Independence Day / July 4th

While it's debated when the Declaration of Independence was actually signed (July 2 or July 4) it separated us from the British. The holiday has been observed/celebrated every year since 1777 in various ways. In 1777 there was a 13-gun salute in the morning and the evening along with a state dinner for Continental Congress that included the 12-gun salute, prayers, music, parades, and fireworks among other things. Great way to celebrate freedom in my opinion.

It wasn't until 1870 that Congress made July 4th a federal holiday although it was unpaid. Congress eventually changed it to a paid holiday in 1938.

July 4th is celebrated using some of the same events on that first night in 1777 - food, family, friends, music, and fireworks. Wearing the US flag on various clothing has also become a thing and it is not against any law as I've often heard.

I wanted to verify that so I Googled the question and was pointed to the American Legion to their questions page. Below are the question and answer which can also be found on their page - here.

Question: 

Is it permissible to wear an item of clothing that looks like the United States flag?

Answer: 

Unless an article of clothing is made from an actual United States flag, there is NO breach of flag etiquette whatsoever. People are simply expressing their patriotism and love of country by wearing an article of clothing that happens to be red, white, and blue with stars and stripes. There is nothing illegal about the wearing or use of these items.

So go forth and celebrate our Independence with family, friends, music, food, and of course fireworks.

Don't forget to wear your American Flag t-shirt.