This Fourth of July countdown tracks the days, hours and minutes until Independence Day in the United States, celebrated on July 4 every year. The next one falls on Sunday, July 4, 2027. It is a federal holiday marking the day in 1776 when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, and the unofficial high point of American summer, with fireworks, parades and backyard barbecues from coast to coast.
Why July 4 and not July 2?
The Second Continental Congress actually voted for independence on July 2, 1776, by approving the Lee Resolution. John Adams was so sure that date would be remembered that he predicted it would be celebrated for generations with parades, bonfires and illuminations. Two days later, on July 4, Congress adopted the final text of the Declaration, drafted mainly by Thomas Jefferson. That is the date printed on the document, so it is the one Americans celebrate.
History added some remarkable coincidences. Adams and Jefferson, the only two signers who went on to become president, both died on July 4, 1826, exactly 50 years after the Declaration was adopted. James Monroe died on July 4, 1831, and Calvin Coolidge was born on July 4, 1872.
Federal holiday rules
Congress made Independence Day a holiday for federal employees in 1870. When July 4 falls on a Saturday, the federal holiday is observed on Friday, July 3; when it falls on a Sunday, it is observed on Monday, July 5. Banks, post offices and government offices close, and many businesses follow suit, while stores and restaurants usually stay open. Fireworks and parades, however, almost always stick to July 4 itself.
Classic ways to celebrate
- Fireworks: the Macy’s show in New York City is the country’s largest, but nearly every town has a display after dark.
- Parades: Bristol, Rhode Island, claims the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration, dating back to 1785.
- Food: burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, potato salad and anything red, white and blue.
- Competitions: Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest at Coney Island is a holiday fixture.
- Readings: some towns and libraries hold public readings of the Declaration.
Planning tips for the holiday
- Book travel early, because the holiday weekend is one of the busiest of the summer on roads and at airports.
- Check local fireworks laws; rules for consumer fireworks vary widely between states and towns.
- Scout a viewing spot for public displays and arrive before sunset.
- Keep pets indoors during fireworks and make sure their ID tags are up to date.
- Pack sunscreen and water for daytime parades and picnics.
Hosting a party? Put this timer on the big screen with full-screen mode, or embed it on your community website. Other summer dates worth counting down to include Memorial Day, the summer solstice and Labor Day.