On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence. The Constitution provides the legal and governmental framework for the United States.

Although Philadelphians marked the first anniversary of American independence with a spontaneous celebration, observing Independence Day only became commonplace after the War of 1812. Soon, events like ground-breaking ceremonies for the Erie Canal and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad were scheduled to coincide with July 4th festivities.

In 1859, the Banneker Institute of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, urged African Americans to celebrate Independence Day while bearing witness to the inconsistencies between the ideals espoused in the Declaration of Independence and the practice of slavery.

Many Fourth of July customs have not changed since the earliest celebrations. But some communities across the nation have developed their own special traditions. Celebrants in Seward, Alaska, take part in a six-mile foot race to the top of Mount Marathon and back. Further north in Kotzebue, Alaska, traditional Inuit contests are held.

The citizens of Lititz, Pennsylvania have spent their winters since 1818 making thousands of candles so that the children of the town can light them during a special "Festival of Candles" the night of July 4.

And, on the morning of July 4, the community of Tecumseh, Nebraska, raises more than 200 flags around the courthouse as a way of remembering those who have served in our country’s armed forces. Each flagpole bears the name of a man or woman from Tecumseh who has served in the United States military.

On July 4, 1976 major celebrations throughout the country marked America’s 200th birthday. In Washington, D.C., 33 tons of fireworks were exploded in the sky above the Washington Monument, along with Laser beams that spelled out " 1776-1976, Happy Birthday, USA." In New York, a succession of tall sailing ships from all over the world sailed up the Hudson River.

Many people celebrate this day with red, white, and blue decorations and clothes; a fitting tribute to our grand flag. Today, we use parades, picnics and fireworks to honor our country's fight for freedom.

Parades, which usually begin mid-morning, are the first tradition followed each Fourth of July. The small-town parade, with baseball teams, baton twirlers and the high school marching band, is a common sight in cities across the country. Fathers hoist toddlers up on their shoulders for a clear view, while children munch popcorn and wave small flags. It's a fun, inspiring way to get into a patriotic mood.

After the parade, folks usually head home or to a relative's house for a family reunion or get-together. Although many families stay home and enjoy a relaxing day inside or in the backyard, it's also customary to spend the day at the beach or lake. Many public beaches have built in barbecues, so family and friends can enjoy hot barbecued ribs or chicken with fresh potato salad and sodas packed in the cooler.

The best is still yet to come, after the parades, the fireworks display. Fireworks are one of the oldest and most stunning ways to commemorate America's birthday. Frequently the nation's colors red, white and blue are used in these spectacular displays of patriotism. Most large cities in the United States have at least one, if not several, fireworks displays on the night of the Fourth. The crowds, the noise and the spectacular displays all combine to provide an exciting evening. Fireworks are a remarkable and satisfying conclusion to the Fourth of July holiday.