How do Americans celebrate Independence Day?

Every year on 4 July people across the United States celebrate Independence Day.

It's a time when Americans remember the day in 1776 when the country declared its independence from Britain.

It's a big, colourful holiday filled with fun traditions that bring families and communities together.

Here are five ways Americans celebrate the Fourth of July!

Independence Day Fireworks

While Brits mark summer with Glastonbury, Wimbledon, and the occasional BBQ, Americans go all in on 4 July festivities.

Fireworks are probably the most famous part of Independence Day.

Skies across the country explode with colour.

Cities like New York, the capital city Washington DC, and Boston put on huge displays, often set to music.

On the other side of the country, Huntington Beach, a laid-back surf town in sunny Southern California throws what's widely considered the biggest Independence Day celebration on the US West Coast, drawing hundreds of thousands to its coastline for a full day (and night) of fireworks, and beach vibes.

Families also buy smaller fireworks or sparklers to use in their backyards -a bit like bonfire night here in the UK, without the bonfire.

Parades

Fourth of July parade held in Anchorage, Alaska in 2024

Parades are a big part of the day, especially in small towns and neighbourhoods.

You'll see marching bands, military veterans, floats decorated in red, white, and blue, and even children riding bikes with streamers and flags.

Some parades, like the one in Bristol, Rhode Island, have been happening for over 200 years! People line the streets to wave flags and cheer.

Music and concerts

Live music is everywhere on the 4 July. Cities host free outdoor concerts where people bring blankets and picnic baskets to enjoy the show.

In Washington DC, there's a famous concert called "A Capitol Fourth" held on the lawn of the U.S. Capitol building.

It features pop stars, classical musicians, and ends with a big fireworks finale.

Lots of people watch it live on TV too.

Sports

July fourth themed batting gear worn by Jeff McNeil of the New York Mets.

Sports are a fun part of the holiday, especially baseball—often called "America's pastime."

Many Major League Baseball teams play special games on the Fourth of July.

Fans often wear patriotic gear to support their teams.

Reenactments

If you've ever wondered what it's like to travel back in time to 1776, Williamsburg is where America's Independence Day goes full-on time machine.

On the 4 July, Colonial Williamsburg, a living-history museum in the Virginia town, transforms into an 18th-century celebration with actors in wigs.

You'll hear booming cannons and dramatic public readings of the Declaration of Independence.