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 the 4th of July, we fly our best American Flags to celebrate our independence from Great Britain and the start of a free life for all Americans. 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.From 1776 to the present day, July 4th has been celebrated one way or another. Take a look at some of the early years of celebrations and the origins of the traditions that we still see today.

Early Year Celebrations

Before America’s independence, in 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, during the summer of 1776, after the war, 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 even firing cannons and muskets usually accompanied public readings of the Declaration of Independence.

We might not be firing off cannons anymore, but the tradition soon turned into setting off fireworks on the 4th of July. The first official organized firework 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 Tuesday. 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 have still carried the traditions of going to parades, watching fireworks, 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, check out some outdoor American Flag outside options or some indoorAmerican Flag options. Looking for something a little more creative? Here are some other popular ways to show your support and wow your guests!

• Stick Flags - These are the perfect touch for parades, parties, decorations, or just something to cheer and wave around.
• Fan Flags - Perfect for railing and lining tables with.
• Pulldown Flags - Can be used to line doorways, patios, and more.
• Bunting - This is another fun way to frame any doorways, tables, or fun photo ops.

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 have given us the reason for celebration.

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