Do you know why we celebrate the Fourth of July? Most of us picture fireworks, bbqs, and flags – but behind the red, white, and blue is a history full of surprises.
From a teenager’s flag design to the truth about when independence was actually declared, these seven facts might just change the way you view Independence Day.
That’s right – Congress voted for independence from Great Britain on July 2, 1776, not the 4th. So why do we celebrate two days later?
The official Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4th, which was the date printed on the document. See the National Archives’ timeline of independence for a full breakdown.
Fun Fact: John Adams believed July 2nd would be remembered as “The Great Anniversary Festival.”
The Liberty Bell hasn’t rung in over 175 years, but it still plays a role in July 4th traditions. Each year, it’s symbolically tapped 13 times to honor the original colonies.
Fun Fact: You can visit the Liberty Bell Center in Philadelphia to see it up close!
In 1958, 17-year-old Robert Heft submitted a 50-star U.S. flag design for a high school project and received a B– from his teacher.
Read more about Heft’s inspirational story from the National Flag Foundation.
Fun fact: His B– was later changed to an A after the flag was officially adopted by President Eisenhower and became the official U.S. flag!
Over 150 million hot dogs are eaten on the Fourth of July alone — more than any other day of the year.
Fun fact: That’s enough to stretch from Washington, D.C. to Los Angeles five times!
That’s right – Denmark hosts one of the largest July 4th celebrations outside of the U.S.
Each year at Rebild National Park, Danish-Americans and locals gather to honor U.S. independence, a tradition dating back to 1912.
Explore the Rebild Festival’s official site to learn more.
Despite popular belief, only John Hancock and Charles Thomson signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
Most of the other signers added their names weeks later — some as late as August!
Each year, Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks Show in New York City launches over 65,000 shells in less than 30 minutes – that’s more than 2,000 fireworks per minute!
It’s one of the largest fireworks displays in the world, watched by millions in person and online.
Find event details on the Macy’s Fireworks page.
These facts show there’s more to Independence Day than fireworks and flags. From international celebrations to little-known truths, it’s a holiday full of surprises.
Ready to make your own traditions? Explore Seven Unique Ways to Spend the 4th of July for creative, memorable ideas – whether you’re spending the day solo, celebrating with loved ones, or starting a new tradition of your own.
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