Independence Day is a federal holiday in the United States ?? commemorating the Declaration of Independence, which was ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America.
Independence Day is a national holiday marked by patriotic displays. Per 5 U.S.C. § 6103, Independence Day is a federal holiday, so all non-essential federal institutions are closed on that day. While the legal holiday remains on July 4, if that date happens to be on a Saturday or Sunday, then federal government employees will instead take the day off on the adjacent Friday or Monday, respectively. Many people use what is often a three-day holiday weekend for extended vacation trips.
Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks?, parades, barbecues?, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts?, baseball⚾ games, family??? reunions, political speeches, and ceremonies.
Decorations are generally colored red?, white⬜, and blue?, the colors of the American flag??. For example streamers?, balloons?, and clothing?.
Families often celebrate Independence Day by hosting or attending a picnic or barbecue
Parades are often held in the morning, before family get-togethers, while fireworks displays occur in the evening after dark at such places as parks, sporting venues, fairgrounds, public shorelines, or town squares.