The 4th of July has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations dates all the way back to the American Revolution. Every year on July 4th, we fly our finest American Flags to celebrate our independence from Great Britain and the founding of our free nation.

Some people celebrate through parties with friends and family. Others attend annual Independence Day festivals and parades. No matter how we choose to celebrate, we do so in honor of the veterans who have fought for our freedom and continue to protect the liberties we hold dear.

From 1776 to the present day, July 4th has been celebrated in various ways throughout our nation's history. Let's explore some of the early years of celebrations and the origins of the traditions we still cherish today.

Early Year Celebrations

Before America's independence, during the pre-Revolutionary years, colonists had held annual celebrations of the king's birthday, which traditionally included the ringing of bells, bonfires, and processions. The story goes that during the summer of 1776, after the war began, some colonists celebrated the birth of independence by holding mock funerals for the King of Britain as a way of symbolizing the end of the monarchy's hold on America.

In the following years, Independence Day festivities included concerts, bonfires, parades, and the firing of cannons and muskets, usually accompanied by public readings of the Declaration of Independence. While we might not be firing off cannons anymore, this tradition evolved into setting off fireworks on the 4th of July. The first official organized firework display sparked in Philadelphia in the 1700s and from there continued to spread throughout the country.

Celebrating The 4th of July Today

This year, July 4th falls on a Friday, making it perfect for extended weekend celebrations. Since the late 19th century, the Fourth of July has become a major focus of fun activities and a great reason for family get-togethers. Even today, Americans continue the traditions of attending parades, watching fireworks, enjoying outdoor concerts, and hosting outdoor barbecues for friends and family.

To no surprise, the most common symbol of the holiday is the American flag. If you're wanting to fly a flag this 4th of July, there are plenty of outdoor and indoor American flag options to choose from. Looking for something a little more creative? Here are some other popular ways to show your patriotic spirit and wow your guests:

• Stick Flags - These are the perfect touch for parades, parties, decorations, or just something to cheer and wave around during festivities.
• Fan Flags - Perfect for decorating railings and lining tables with patriotic flair.
• Pulldown Flags - Can be used to line doorways, patios, and outdoor spaces with red, white, and blue.
• Bunting - This is another fun way to frame doorways, tables, or create perfect photo opportunities.

America's Historic 250th Anniversary Approaches

Next year, July 4th, 2026, marks America's 250th birthday – our nation's semiquincentennial celebration. This historic milestone deserves special commemoration with America's Official 250th Anniversary Flag. Don't miss your chance to own this limited-edition commemorative flag celebrating America's incredible 250-year journey.

No matter how we choose to celebrate the 4th of July, remember to always do so in honor of the veterans who have fought for our freedom and who continue to give us reason for celebration.

Happy 4th of July from our Eagle Mountain family to yours!