With the school year coming to an end, it is time to get excited for summer’s biggest and iconic holiday: the 4th of July, a holiday famous for its vibrant fireworks and patriotic celebrations. But beyond the festivities, 4th of July is known as the day of Independence, which marks the birth of our nation. Today we will be talking about the history, plans, outfit inspo, and popular foods for the 4th of July!

History 

The 4th of July started in 1776 when Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, but it officially became a federal holiday in 1941. Since then, the 4th of July has been celebrated as the birth of American independence. Many festivals include fireworks, barbecues, and parades during this holiday. This year, the 4th of July takes place on a Saturday!

1776 – Thomas Jefferson drafted the Deceleration of Independence, including 27 grievances against King George III, and claimed the 13 colonies, making the U.S. a sovereign nation.

1777 – The first 4th of July celebration took place in Philadelphia. There was a 13 gun salute, one for each colony. There were also parades, and the first firework show of the holiday.

1812 – Patriotic parties became more common across the U.S. following the war of 1812.

1826 – There was an intense coincidence that America’s two founding fathers passed on July 4th, 1826, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams.

1870 – Congress made the 4th of July an unpaid federal holiday for employees.

1938/1941 – Congress changed the 4th of July to a paid federal holiday in 1938.

To this day, the 4th of July is celebrated as a holiday full of festivities!

Plans for the 4th of July

The 4th offers countless ways to celebrate, from relaxing beach days and barbecues to lively concerts and festivals. While everyone has their own special traditions, here in our town of Elmwood Park, the celebration begins on the morning of the 4th with our annual parade. Make sure to keep an eye out for the EPHS dance and cheer teams and many more Elmwood Park floats. To wrap up the night, join the rest of the Elmwood Park community at EPHS, as it hosts their annual firework display. All are welcome at this event; the fireworks are perfect to watch with family and friends!

Molly’s Plan for the 4th – On the 4th, I wake up early and get ready for the parade since I am on the cheer team; we walk in the parade while doing cheers. After that, I normally hang out with my friends and family. Once it gets later, I go out to eat with my family, then I either go to my aunt’s house with my whole family or to EPHS for the firework show with my friends. This year, I plan on going to EPHS or elsewhere with my friends to watch a fireworks show. 

Oliwia’s Plan for the 4th – For the 4th of July, I plan on spending the whole day at a family friend’s house with my family. This is exciting for me as I get to spend the whole day with one of my closest friends! While there, we will all enjoy a delicious barbecue and finish it off with many desserts. We also swim in the pool and walk around town. Once it hits around 9 pm, we enjoy the beautiful sight of fireworks. 

Outfit Inspo – 

Red, white, and blue are the classic colors worn on the 4th of July to show patriotism. Depending on your plans, you can go for a more casual look with a simple tank top or shirt, in any color of red, white or blue, paired with athletic shorts. If you’re feeling fancier, a cute jean skirt paired with a tube top or tank is a perfect choice. Whether you prefer the comfort of gym shoes or sandals for a more summery vibe, make sure you finish off the look with your favorite necklaces and bracelets. There are a variety of ways to show spirit for your country, whether it’s athletic, cozy, or on the fancier side.

Popular Foods  – 

During the 4th of July, it is common for people to host a barbecue. Usually, many people cook foods like hot dogs, burgers, ribs, or BBQ chicken as their main dish. For sides, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, pickles, and chips are common. Both of us personally like barbecues due to the summer vibes and delicious taste on a summer day. Common desserts made on the 4th feature red, white, and blue themes with fresh berries, whipped cream, and festive sprinkles. Some examples include American flag cakes/pies, red/white/blue sugar cookies, star shaped cookies, and strawberry shortcake.

Whether you spend the 4th of July at a parade, beach, with friends or family, or at a firework show, this holiday is the best time to celebrate freedom while making unforgettable memories. From patriotic outfits and tasty foods to fun community events, there are endless ways to enjoy this day.

References – 

Kiger, P. J. (n.d.). Fourth of July: Independence Day Traditions | HISTORY. History.com. Retrieved April 30, 2026, from https://www.history.com/articles/july-4th

Velasquez, F. (2024, July 3). July 4th food staples are more expensive. Here’s how much prices have increased. Quartz. Retrieved May 1, 2026, from https://qz.com/july-fourth-food-item-increase-inflation-consumers-1851570277 

(n.d.).

Declaration of Independence Full Text, US Independence Day Facts. (n.d.). Constitution Facts. Retrieved May 11, 2026, from https://www.constitutionfacts.com/us-declaration-of-independence/fourth-of-july/