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
The Fourth of July | Let’s Go Luna!
Grades PreK-2
Happy Independence Day! Join Luna, Leo, Carmen, and Andy on a virtual field trip to Boston to learn about the holiday’s history.
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.
Popsicle Stick American Flag
Grades K-5
Make these mini American flags at home for a great Fourth of July craft that kids will enjoy.
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.
We Hold These Truths to Be Self Evident: Analyzing the Declaration of Independence
Grades 6-12
Empower students to reflect on the power of their own words and ideas on equality and freedom with this lesson on PBS LearningMedia. Examine, analyze and critique The Declaration of Independence, along with song lyrics and the poem Amanda Gorman read at President Biden’s inaugural address, to reflect on the power of words in our country. Then reflect on ways that ideas and words used to express equality and liberty during the time the Declaration of Independence was written may have had a different meaning in society than they do today.
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.