July 4th is America’s birthday. The United States will be 240 years old. On this day in 1776,
leaders of the 13 British colonies approved the Declaration of independence.
There are community picnics and parades in many towns. Some towns have races and contests
for children. Community leaders make speeches.
People learn stories about American history. Some people have picnics or barbecues in their
back yards. Many people go to beaches. In the evening, there are band concerts and fireworks.
The fourth of July is a very noisy holiday. You may hear firecrackers all day long. (However,
fireworks are illegal in many states.) Firefighters or other experts manage town fireworks.
