public readings of the Declaration. Artillery salutes were a key feature of the early Independence Day celebrations but were stopped when cannons fell out of use in the late 1800’s. The United States Congress first authorized pyrotechnics as part of 4th of July celebrations in 1777. Today, more than 14,000 fireworks displays go off across the nation every July 4th. The largest celebration is the Macy’s 4th of July Spectacular in New York City. Approximately 75,000 pounds of fireworks go off during the half-hour show that is attended by roughly 2 million people. In 1941, Congress made Independence Day a Federal Holiday. It is one of 4 Federal holidays along with New Year’s Day, Veterans Day, and Christmas Day that are celebrated on the same calendar date each year.
Many of us will celebrate the Fourth of July by watching hometown parades, hosting or attending backyard barbecues, and enjoying colorful firework displays. However, we need to remember, through all the fun, why this day is so important. This day honors and celebrates the birth of our nation and the anniversary of the approval of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Hundreds of years later, the Fourth of July remains important, as a day to pay tribute to the United States of America—our laws, heritage, history, and people. Though many other retail stores will be open on Independence Day, we will be closed Tuesday, July 4th, to ensure our team members can enjoy spending the day with family and friends, celebrating our nation’s independence.
May you enjoy the blessings of freedom and independence this Fourth of July and every day.
