1) Solute to the Union
On Independence Day, at noon, military personnel fire one gun for every state—that’s all 50 of them—at different bases across the country. This “salute to the union” is a favorite tradition on this celebrated holiday. Imagine the thunderous sounds of 50 guns—one for each state—blending together in a roaring display of patriotism!
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2) The Declaration of Independence wasn’t Signed on the Fourth
It’s a common assumption that Independence Day celebrates the anniversary on which our country’s founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence. But the Declaration was not signed on July 4, 1776 like many Americans believe. Rather, it was signed on July 2, 1776. Nonetheless, July fourth has become the holiday for celebrating this monumental milestone in our country’s history.
3) New York City’s Massive Firework Display
Many cities throughout the country host spectacular fireworks displays on Independence Day. Among the most notable cities is New York City. In 2009, the Big Apple had the largest fireworks display every, igniting more than 22 tons of pyrotechnics.
4) Millions of Hot Dogs Consumed
Hot dogs are the preferred food among millions of Americans on Independence Day. According to the National Sausage and Hot Dog Council (NHDSC), Americans consume roughly 150 million hot dogs on this holiday.
5) Guinness World Record Drone Show
A company called Sky Elements got into the Guinness World Records by creating a Fourth of July drone show featuring over 1,000 drones working in unison. Watch the show:
6) Independence Day is Patriotic
There’s no better time than Independence Day to show your support for the America. Millions of individuals and families fly the American flag while also sporting red, white and blue colors.
7) Concert on the Capital Lawn
On July fourth each year, a free concert is held that precedes a fireworks display. Known as A Capital Fourth, this concert is broadcasted by PBS, NPR and the American Forces Network. Each year, it attracts more than 500,000 people who come to marvel at the concert and its following fireworks display.
8) The Declaration was Changed from “Pursuit of Property”
In the original Declaration of Independence, it stated that everyone had the right to pursuit of property. Thomas Jefferson later changed the wording, however, to the “pursuit of happiness.”
Extra: Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest
It’s not just families who enjoy hot dogs on Independence Day; there are professional eaters who compete to see who can down the most dogs. Sanctioned by the International Federation of Competitive Eating (IFCE), Nathan’s International Hot Dog Eating Contest is held annually on July fourth. It features around 20 professional eaters who consume hot dogs in a 10-minute period. The contestant who consumes the most is declared the winner.
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About the author
Barry Mason is a proud third-generation American whose grandfather served in World War II. Born and raised in small-town Tennessee, Barry developed a deep appreciation for American history and traditions from an early age, learning about the sacrifices made by previous generations. Barry has spent over a decade writing about flag etiquette, patriotic traditions, military history, and the stories behind America's most cherished symbols. When he's not researching the fascinating history of Old Glory, you can find Barry volunteering at veterans' events, coaching youth baseball, or exploring America's national parks with his family. A firm believer in supporting American manufacturing and small businesses, Barry is passionate about celebrating the craftspeople who keep American traditions alive. He lives with his wife and two children in a home where the American flag flies proudly every day. Favorite quote: "Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction." - Ronald Reagan
