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US celebrates 249 years of independence

Friday, 04 Jul, 2025
July 4 celebrations at the US Embassy in Pristina, Kosovo. (Photo courtesy: X@USEmbPristina)

New York: The United States marks its 249th anniversary of independence on July 4, 2025, commemorating the nation’s official break from British rule in 1776. Declared a federal holiday in 1941, Independence Day remains one of the most important national observances, honoring the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress.

From New York to Los Angeles, Americans are celebrating with fireworks, parades, concerts, and classic backyard barbecues. Towns and cities are adorned in red, white, and blue, reflecting pride in American heritage and unity.

Washington, DC hosts the annual National Independence Day Parade, while local events across all 50 states bring communities together. The America250 initiative plans a historic semi-quincentennial celebration. Preparations are underway for national events, historical exhibitions, and educational programs to mark this once-in-a-generation moment.

According to USA Today, banks, government offices, post offices, and the stock market will be closed. However, most big-box retailers and grocery chains will operate with regular or slightly adjusted holiday hours.