Hip Hip Hooray! It’s Independence Day!

Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July or July 4th, is a U.S. federal holiday celebrating America’s independence from Great Britain in the 18th century.

On July 2nd, 1776, the United States Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later, delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence. Since that day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, and was recognized as a federal holiday in 1941.

Traditionally, July 4th has been celebrated throughout the years with fireworks, parades, concerts like A Capitol Fourth, which PBS has presented for over 40 years, and family gatherings like barbecues and cook-outs.

This July 4th, while we celebrate American independence, let’s learn about the origins of our nation, taking time to discuss how we can continue to work toward freedom and equality for all. Check out the activities, crafts, and resources below to learn what the Fourth of July really means!

Activities, Crafts & More

Fourth of July Rockets

Grades K-5
Get ready for the Fourth of July with these fun Independence Day rocket decorations using some basic supplies and recyclables.

Independence Day | All About the Holidays

Grades K-5
It’s the Fourth of July! Learn about the history of our country’s most famous birthday, and discover why we celebrate Independence Day the way we do today.

Make a Paper Plate Fan to Celebrate the Fourth of July

Grades K-5
Create a Fourth of July craft that can keep you cool! Make this easy paper plate fan while you talk with your child about America’s history.

Children’s Books for the Fourth of July

Grades PreK-6
Celebrate this Fourth of July with fireworks, flags and the Founding Fathers! From the well-known George Washington and John Adams, to Sybil Ludington’s midnight ride, this collection of books brings history and festivity to kids ages 0-12.

Create Your Own Documentary: The Declaration of Independence | New Jersey: Then and Now

Grades 6-12
What is the significance of The Declaration of Independence? How has it shaped the United States of America? Create a documentary to inform viewers about the document that built the foundation for the United States of America using professional footage from the archives of the New Jersey Network. In this resource, students will research a topic, write a script, and add voice-over narration to produce their own educational content. 

Crash Course US History Collection

Grades 9-12
The Crash Course US History Collection is a series of 47 videos all about the history of the United States — from the beginning of the Spanish colonization to the Obama Administration. Kick off this July 4th by learning about the beginnings of our nation, from the Prelude to the Revolution, to Who Won the American Revolution, and The Constitution, Articles of Confederation, and Federalism.


Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *